Southern Arkansas University

The curriculum focuses on the legal, ethical, and practical aspects of special education. Core coursework typically includes: 

• Characteristics of Students with Disabilities 
• Methods and Materials for Teaching Students with Disabilities 
• Behavior Management in the Classroom 
• Legal Aspects of Special Education 
• Advanced Assessment and Instructional Programming 

Professional Education Core Courses (6 Credit Hours Required):
EDUC	6003	Educational Research
EDUC	6403	School Law

Special Education Core Courses Required for Licensure K-12 (24 credit hours)
SPED	5123	Nature and Needs of Students with Mild Disabilities
SPED	5273	Classroom and Group Managment
SPED	5663	Educational Diagnosis and Assessment
SPED	6003	Collboration/ Consultation for Inclusion
SPED	5073	Survey of Exceptional Individuals
SPED	5043	Instructional Planning for Mild Disabilities
SPED	5053	Methods/Materials for Teaching Students with Mild Disabilities
SPED	6243	Directed Internship K-12

Licensure Programs

Candidates must hold a teaching license in order to be admitted to the Special Education K-12 program. The teacher candidate’s plan of study is designed to meet licensure requirements according to Arkansas law. Southern Arkansas University is not responsible for courses required for licensure if the state changes requirements after the student’s program is approved. Candidates in states other than Arkansas are responsible for checking with their state licensure board for requirements. Candidates will be required to pass two PRAXIS exams: Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications (5354) and Fundamental Subjects: Content Knowledge (5511) plus the Pearson Foundations of Reading Exam.

For both the M.Ed and certificate programs, candidates will need to either take the Foundations of Reading exam prior to starting the program and receive a passing score OR take the additional two reading courses that would prepare the candidate to take the exam. Earning a master’s degree from Southern Arkansas University does not mean that the degree recipient will receive a license. The Arkansas Department of Education or other licensing agency determine who will receive a license.

Note: For a candidate holding a graduate degree, Southern Arkansas University will review the candidate’s credentials on an individual basis and develop a program of study based on licensure requirements.

100% of the above listed courses are online.

2025-2026

Southern Arkansas University is accredted by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Our education programs are designed to meet rigorous state and national standards for teacher preparation. 

To be considered for the School of Graduate Studies, applicants must provide: 

• Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A valid teaching license, though paths exist for initial licensure. Proficiency in the Science of Reading, though there is a pathway if needed.  
• Application: Completed online application and official transcripts. 
• GPA: Minimum undergraduate GPA requirements as specified by the Graduate School. 

[su_testimonial name=”Chirsty Canfield” company=”Current SAU SPED K-12 M.Ed. Student”]I chose SAU because it is close to home, and SAU has a reputation of being the best college in South Arkansas![/su_testimonial] [su_testimonial name=”Christy Grimmett” company=”SAU SPED K-12 M.Ed Graduate”]As an elementary classroom teacher I knew that I needed to know more about how to serve my students with special needs and learning differences. Enrolling in SAU’s online graduate program for special education was one of the best professional decisions I have made. The faculty truly understand the demands of teaching and go out of their way to be helpful and accommodating.

I would encourage all teachers to enroll in SAU’s SPED K-12 program. No matter what grade or subject you teach you will benefit from the knowledge you will gain in this program, and more importantly, your students will also.[/su_testimonial]