Special Education
Welcome to the Special Education Program at the University of Florida. We appreciate your interest in our degree programs, and the research produced by our faculty.
The mission of the special education program is to promote the successful inclusion of individuals with disabilities and their families in society through excellence in the education of teachers and leaders, the generation of new knowledge, and the application of existing knowledge.
We employ a multifaceted approach to carry out our mission including excellent academic programs, practical application of knowledge in real world settings, and a variety of research opportunities.
- Our undergraduate and master’s degree programs prepare teachers to work effectively with students with disabilities in inclusive settings.
- Our advanced graduate degrees prepare professionals for leadership roles in schools, school districts, and higher education. Additionally, faculty and doctoral students are involved in grant activities and other projects and scholarly pursuits designed to enhance the lives of students with disabilities and their success within academic and social contexts.
Unified Elementary ProTeach
The Unified Elementary Proteach program consists of undergraduate study in Elementary Education followed by an additional year of study at the graduate level (either with post-baccalaureate status or in a masters degree program) in which a specialization area is pursued. UEP students choosing the Dual Certification program complete graduate level work in special education. The program of study prepares teachers with emphasis on working with all students, including those with special needs. The primary focus of the program is in the area of mild disabilities.
UEP students completing the Dual Certification degree program receive a master’s degree in special education and are recommended for certification in Elementary Education (K-6) and in Exceptional Student Education (K-12) as well as for the ESOL endorsement. Students choosing the post-baccalaureate option receive the same certification recommendations.
* For more information on the Unified Elementary ProTeach program, please contact Dr. Cox.
Teach Well – Online Graduate Program
Teach Well—the advanced program in special education—is a web-based degree program designed to prepare teachers to serve students with disabilities in inclusive settings. The program consists of coursework that provides a well-rounded program of study for anyone currently teaching students with disabilities or other learning differences. The purpose of the program is to provide a vehicle through which participants can obtain the knowledge and skills needed to be effective educators of all students—particularly those with special needs.
The primary consumers of Teach Well are (1) practicing teachers in special education seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in this area and (2) practicing teachers in other areas such as elementary education or content area teachers at the middle or high school levels seeking knowledge and skills that will enhance their ability to serve all students within inclusive settings.
Teach Well participants who already hold a masters degree in an appropriate area have the option of pursuing a specialist degree. The specialist degree option includes a project in addition to the coursework as well as oral and written exit exams.
* For more information on the Teach Well program, please contact Dr. Repetto.
Doctoral Programs
The Ph.D. program in special education is a full-time, on-campus program designed to prepare its graduates for faculty positions in higher education. The program includes a strong emphasis on research as well as attention to teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
* For more information on our doctoral program, please contact Dr. Waldron.
