Connect. Engage. Discover.
For incoming and current students
Finding your passion is one thing. Getting answers, finding the right connections or chasing down resources can be just as important to a good experience.
As a student in special education, you’ll find resources ready to respond. Like our professional advisors. The CATS office to help monitor your journey in teacher education. Faculty and staff coordinators to help guide your studies and practicums. Student organizations. And access to on-site and on-campus resources from IRTS to financial aid.
Becoming a Teacher at UNI
A Special Field Focus
Built into your special education minor coursework are half-day, week-long practical experiences in special education teaching at Becker Elementary in Waterloo at the beginning of your studies, followed by experiences in varied elementary and secondary settings as you progress. Our faculty and staff help coordinate and supervise these experiences.
Broaden Your Network with Student Orgs
While the Student Council for Exceptional Children, our special education student organization, is currently not active, there are plenty of organizations across UNI that give you the opportunity to connect, grow and further your skills in a different setting. Other College of Education student orgs you might find worth checking out:
- Student Elementary and Early Childhood Association (SEECA)
- Student Association of MIddle Level Educators (SAMLE)
- Supplies on Hand
Interested in supporting the college for special events and recruitment activities? Consider joining the College of Education Student Ambassadors (CESA).
Funding to Support Your Studies
- Undergraduate: About a dozen scholarships with a mix of criteria for incoming, transfer and current students, including those minoring in early childhood special education
- Graduate: Six donor scholarships plus the Dean’s Graduate Scholarships
- Additional College of Education-specific scholarships for elementary and early childhood education
Funding varies, but many scholarships award up to $1,000. The Dean’s Graduate Scholarships are $1,500 awards.