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Specific Learning Disabilities Licensure Program

The licensure program in Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) is a graduate program that qualifies teachers to provide specially designed instruction in reading, mathematics, written and oral expression, and listening comprehension for students with learning disabilities and learning disorders in grades K-12 in the State of Minnesota. Courses in the licensure program provide the skills necessary to design and implement individualized education program plans, and to collaborate and consult with families, other classroom and special education teachers and specialized service providers in the development of the educational programs.

Undergraduates may elect to take some courses while working on their undergraduate degree. These courses will apply to BSU's SLD licensure program. Undergraduate students should work in consultation with their advisor before enrolling in a special education course.

Typically an individual will need 2 years to complete the program if there is no previous special education coursework. Courses taken at the undergraduate level or at other institutions may reduce the time required to complete the licensure. The total semester credits required for SLD licensure is 32-33 credits.

Eight classes in the SLD licensure program have embedded clinical experiences or practica designed to provide experience with a variety of age levels in the licensure area. Students who transfer these courses from other institutions will have to complete a practicum experience. The embedded clinical experiences take the place of a culminating student teaching experience.

NOTE: Course enrollment for all classes is capped and prerequisite courses will be enforced. Students are advised to register early for graduate special education courses to reduce the risk that a course will be filled.

Special Education Core Skills (11 Credits)

  • ED 3600/5600 Study of the Learner with Special Needs (3 credits) This class must be taken first. It is the prerequisite for all other special education classes
  • ED 3640/5640 Due Process in Special Education (3 credits) Prerequisite or concurrent enrollment with ED 3600/5600
  • ED 3650/5650 Collaborative Techniques for Special Educators (3 credits) Prerequisite: ED 3600/5600
  • ED 4715/5715 Curriculum Techniques with Special Populations (3 credits) Prerequisite: ED 3600/5600

Subject Matter Skills for Specific Learning Disabilities (21 or 22 Credits)