Students With Disabilities
Are you interested in working with diverse students in a variety of school settings? Molloy University’s students with disabilities undergraduate program offers foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the field. We prepare you for Students With Disabilities certification in NY, equipping you to work in inclusive and specialized settings across grade levels. With a focus on adaptive strategies and inclusive teaching, you’ll be ready to help students reach their fullest potential.
At Molloy, you will earn a dual degree that allows you to work as a special education teacher and in another certification area. You can opt to pursue a degree as an adolescent teacher (grades 7 to 12) or childhood teacher (grades 1 to 6). Both lead to initial New York teaching certification.
About the Students With Disabilities Certification Program
Our special education teacher degree program empowers you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to support the academic and social-emotional growth of all students. Dive into immersive opportunities like:
- Three phases of supervised fieldwork for real-world application
- Authentic in-classroom and community experiences that make a difference
- Collaborative, project-based learning to build teamwork and problem-solving skills
- Community outreach projects that foster meaningful connections and social impact
Our unique dual degree programs train you to work as a special education teacher and as an instructor in your chosen grade level and subject matter. Through coursework, field experiences, workshops, and research projects that provide authentic learning experiences, you will be prepared for initial New York teaching certification.
Childhood education (grades 1 to 6) programs include:
- Biology/Special Education
- Communications/Special Education
- English/Special Education
- History/Special Education
- Mathematics/Special Education
- Psychology/Special Education
- Spanish/Special Education
Adolescent education (grades 7 to 12) specializations include:
- Biology/Special Education
- Earth Science/Special Education
- English/Special Education
- Mathematics/Special Education
- Social Studies/Special Education
- Spanish/Special Education
Benefits of Molloy’s SWD Certification Programs
Flexible and Hybrid Learning Options
We want to make sure that everyone interested in becoming a teacher has access to the education they need to make that dream a reality. That is why we have designed our special education teacher degree program with flexibility for busy schedules. Courses are offered in a variety of modalities, including hybrid, asynchronous, and in-person.
Research-Driven Curriculum
Our SWD certification curriculum is rooted in evidence-based pedagogy and the latest research. From adaptive teaching methods to a technology-integrated curriculum, our program ensures you can engage and inspire all learners.
Transformative, Real-World Experiences
Participate in life-changing opportunities through partnerships like the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation regional grant, which provides free social-emotional and English language arts enrichment to local schools. You can apply for scholarships to be part of this rewarding initiative, working to overcome barriers and foster equity in education.
Learn From Leading Special Education Teachers
Our faculty includes top special education teachers, acclaimed researchers, and best-selling authors. With small class sizes, you’ll receive personalized mentorship and guidance from professors who stay by your side even after graduation. Plus, you’ll have the chance to collaborate on innovative research that elevates your skills and career prospects.
You will have two faculty advisors: one from education and one from your content area. Together they will guide you through your coursework to successfully complete your degree and help you plan your next steps after graduation.
Strong Partnerships With Local Schools
To qualify for the New York State Students With Disabilities certificate, you must have experience in a “high-needs” school. Many of our partner districts meet this designation and are eager to hire graduates of our Students with Disabilities program, opening doors to impactful careers right in your community.
Work as a Special Education Teacher
When you earn Students With Disabilities certification in NY, you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with diverse learning needs. As a special education teacher, you can:
- Empower students to reach their potential: You will provide individualized support to help students overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve personal and academic growth. Watching students develop their skills and reach milestones is incredibly rewarding.
- Advocate for inclusion and equity: You can play a critical role in advocating for fair and inclusive education, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support they deserve. It’s a profession that champions equal opportunities and builds a more inclusive society.
- Build strong, lasting relationships: Working closely with students, families, and support staff allows special education teachers to develop meaningful connections. These relationships provide essential support networks for students and foster a strong sense of community.
- Enjoy diverse career paths: Because you will earn a dual degree from Molloy University, you will be equipped to work as a special education teacher or in another area where you have earned New York teaching certification.
- Make a lasting difference: You will have the unique opportunity to change lives, helping students build skills that empower them throughout life. Your work extends beyond academics; you will promote social and emotional growth that impacts students’ futures.
There are always openings for special education teachers, and Molloy students enjoy strong career placement.