Special Education
Academic Department
We prepare the next generation of confident, skilled, and compassionate special education professionals through outstanding teaching, dedicated mentorship, and pioneering research guided by national leaders in the field.
Start Your Journey in Special Education
Looking for a career that makes a real impact? In Special Education, we’re here to help you become the kind of teacher who changes lives.
Why Future Educators Choose UNC:
For more than 130 years, UNC has been Colorado’s top university for teacher preparation. Over half of the K–12 teachers in Colorado are UNC graduates, and nearly one in three Colorado Teachers of the Year earned their degrees here. When you join UNC, you join a legacy of excellence.
Hear from our alumni
Alumni
"My experience in the Special Education Generalist program at UNC has been nothing but positive and encouraging. I have not only received phenomenal content knowledge and resources from top professors who have had many years of experience in the field, but I have also been provided with countless opportunities."
Jake Owens
Special Education Generalist
Alumni
The rigorous and supportive program gave me a strong foundation in Early Childhood Special Education and deepened my passion for creating inclusive classrooms. This experience directly shaped my teaching and led to the honor of being named Mapleton Public Schools’ 2024–2025 “Teacher of the Year."
Ashley Phelps
M.A. Early Childhood Special Education
Alumni
"UNCO turned my uncertainty at the start of the pandemic into a path toward success. Their supportive, structured program gave me confidence and lasting skills. Today, I am proud to be a successful teacher, prepared to inspire the next generation."
Kory Shick
MA Special Education Generalist
Colorado Association of Career and Technical Education (CACTE) Legislative Fellow & ACE-CTE For All Past-President
What you will gain from our program:
Scholarships to Support Your Path
We award over $50,000 in scholarships each year to students pursuing careers in special education. Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, we’re committed to making your education affordable and accessible.
Expert Faculty Who Invest in You
Our nationally recognized faculty are leaders in the field of special education. Through teaching, mentoring, and groundbreaking research, they’ll support you in becoming a confident, skilled, and compassionate educator.
Personalized Academic Support
You’ll be matched with a full-time advisor who will guide you through every step of your academic journey—from course planning to graduation. You’re never navigating college alone.
Early and Ongoing Field Experience
You’ll gain more than 1,000 hours of real-world classroom experience, working directly with students of all abilities. Our Field Experience Coordinator ensures you’re placed in supportive, high-quality learning environments that build your skills and confidence from day one.
Opportunities to Connect and Lead
Get involved in community-driven projects, student organizations, and leadership opportunities that help you grow both personally and professionally.
Future Teacher Conference
Interested in a career in teaching? Sign up for this free annual event! The University of Northern Colorado invites you and your teachers to the eleventh annual UNC Future Teacher Conference. This conference offers a day of informative activities designed to help you learn just what it takes to become an educator.
Bresnahan Halstead Center
This center is committed to work for the advancement of knowledge and quality of services for people with disabilities through research, professional development, technical assistance, and scholarships.
Center for Gifted and Talented Education
The Center for Gifted and Talented Education offers programs, training, and resources to help gifted students grow. We also supports teachers, families, and others who want to learn more about gifted education.
Get Involved
News
Adaptive technology resources
University Libraries
Disability Resource Center
We work together with the entire campus community to eliminate barriers, increase accessibility, and foster inclusive environments through education, resources, and personalized support.
- DRC@unco.edu
- 970-351-2289
- Michener L-80 Campus Box 139