Special Education Dual Licensure

Picture a safe, caring and comfortable classroom in which the unique strengths of every student are fostered, where inclusivity is celebrated and negative stereotypes about dis/ability are dispelled. Now picture yourself as the teacher of that class. At Carroll, you can acquire the skills, knowledge and experiences to gain licensure in both special education and general education.

“What I love most is that we are placed in a classroom our sophomore year.”
— Carley Mueller '20

Read Carley's story

About the Dual Licensure Program

In Carroll University’s general education and special education dual licensure programs, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge to lead learner-centered, inclusive environments, which provide all students access to the educational curriculum.

Inclusive teaching is characterized by:

  • Creating environments of belonging
  • Promoting relationships that lead to mutual caring
  • Approaching learners with an asset perspective that draws on the strengths of students
  • Personalizing learning around each student’s strengths and needs
  • Implementing curriculum and instruction that includes multiple perspectives and student choice
  • Reducing prejudice by confronting negative stereotypes toward dis/ability
  • Providing access and opportunity for all students

Dual licensure is an attractive option if you want to pursue a career in general education and special education. You can complete the requirements for licensure in cross-categorical special education (grades K-12), with an elementary education (grades K-9) major.  You’ll be able to complete dual licensure in elementary and special education in four years, and this may include participation in the Inclusive Teacher Residency Program. You’ll be placed within inclusive environments that model these seven teaching practices and learn to recognize and respond to the diverse needs of students.

Dually licensed candidates gain a broader awareness and understanding of the school structures, processes and community organizations that support students with disabilities. You’ll learn innovative, inclusive and equitable approaches, including effective practices that align with research-based models for pre-service and in-service educators, to meet the& academic, social and emotional needs of all learners.

Education Program FAQ

Get answers to frequently asked questions about undergraduate degrees in education.

For more information, see School of Education and Human Services.

Inclusive Teacher Residency Program

Carroll’s Inclusive Teacher Residency Program (ITRP) offers expanded opportunities to prepare and refine your skills in schools and classrooms. A resident is a pre-service undergraduate education candidate in the last two semesters of his or her teacher preparation program. As a resident, you’ll engage in a variety of teaching and learning experiences for a full K-12 academic year. In the first semester of the residency, you’ll work in the school setting approximately 20-25 hours per week while also completing university coursework. You’ll have opportunities to participate in team planning, school and district staff development and, in some cases, as a paid staff member in the district. The residency culminates with an 18-week student teaching placement. Candidates who participate in the residency program solidify their philosophical beliefs around inclusive practices, and are well prepared to transition into their role as an educator.

Careers

College is a big investment in a bright future. Learn more about the rewarding careers our majors pursue, and the workplaces and experiences of the alumni from our program. See where yours may take you.

Career Insight

Latest Program News

Group of Counselors

CARROLL UNIVERSITY TO OFFER FREE COMMUNITY COUNSELING

4/13/2023

Carroll University’s Department of Education and Human Services will offer a new Community Counseling Center during the summer of 2023 as a free resource to the public.

Alumna Kathy Wolfgram '76

Kathy Wolfgram '76 to serve as keynote speaker for annual Alumnae Leadership Luncheon

8/7/2021

The Dr. Seuss title “Oh, the Places You’ll Go” comes to mind for alumna Kathy Wolfgram ’76 when she reflects on her time at Carroll and the start of a career in chemistry that she said might have been intimidating if she knew what was to come.

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