Teach Students with Disabilities | Early & Childhood Program
Dobbs Ferry (Main Campus 66 acres), Manhattan, Bronx, United States
M.S. in Teaching Students with Disabilities | Early Childhood & Childhood Program
Mercy University
Special Education
Program Overview: Teaching Students with Disabilities (Early Childhood & Childhood)
The 42-credit M.S. in Teaching Students with Disabilities in Early Childhood and Childhood at Mercy University prepares graduates to become highly qualified special education teachers for students from birth through grade six. The program leads to either initial or professional certification in two areas of special education: birth through grade two, and grades one through six.
Coursework focuses intensely on the needs of students with special needs, covering instructional strategies, assessment, literacy, and inclusive classroom practices. Mercy University's School of Education was the first institution in the United States to receive initial national accreditation from NCATE and its successor, CAEP, ensuring the highest standards in educator preparation.
Graduates are prepared to practice in inclusive, integrated, and self-contained classroom settings, as well as in homes and communities. Whether you are seeking your initial teaching certificate or advancing to professional certification with prior classroom experience, this program equips you with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young learners with disabilities.
Key Program Highlights
- Dual New York State certification covering birth through grade 2 and grades 1 through 6 in special education
- CAEP-accredited School of Education with nationally recognized special education programs
- Comprehensive 42-credit curriculum with intensive focus on the needs of students with disabilities
- Option for triple certification by adding Early Childhood Education certification
Curriculum & Course Modules
The 42-credit curriculum is designed to build deep expertise in special education pedagogy, assessment, and inclusive teaching practices for early childhood and childhood learners. Courses blend theoretical foundations with hands-on clinical experience, preparing you to serve diverse learners in a variety of educational settings.
Foundations of Special Education
3 CreditsExplores the historical, legal, and philosophical foundations of special education, including federal and state mandates, disability categories, and the role of the special educator in inclusive settings.
Instruction for Students with Disabilities
3 CreditsFocuses on evidence-based instructional strategies and methods for teaching students with a wide range of disabilities in early childhood and childhood settings, including differentiated instruction and Universal Design for Learning.
Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education
3 CreditsCovers formal and informal assessment tools and techniques used to identify, evaluate, and monitor the progress of students with disabilities, including IEP development and data-driven decision making.
Literacy Instruction for Diverse Learners
3 CreditsAddresses research-based approaches to literacy instruction for students with disabilities, including reading intervention strategies, writing process instruction, and literacy development across the early childhood and childhood spectrum.
Behavior Management and Positive Supports
3 CreditsExamines strategies for identifying, anticipating, and managing individual and group behavior issues in special education and inclusive classroom environments, with emphasis on positive behavioral interventions and supports.
Student Teaching and Clinical Practice
6 CreditsProvides supervised field experience in special education settings where candidates apply knowledge, skills, and dispositions to real classroom situations, working with students with disabilities from birth through grade six.
Elective & Specialization Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.S. in Teaching Students with Disabilities program at Mercy University is designed for candidates with a strong academic background and a commitment to special education. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu, your dedicated partner for a seamless admissions experience.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution is required
- GPA RequirementA competitive undergraduate GPA is expected; contact Uni4Edu for specific minimum requirements
- Effective Educator StatementApplicants must submit a personal statement demonstrating their commitment to becoming an effective educator
- Prior Certification (Professional Track)Professional certification candidates must hold an initial teaching certificate and three years of classroom teaching experience
- Background CheckFingerprinting and completion of required workshops (DASA, Child Abuse, Violence Prevention) are needed for NYS certification
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum band score requirements
- Duolingo English TestContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Mercy University offers a range of financial support options for graduate students. Donor-funded endowed scholarships, alumni assistance awards, and federal financial aid programs are available to help make your graduate education more affordable. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding your studies.
Mercy University Endowed Graduate Scholarships
Varies by awardMercy University offers donor-funded endowed scholarships for students enrolled in graduate programs. These awards vary in amount and criteria, and students can apply through the Mercy University Endowed Scholarship Application.
Mercy/CNR Alumni Assistance Scholarship
USD 1,000 one-time awardAvailable to Mercy University and College of New Rochelle undergraduate alumni and their dependents who are enrolling in a Mercy graduate program for the first time. This one-time scholarship supports the transition into graduate studies.
Federal Financial Aid and Loan Programs
Varies based on eligibilityEligible students may access Federal Direct Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans to help cover the cost of tuition and course-related expenses. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to determine your eligibility for federal aid.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Special Education Graduates
Special education is one of the most in-demand fields in education, with a consistent need for qualified teachers across the United States. Graduates of this program earn dual New York State certification, qualifying them to teach in public schools where salaries are typically higher than in private school settings. The specialized training you receive prepares you for a rewarding career making a direct impact on the lives of children with disabilities.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Mercy University is a private institution founded in 1950 and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Its School of Education holds CAEP accreditation and was the first institution in the United States to receive initial national accreditation from NCATE. The university is consistently recognized for its commitment to social mobility and accessible education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Universities North | U.S. News & World Report | #116 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #28 |
| Education (CAEP Accreditation) | CAEP / NCATE | First U.S. institution to receive initial NCATE accreditation |
| Nursing (Best Undergraduate Program) | U.S. News & World Report | #392 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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