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Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • When I graduate, what will I be qualified to teach?

Special education P-5 and middle school, elementary education K-5, high school in-class support, and grades 6-12 after certification testing in a specific content area.

  • What happens if I change my mind and no longer wish to be a teacher?

You will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in a liberal arts major, so you will be qualified to pursue avenues other than teaching.

  • Why should I choose a five-year program rather than graduating in four?

You will graduate with an bachelor’s degree in an academic major and a master’s degree in special education. You will also hold two NJ teaching certifications.  Separately, such achievement would take almost 7 years.  Furthermore, spreading coursework over 5 years allows more flexibility  in scheduling and permits enrollment in elective courses.

  • What is the job market like for special education teachers?

Highly qualified Teachers of Individuals with Disabilities are in high demand. The department boasts a 100% placement rate for those seeking employment in special education.

  • What is your average class size?

22 students.

  • How do I arrange a visit?

Visit the College’s website for prospective students: www.tcnj.edu/~admiss.

  • Who should apply?

The five-year program in Special Education is designed for students who have completed high school and are first-time students and for transfer students from community colleges or other four-year programs who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree.

  • Does this program enable me to teach students who are deaf/hard-of-hearing?

No, if you are interested in teaching students who are deaf/HOH, the department offers another five-year integrated bachelor's and master's of arts program which culminates in two certifications:  one in Education of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing and one in Elementary Education.  Visit the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education site.

  • Can I study abroad?

Yes, the department supports the College’s International Student Teaching program. There is room in the five-year program to study abroad. Visit www.tcnj.edu/~goglobal for details.

  • I am excited about student teaching. When will I have experience in the classroom?  

You will have part time field experience in your junior and senior years. You will teach full-time during your fifth year.

Special Education, Language & Literacy

Forcina Hall 308

The College of New Jersey

P.O. Box 7718

Ewing, NJ 08628

P) 609.771.2308

F) 609.637.5172

E) speced@tcnj.edu

Chair

Amy G. Dell

Secretaries

Dianne Gibson
E) dgibson@tcnj.edu

Mary Ann Peterson
E) peterson@tcnj.edu