Friends University is launching a new licensure program available as a specialization within the Master of Education degree. The licensure program, recently approved by the Kansas State Board of Education, prepares teachers with an existing teaching license to meet the growing need for special education teachers and complete the Kansas Department of Education licensure requirements.
The Special Education High Incidence (P-12) licensure program is designed for teachers who want to teach preschool through 12th-grade students with high-incidence disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, mild or moderate mental retardation, communication disorders, and behavior or emotional disorders).
During the past 10 years, the number of students receiving special education services has risen 30 percent, according to the National Education Association. Currently, a shortage of special education teachers exists in 49 states, including Kansas, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
“Special education licensure can be completed in one year with teachers taking only six core courses,” said Dr. Dona Gibson, professor of education and psychology and director of the program. “Teachers can begin working as a special education teacher as they complete their licensure requirements. These students can then choose to complete their master’s degree in special education by taking 12 graduate workshop credits.”
The program will prepare graduates to assess disabled students; construct individualized instructional strategies; create positive social and environmental interactions; and communicate and collaborate with professionals, family members and community members.
The new program will be offered beginning in August and may be taken online, on campus or in a blend of the two formats. Video conferences will be included for students who cannot make it to scheduled campus course times. For more information about the program, contact 316-295-5300 or adultrecruitment@friends.edu.
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.