Special Education

B.S. Degree with a major in Special Education

Teach Every Student. Make a Difference

UMF’s Special Education program equips future teachers with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to support K–12 students with diverse learning needs. Through practical classroom experience and immersive learning, you’ll gain the confidence to adapt lessons, foster inclusion, and help every student succeed.

Graduates also earn the licensure required to become certified Special Education teachers, preparing them to make a real impact in schools. With this program, you’re not just learning to teach—you’re learning to change lives, one student at a time.

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The Learning Experience

UMF’s Special Education program gives students hands-on experience from the start. Sophomore-year practicum combines teaching methodology with time in classrooms. The program culminates in a 16-week senior student teaching experience, where students work closely with mentor teachers to apply their learning in real school settings—often described as the most meaningful part of their UMF education.

Student Teaching Courses & Requirements

What Makes the UMF Special Education Program Unique

Two student teachers in front of students in classroom pointing the board

Experience and Network

Gain hands-on classroom experience early while building connections with mentors, peers, and local schools.

Student Teaching

Bookcases, tables, and chairs inside the Spenciner center

Extensive Resources

Our on-campus state-of-the-art Sweatt-Winter Early Childhood Lab School, Curriculum Lab, Assistive Technology Center, Everyone’s Resource Depot & more.

Teacher Prep Resources

Black and white image from 1940 of a teacher reaching in front of children

Tradition and Excellence

For over 160 years we’ve built a long-standing reputation for preparing exceptional, career-ready teachers.

History

Quality and Affordability

Receive a high-quality education with strong support, practical experience, and a cost that keeps your future within reach.

Cost and Aid

“Education is a lifeline for so many people, and they can learn in so many ways. I have loved my time at UMF but am so excited about being a special education teacher and seeing everyone feel valued and empowered.”

Alice Skiff, 2026 Graduate

Graduate Highlight: Creating Caring Classrooms

Alice Skiff, from Newcastle, Maine, is graduating with a UMF Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, and she remembers the first time she heard about inclusion—the practice of educating all students together in general education classrooms, regardless of ability.

Learn from Experienced Educators

At UMF, you’ll learn from faculty who’ve been there as experienced teachers, leaders, and specialists who know today’s classrooms. They’ll support you every step of the way, sharing real-world insight and helping you build the skills and confidence to succeed.

Questions? Ask a Professor!

Brianna Grumstrup

Assistant Professor of Special Education

About Brianna

Jessica Apgar

Assistant Professor of Special Education

About Jessica

Kate Macleod

Associate Professor of Special Education

About Kate

Kathryn Stiefel

Instructor – Special Education

About Kathryn

Contact Us to Get Started!

Office of Admissions
246 Main Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938-1994

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