Special Education Portland State University

Overview

The Special Education programme at Portland State University provides a dedicated pathway for students aiming to become licensed teachers capable of supporting individuals with diverse developmental and emotional needs. This undergraduate course combines theoretical foundations with extensive practical experience to ensure graduates are ready for the classroom. Students develop the professional expertise required to advocate for equity and inclusion across various educational settings.

Why Special Education at Portland State University?

Portland State University is committed to addressing the regional shortage of specialised educators by providing an impact-driven curriculum. The College of Education maintains strong partnerships with local school districts, ensuring that students benefit from high-quality practicum opportunities and student teaching placements. Faculty members are active researchers and practitioners with expertise in areas such as autism, positive behaviour support, and early intervention.

The institution has a long-standing reputation for producing highly skilled teacher candidates who are frequently sought after by employers in the Pacific Northwest. By joining a dedicated cohort, students build a professional network while receiving mentorship from experts who remain closely connected to contemporary classroom challenges. The programme is fully accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 34599 per year
• National fee: USD 34599 per year
• Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to cover a broad spectrum of support needs, from academic intervention to social skills development. Modules may include:

• Special Education
• Autism
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Inclusion
• Assessment
• Early Intervention
• Transition to Adulthood
• Visual Impairments

Careers with Special Education

Graduates are prepared to obtain their Oregon Teacher’s License and pursue diverse roles within the education sector. The comprehensive training provided allows alumni to work in inclusive 21st-century schools, collaborating with families and specialists to support student growth. Potential career paths include:

• Special Education Teacher
• Behaviour Specialist
• Community Transition Specialist
• Reading Specialist
• Education Coordinator
• Special Education Advocate
• Instructional Coordinator
• Assisted Technology Specialist

The degree also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to progress into administrative roles, such as Director of Special Education or Special Education Administrator. Graduates are highly competitive candidates for positions in Oregon and states with licensure reciprocity.

Accreditation

The Special Education Bachelor's degree at Portland State University is accredited through the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the state of Oregon's Teacher and Standards Practices Commission.