Integrated Elementary & Special Education

Students smiling and talking while looking at science fair poster

UMD's Integrated Elementary & Special Education (IESE) major isn't just about earning a degree — it's about becoming a highly effective teacher who can make a difference from day one.

Classrooms today are dynamic environments. Students have diverse backgrounds, abilities, and learning needs. The IESE program prepares teaching professionals to meet these challenges.

The major combines research-backed curriculum and hands-on experiences to ensure future educators are prepared to support a broad spectrum of learners — from students with special education needs to English language learners.

The IESE major is a 4-year program that qualifies students to apply for state licensure to teach K-6 elementary education and K-age 21 (grade 12) special education (Academic Behavioral Strategist).

Detailed program description

The IESE Path to Becoming a Teacher

Students interested in the Integrated Elementary & Special Education program declare a pre-IESE major. Once prerequisite coursework is completed, they apply to be officially admitted into the IESE major.

Official teacher preparation typically begins in the third year of study. As teacher candidates, students have a sequenced series of courses and field experiences, which are grouped into learning “blocks.” The IESE program consists of five blocks. Each progressively builds toward the culminating experience of student teaching, which happens just before graduation.

Due to the complexity of the admission to the block process, students are strongly encouraged to regularly meet with their assigned academic advisor to establish a plan for program completion.

IESE Alumni Testimonial

Maddie Knutson wearing a colorful floral dress in front of a colorful bulletin board — Maddie Knutson, fourth-grade teacher at Woodbury Leadership Academy and a teacher representative on the school board.

My admin team has specifically stated that they actively look for UMD grads because they know how well the IESE program prepares young educators!

Having so many opportunities to observe, work with students, and teach in real classrooms made me more prepared for entering the school system. I learned how schools functioned, saw a variety of teaching styles, and got to learn my own style.

Having so much knowledge about special education is one of my greatest assets as an educator. Even though I teach general education, my special education background helps me be such a strong advocate for my students and create the most inclusive environment that I can. I entered the workforce already comfortable implementing interventions and using data to influence decisions.

I formed relationships that have lasted long past graduation and always felt supported by my professors. I encountered passionate educators who genuinely cared about preparing me to be a strong teacher. My time at UMD really helped me figure out who I am and where I’m going.

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College of Education and Human Service Professions

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