Female Teacher reading with boy in a wheelchair

Special education teacher programs

We have multiple pathways to help you secure a teaching career in special education. Choose to earn your initial licensure or add-on licensure through accelerated 8-week online courses.

From your bachelor's to your master's degree, we offer multiple special education licensures to fit your interests and your calling to serve students with special needs.

From licensure to degrees in special education, we offer accelerated courses in an online format. 

Program pathways

Initial Bachelor's

I have not yet completed a bachelor's program in any subject area.

Post-Bachelor's Initial License

I have a bachelor's degree in a non-education related field, and I need to earn my initial teaching license.

Add-on License

I have my teaching license,
and want to add-on a special education licensure. 

Find the information you need

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Personal

Small classes are led by expert faculty who are
practicing teachers & administrators 

Fully Online
100%
Student Teach

In-person student teaching and observation hours
will build your skills and confidence.

male special education teacher help student with scissors

Add-on SPED licensure

For individuals that hold a valid and current teaching license

Enhance your skillsets and knowledge in cross-categorical special education to better teach and lead K-12 students with specific disabilities and special needs. Learn to develop inclusive classrooms and effective learning strategies for the following individuals:

  • Intellectual disabilities (ID)
  • Specific learning disabilities (SLD)
  • Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities (EBD)
Did you know?

There are options in this program to earn your licensure only in as little as one year. Or complete your master's in special education in two years. 

Funding your education

Concordia's payment plan allows you to break tuition into automatic monthly payments

Scholarships and financial aid are available for qualifying students

Ways to Save

Frequently asked questions

Students pursuing an add-on Wisconsin licensure will need a teaching license.

If you wish to pursue an initial teaching license or degree only, a teaching license is not required.

In short, yes! Below is an overview of our generous credit-transfer policy.

For undergraduate students:

Up to 84 undergraduate courses may transfer in.

For post-baccalaureate CAPTL students:

Up to 6 graduate credits that meet the necessary criteria within the last 7 years.

For add-on licensure/master's degree students:

Up to 50% of the required coursework may be transferred in, which is up to the discretion of the program director.