Making a Difference

Educators specializing in developmental disabilities promote independence, productivity and inclusion into the community for the child. These experts provide personalized instruction using skills in assessing intellectual ability, adaptive behavior, academic achievement and functional skills.

Developmental disability professionals need an appreciation of the theoretical and practical knowledge in the field. They also need to understand how organizations providing support and advocacy services can be of assistance to the family and the child.

St. Thomas prepares professional, effective teachers in special education with traditional coursework and a practicum in a real-world educational setting.

The St. Thomas Difference

Courses in the program are conveniently scheduled late afternoons or evenings, summer days and summer evenings. If you are interested in pursing more than one licensure, the areas have some courses in common, leading to ease in attaining multiple licensure.

Other licensures available at St. Thomas include: Learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders and early childhood special education.

Students may apply for licensure-only programs or for acceptance into the Master of Arts degree in Special Education program. Undergraduate students may enroll in some coursework in each license area.

The state of Minnesota approves license programs for special education personnel, and St. Thomas recommends qualified candidates for those licenses. Specific licensure programs have been submitted to and approved by the state. Any variance from that approved program also must be approved by the state. This places upon the department a responsibility for specific, high-quality special education programs.

Special education professionals are prepared to:

•  Address current literature and issues in special education.
•  Implement appropriate identification and due-process standards.
•  Design, field test and evaluate appropriate instructional strategies and methodologies.
•  Provide direct service and consultation.
•  Work as partners with families.
•  Collaborate with professionals across disciplines.
• Collaborate with family agencies, community services and professional organizations.