Teaching Grades 3-6 & Special Education

B.S. in ED. (Standard Certificate B-6)

What will I learn with an elementary and special education degree?

Students who would like to teach in the upper elementary grades would be a perfect fit for the 3-6. Our upper elementary and special education degree is designed to prepare educators to teach third through sixth grade. Through coursework and real-world experience, you'll be equipped with the tools to create inclusive, engaging classrooms that support every learner.

Here's what makes CMU's program one of the best:

• Prepares students for 3-6 certification and K-12 special education
• Courses focus on: Reading, literacy, math, science, social studies, differentiated instruction, accommodations, IEPs and transitions.
• Learn inclusive teaching: Reach diverse learners and manage classrooms effectively.
• Core teaching practices: Focus on meeting the diverse needs of the whole child.
• Hands-on field experiences: Work with teaching videos, student work and lesson plans. Plus, reflect on fieldwork at different grade levels.
• Offered at some satellite locations.
• Opportunities for study away and study abroad.

Elementary and special education program highlights

CAEP Accreditation advances excellence in educator preparation through evidence-based accreditation that assures quality and supports continuous improvement to strengthen teacher education programs.

Clinical Experiences represent the heart of our education preparation program and provide a wide array of opportunities for teacher candidates and other education professionals to refine, polish and strengthen practice

The Literacy Center at CMU represents a dynamic partnership between Central Michigan University and the surrounding central Michigan region. Support area students and their families by providing instructional services in reading and writing and providing undergraduate teacher candidates and graduate students the opportunity to acquire and hone their skills and knowledge in literacy diagnosis and remediation.

Global Experiences take students to locations such as Westport Ireland, Dominican Republic and more.  Students ready to student teach and those early in their teacher education program will explore new teaching environments with a diverse classroom and unique learning opportunities. 

Scholarships are available each academic year through the Department of Teacher Education & Professional Development to teacher education students.

STEM Education is CMU's Center for Excellence in STEM Education (CESE) that positively impacts mathematics, science and engineering educators at all levels in Michigan and beyond through innovative partnerships, programs and professional development opportunities.

Student Council for Exceptional Children is a student organization that is affiliated with the National Council for Exceptional Children. The purpose of this chapter is to advance the education of individuals with disabilities and to promote related, educational, scientific and support purposes.