Secondary Education

Coursework is organized across general education, pre‑professional preparation, and a special education core. Students build a strong academic foundation while developing skills in curriculum design, instructional planning, assessment, and collaboration to support students with high‑ and low‑incidence disabilities. The program includes multiple internships and culminates in a full semester of student teaching for practical classroom preparation.

SPED 340: PreK-12 Special Education Methods

The purpose of this course is to help special educators effectively plan to ensure their students with high incidence and low incidence needs receive appropriate instructional programming through implementation of evidence-based practices to be successful in literacy, math and content learning. Teaching will be examined as a process consisting of instructional and evaluation practices as applied to individual programming for students.

SPED 375: PreK-12 Assessment in Special Education

This course prepares students to plan, use, and report on formal and informal assessments with individuals with exceptionalities.  Students will gain knowledge and skills in analyzing data from standardized tests, curriculum-based measurements, and observation evaluations. Students will also acquire skills in using assessments to make decisions that will improve instructional and learning outcomes.

SPED 390: PreK-12 Functional Behavior and Interventions

This course focuses on various aspects of human behavior and is designed to prepare both future general and special education teachers with knowledge and skills to effectively manage and promote prosocial skills of students who present challenging behaviors—both those with high and low incidence disabilities. The course is structured around several theoretical underpinnings: (1) behavior is purposeful and fulfills a function, (2) behavior and environment impact each other reciprocally, (3) behavior can be predicted and managed based on principles of applied behavior analysis, and (4) self-management can be promoted through an understanding of various theories of human behavior including social learning, cognitive, and ecological theories.

Discover the full Bachelor of Science in Education (Secondary Education - SPED High and Low Incidence) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Graduates are prepared for teaching roles across the PreK–12 continuum. The program is designed to meet Kansas licensure requirements for special education, positioning graduates for professional practice upon completion. With strong statewide demand for special education educators, graduates are well‑positioned to secure employment soon after earning licensure.

PreK–12 Special Education Teacher

Pre-K12 special education teachers become eligible for Kansas licensure upon completion of the program and passing the Kansas State Department of Education content examinations, enabling them to work with students who have both high-incidence and low-incidence disabilities. Their training includes supporting students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms, developing individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and collaborating closely with educators, family, and service providers. They are thoroughly prepared to provide direct instruction and behavioral support in public school settings.

SPED Resource Room Teacher

SPED resource room teachers often work in specialized settings where they provide individualized or small-group instruction. These roles focus on supporting students who require additional academic assistance while continuing to participate in the general education environment.

Inclusive Classroom Co-Teacher

Inclusive classroom co-teachers often serve in dual-certified roles, collaborating closely to support diverse learners. They modify and adapt instruction to meet the needs of both students with and without disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and effective learning environment.

Applicants to the B.S. in Education (Secondary Education – Special Education, High and Low Incidence) program at Fort Hays State University must complete key general education coursework, including ENG 102 and COMM 100 or approved equivalents, with a minimum grade of B. These courses build essential writing and communication skills that support effective teaching, collaboration, and professional practice in special education settings.

Additional General Education (Grade C or Higher)

Applicants must earn a grade of C or higher in ENG 101, MATH 110, and either Pre-Calculus/Calculus or MATH 250. These courses strengthen literacy and quantitative reasoning skills, preparing students to effectively manage instructional data and analyze educational research.

Pre-Professional Education Courses

Students are required to earn a grade of C or higher in TEEL 202, TEEL 231, and TECS 301. These pre-professional education courses provide a foundational background in pedagogy and educational theory essential for future teaching practice.

GPA Requirement

Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher or maintain a 2.75 GPA in their most recent 60 credit hours. This academic standard ensures that students are well-prepared to succeed in upper-division coursework and licensure preparation.