Five-Year Accelerated BS+MS in Special Education

The Accelerate Central Pathway in Special Education is designed to address the national shortage of qualified special education professionals and teachers. It includes all necessary coursework to meet state certification requirements, ensuring that students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to be “learner-ready, day one” teachers. The program also focuses on developing problem-solving and resilience skills essential for a career in special education. 

The undergraduate portion of the program provides a strong interdisciplinary foundation. Combined with an early and comprehensive approach to practice-based preparation, including three supervised practicum and a student teaching experience, this program ensures candidates are well-prepared to meet the needs of PK-12 schools. 

Students begin their field experiences in PK-12 schools in their second undergraduate year. 

Students may apply for admission to the Five-Year Accelerated BS/MS program or choose to complete only a bachelor’s degree in Special Education. Those opting for the five-year program can begin taking 500-level courses in their fourth undergraduate year. By the end of their fourth year, students will earn a bachelor’s degree and be eligible for Connecticut state certification. 

Completing the fifth year leads to a master’s degree in Special Education. 

Learning Outcomes

• Learning Outcome #1 (CEC Standard 2 & 3): Demonstrate knowledge of human development and specialized curricula to design developmentally appropriate learning experiences that address the unique strengths and needs of students with exceptionalities.
• Learning Outcome #2 (CEC Standard 2 & 6): Create safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environments by implementing effective routines and preventive practices that support students' social-emotional and educational well-being.
• Learning Outcome #3 (CEC Standard 4): Use multiple measures of assessment and data-based decision-making to collaboratively evaluate student learning and adjust instruction to improve academic and behavioral outcomes.
• Learning Outcome #4 (CEC Standard 5): Design and deliver specialized, individualized instruction using explicit strategies and flexible grouping to facilitate significant learning for all students, including those with high-intensity support needs.
• Learning Outcome #5 (CEC Standard 3 & 5): Augment the general education curriculum with evidence-based literacy and language strategies to ensure students with disabilities can access and master core content.
• Learning Outcome #6 (CEC Standard 1 & 7): Practice within ethical and legal guidelines while collaborating with families, paraprofessionals, and colleagues to advocate for improved outcomes and advance the profession.

Program Features

• Classes offered on-campus with hybrid options
• All faculty teaching in the program have PK-12 special education experience 

Did you know?

The Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) identifies certification shortage areas each year based on the vacancies reported by public school districts. Special education is on the list every single year. 

Source: Connecticut Department of Education