Make a Difference in a Meaningful Career with a Special Education Degree from Gannon University
Outstanding teachers are themselves products of an outstanding education. They come from preparation in a program that rewards academic achievement, emphasizes the importance of each child as an individual, and is grounded in a mastery of the theories of learning and education. Become a positive force of educational change and impact in your community when you earn your special education degree from Gannon University.
- 100%All School of Education graduates certified in special education have obtained teaching positions in the past three years.
- A+Our Early Reading program is one of a few nationwide that earned a score of “A” from the National Council on Teaching Quality.
- Learn from faculty who collectively have more than 70 years of experience in an array of school settings and certification areas.
Learn to Lead the Way in Special Education
- Receive a solid foundation in child and adolescent development and learning theory, as well as instructional strategies in content areas with a concentrated focus on special education services.
- Gain practical, hands-on application of knowledge with a diverse student population across all socioeconomic levels and cultural groups.
- Choose a dual enrollment option with early childhood education or pursue courses that lead to an English as a Second Language certification or Autism Spectrum Disorders Endorsement.
Experience an Exceptional Learning Environment
- Study at Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland, and experience special education through a cultural lens.
- Observe and explore unique educational settings in the Erie area, such as the Barber National Institute and Hope on Horseback - an equine-assisted therapy program - all centrally located near Gannon.
- Enjoy access to a model classroom and resource rooms equipped with a wide variety of teacher resources to support you as you develop lesson plans and prepare for field experiences.
Inspire Your Academic Success
Gain real-world knowledge through key special education courses including:
Literacy for Students with Exceptionalities PreK-12: Research, select, develop and practice instructional strategies to enhance literacy development of children with exceptionalities. Includes a 30-hour field experience.
Low Incidence Disabilities: Learn about specific issues related to a variety of significant disabilities that are included in the general category of low incidence. Includes a 90-hour field experience.
Methods and Materials for Teaching English as
a Second Language/Teaching English Language
Learners: Explore and practice traditional and innovative methodologies for teaching language skills to non-native speakers PreK-12.
Achieve Your Possibilities
Our special education program is designed for your success. Through curriculum flexibility and high-quality educational opportunities, you can:
- Participate in fieldwork experience beginning your first year and gain more than 400 hours working in educational settings prior to student teaching.
- Gain the foundational knowledge and skills needed to obtain a career as an autistic support educator, English as a Second Language teacher, reading or math coach or specialist, special education supervisor, or special education transition coordinator.
- Earn an annual median salary of $61,820, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.