Special Education
Bachelor of Science in Education
Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
People with learning, developmental and other disabilities benefit from teachers who understand them. Our program will prepare you to help individuals with disabilities from kindergarten through age 21 learn, grow and thrive. It’s a fulfilling and in-demand career that allows you to have a major impact on people’s lives.
During eighth grade, I was introduced to the world of special education, and I immediately fell in love. Throughout high school, I continued down this path, eventually taking it to the college level.”
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Did You Know?
Special education majors can gain hands-on experience in our Assistive Technology Lab and Vision Disabilities Technology Lab.
What Can I Do With an Special Education Degree From NIU?
Your path after graduation depends on the degree emphasis you pursue. Some include getting your professional educator license, preparing you to teach in Illinois schools. Other emphases prepare you to work with people in other settings, such as group homes and community organizations.
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What to Expect as an Special Education Major at NIU
Our program is highly interactive. You’ll receive extensive training in the use of assistive technology, as well as several clinical and student teaching experiences. Depending on your goals and interests, you’ll choose one of the following emphases:
- Learning behavior specialist I with professional educator licensure
- Special populations
- Visual impairments with professional educator licensure
- Vision rehabilitation therapy
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Pursue your bachelor's degree at an exceptional value with our affordable tuition and fees.
Get access to career support resources like assessments, leadership courses and resume/cover letter support.
Apply to NIU
First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.
Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.