Make a difference in the lives of students with special needs by majoring in special education.
Unlock the power to transform lives and shape unique stories as a special education major at USD. Embrace the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of exceptional individuals. Whether pursuing a major solely in special education or pairing it with elementary or secondary education, you'll emerge as a versatile leader ready to excel in diverse classroom settings. Throughout this comprehensive four-year journey, including a full year of immersive teacher residency, you'll gain invaluable hands-on experiences that will distinguish you in your career path.
Follow your passion for empowering students with special needs by choosing our dynamic special education program.
With this degree, you'll earn eligibility for a K-12 Special Education endorsement for a South Dakota Teaching Certificate. Our specialized program equips you with the skills and real-world experiences essential to becoming a K-12 teacher and innovator in the field of special education.
This unique double major not only equips you with the expertise to support and instruct students with special needs but also positions you as an exceptional candidate for sought-after teaching roles in high-demand areas. You can graduate in four years and earn a South Dakota Teaching Certificate with Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education endorsements.
With a double major in Secondary and Special Education, you can still graduate in four years and gain the expertise to instruct special education students in your content area. You will have numerous career opportunities, as a highly valuable teacher with a South Dakota Teaching Certificate with Secondary Education and K-12 Special Education endorsements.
You can choose an accelerated option when specializing in advanced specialist in disabilities. If you are a current USD undergraduate student who would like to begin a master's degree while completing your bachelor's degree, you may apply and begin the program after the completion of 90 undergraduate credit hours.
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As a student at USD, the opportunities available to you extend beyond the classroom. Explore your interests, find your community and experience your education to the fullest extent through the following opportunities.
There are plenty of ways you can get involved as a student in the School of Education at USD. Whether you want to serve the community of Vermillion, work with children who have special needs, promote literacy or explore another interest related to education, you'll be able to find the right organization for you.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children and the National Education Association are professional organizations for educators. Connect with a wide network of teachers and be an advocate for students in one of these organizations.
Enrich your education and see the world by participating in one of our many study abroad experiences. Here are a few benefits of studying abroad during your time at USD.
A unique part of your USD education is access to undergraduate research opportunities. As an education student at USD, you will have the chance to explore your interests and conduct innovative research with the support of professors who care about your success. Grants and travel funding are available through the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.
The Division of Teacher Residency & Education is focused on preparing effective, responsive teachers who can meet the needs of all students in today's schools. Through unique features such as a robust yearlong residency, an emphasis on technology and curriculum that recognizes a variety of learners, our division offers an enriching education for educators and leaders.
Learn more about tuition and fees for undergraduate students and see how your out-of-pocket costs at USD compare to those at other colleges and universities. Visit the Undergraduate Tuition & Costs Detailed page for program specific costs and fees.
Navigating options for how to pay for college can be challenging, but you are not alone. The Office of Financial Aid will work with you and your family to explore how you can make your college education even more affordable.
USD awards nearly $9.5 million in scholarships each year. View our scholarships to see which ones you may qualify for and how you can apply.
My yearlong residency was extremely beneficial when working towards my ELED/SPED double major. It gave me the opportunity to be in an Elementary Resource Special Ed classroom, a High School Low Functioning Special Ed classroom, and a Middle School General Ed classroom. This let me look at every level of a K-12 education before I chose what level I wanted to teach.
Mason Rogers
