College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Special Education
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Special Education
Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Teaching.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total classes: 43-44
- Total credit hours: 129-132
- Cost per credit hour: $223.58**
Delivery Format
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Special Education program at New Mexico State University are prepared for dual licensure in both general and special education. They are equipped to design inclusive instruction, manage diverse classrooms, assess student needs and collaborate effectively with families and educators. With options for Bilingual/TESOL endorsements and hands-on field experience, they are ready to support and advocate for students with disabilities and English language learners in a variety of educational settings.
- Special Education Teacher
- Inclusion Specialist
- Behavior Interventionist
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Instructional Coordinator
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Bachelor of Special Education? Fill out our inquiry form.
Champion Inclusion. Change Lives. Start Your Special Education Journey.
Students who are drawn to the Bachelor of Science in Special Education degree are compassionate, patient and deeply committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals with diverse learning needs. They are passionate about education, advocacy and inclusion, and are motivated by a desire to support and empower students with disabilities in reaching their full potential.
The Bachelor of Science in Special Education includes teacher licensure with two options; Pre-K to 12th grade with elementary specialization or secondary specialization with programs in Science, Language Arts, Math Education, and Social Studies.
Accredited Program
Aligned with Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) ensuring a high-quality education.
Scholarships Available
Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**
The B.S. Special Education (Elementary Education) degree embeds the Language Arts Teaching Field/Concentration and the Bilingual/TESL endorsements. This comprehensive program integrates coursework in elementary education, special education and bilingual/ESL education, providing a well-rounded foundation for teaching diverse learners.
The B.S. Special Education (Elementary Education) consists of at least 129 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all School of Teacher Preparation, Administration and Leadership core courses and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. Note: For certification in the State of New Mexico the Bilingual/TESL endorsements require 6 credits of a language other than English.
Take classes like:
- SPED 3105 - Introduction to Special Education in a Diverse Society
- SPED 4220 – Classroom Management for Diverse Learners
- SPED 4120 – High Incidence Disabilities in a Diverse Society
- EDLT 3110 – Integrating Technology with Teaching
- SPED 4811 - Practicum in Education, Equity and Cultural Diversity
- SPED 4820 - Student Teaching SPED
The B.S. Special Education (Secondary Education) degree embeds the Secondary Teaching Field/Concentration selected by the student: Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies. This comprehensive program integrates coursework in secondary education, special education and bilingual/ESL education, providing a well-rounded foundation for teaching diverse learners. Students engage in extensive field experiences, including a 15-week student teaching placement, to develop practical skills in inclusive classroom settings.
TheB.S. Special Education (Secondary Education) consists of at least 132 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all School of Teacher Preparation, Administration and Leadership core courses, and all University degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. Note: For certification in the State of New Mexico the Bilingual/TESL endorsements require 6 credits of a language other than English.
Take classes like:
- EDUC 1185 - Introduction to Secondary Education and Youth
- SPED 3105 - Introduction to Special Education in a Diverse Society
- BLED 3120 – Sheltered English Instruction for the ESL Classroom
- SPED 4150 - Secondary Curriculum, Methods, and Materials for Special Education in a Diverse Society
- SPED 4220 – Classroom Management for Diverse Learners
- SPED 4820 - Student Teaching SPED
- READ 3110 – Instruction for Special Reading Needs
- SPED 4210 – Introduction to Assessment of Diverse Exceptional Learners
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Admission Requirements for Teacher Education Programs
All students wishing to complete a degree in Special Education must apply to the Teacher Education Program. A 2.75 minimum GPA is required for admission to the Teacher Education Program and a 2.75 minimum GPA must be maintained for graduation.
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.