Loyola’s School of Education adds degree in special education to address critical teacher shortage

Loyola University Maryland’s School of Education is introducing a new Bachelor of Arts in Special Education to prepare future educators to lead, advocate, and serve students with disabilities across Maryland and beyond.

The new major, which is scheduled to launch in Fall 2027, prepares aspiring educators to teach and advocate for students with disabilities and to earn Maryland teacher licensure in either elementary/middle or secondary/adult special education. The program was developed in response to the growing demand for special education teachers in Maryland, where special education remains one of the state’s most in-demand certification areas.

“Loyola’s new Special Education major offers students the opportunity to combine a nationally recognized liberal arts education with preparation for a profession that is both deeply meaningful and in high demand,” said Afra Ahmed Hersi, Ph.D., dean of Loyola University Maryland’s School of Education. “We are excited to welcome students from across the country and around the world who are passionate about creating equitable learning opportunities and supporting the success of all learners.”

Grounded in the standards of the Council for Exceptional Children, the program emphasizes specially designed instruction, literacy rooted in the science of reading, and clinical experiences that connect what students learn to real classrooms. 

“This new program reflects Loyola's commitment to preparing highly qualified educators who will support students with diverse learning needs and help create more inclusive schools and communities,” said Kristine E. Larson, Ed.D., program director of Special Education. “Schools need highly qualified special educators now more than ever, and we are excited to prepare graduates who can make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.”

The curriculum includes courses in assessment, behavior management, collaboration, curriculum and instruction, and literacy, with an emphasis on evidence-based practices and inclusive education. Six free electives allow students to pursue interdisciplinary interests and complementary fields, including speech-language-hearing sciences, early childhood education, multilingual learner (ESOL) education, educational leadership, and psychology, enabling students to tailor the program to their professional goals.

Beyond the classroom, students can expect roughly two to three hours per week in a school setting during early field experiences and a year-long internship during their senior year. The program also offers placements in Baltimore-area partner schools and mentoring and supervision from experienced teachers and Loyola clinical faculty.

About the School of Education
Loyola University Maryland’s School of Education offers leading undergraduate and graduate education programs for aspiring and current educators, educational leaders, and counselors, who are called to work with K-12 learners but require certification and training or improved teaching and leadership skills. Loyola’s mission-driven approach inspires and engages a community of accomplished educators who bring about ethical and fundamental change to help all children reach their full potential.