The Loading... program is designed to provide a sequenced program of study that provides the knowledge and competencies to effectively address the needs of individuals with mild to moderate disabilities in primarily inclusive settings. This fully online program is open to anyone interested in obtaining skills that are applicable in a traditional classroom setting, as well as a variety of non-classroom contexts.
The program will provide participants with more knowledge and clinical experience with which to create an inclusive classroom that incorporates the essential principles of Universal Design for Learning. Coursework in the program will provide participants with a deeper understanding of the range and characteristics of learning disabilities and tools with which to differentiate learning in and out of the classroom.
Upon completing the program, participants who already hold a teaching certification may choose to apply for an additional teaching certificate in Students with Disabilities at the grade level consistent with their initial classroom-teaching certificate. Note that obtaining certification takes place after the completion of this program and is something the student must complete through the state’s individual pathways program, if they wish to do so.
The program was life-changing for me and I am still so grateful for the opportunities it provided.
Special Education Teacher, Salmon River High School
What You Will Learn
- Expertise in creating an inclusionary classroom environment, and implementing differentiated instruction to help those with special learning needs and styles perform at the highest level possible.
- The ability to assess and diagnose students with mild to moderate disabilities, and design interventions and curriculum to meet their needs.
- Creative approaches for integrating technology into classroom to enhance learning.
- Collaboration and communication skills central for working as part of a school team addressing the unique needs of B-12 learners.
- Knowledge of behavior management strategies to help classrooms and other learning environments to run smoothly.
- Foundational knowledge about current issues, policy, and educational research in the field of special education.
Unique Program Features
- 100% online program provides flexibility, no matter you’re located or what your goals are.
- The program can be completed in as little as three months full time or 12 months part time.
- Opportunities to attend professional development workshops and/or conferences to help further your understanding of educational content and pedagogy.
- Small online class sizes promote close relationships with professors and fellow classmates. Students graduate with a cohort who provides support throughout the length of their future careers.
Admissions FAQs
- 12-15 minimum credits
- 3-6 months is the approximate minimum time to complete (assumes full time attendance)
- Rolling deadline to submit application materials
- Start date: Summer*
*Part-time options are available during the academic year
Program Contacts
Admissions / General Information
The Office of Graduate Studies
800) 458-1142 / (315) 267-2165
Satterlee Hall room 116
SUNY Potsdam
44 Pierrepont Avenue
Potsdam, New York 13676-2294
graduate@potsdam.edu
www.potsdam.edu/graduate
Program-Related Information
Laura Carbone
MSED SPED/CAS SPED Program Coordinator
Satterlee Hall 218A
(315) 786-2373
carbonla@potsdam.edu