One of only three schools in Massachusetts to be “Approved with Distinction” by DESE (learn more)
Does the idea of unlocking every student’s potential for learning excite you? Are you passionate about advocating for students with special needs and creating a supportive classroom environment where all children can thrive? Our Special Education program is a state-approved, competency-based program founded upon the principles of effective instruction and the philosophy of inclusive education.
Apply as a high school senior into the dual degree program with one application and benefit from being considered for a $2,500 Dual Degree Scholarship (per year for your 4 undergraduate years). You will also be considered for a $1,000 Dual Degree Scholarship for every term you are enrolled at least part time in your graduate program at Assumption.
The Master of Arts program prepares students for a career as a teacher of students with mild to moderate disabilities, starting with the Massachusetts Initial and Professional Licensure exam for Teacher of Students with mild to moderate disabilities (Pre-K-8; 5-12).
Benefits for Dual Degree students:
- The Special Education Program Director will serve as students’ faculty advisor
- Students will be encouraged to join the Education Club and Honors Society
Mary Katherine Petterson
Education 2016
Teacher, Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy / Pursued a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Boston College Lynch School
“Assumption prepared me better than I could have ever imagined. From rigorous training in planning for all academic subjects as well as ample field experience, I felt extremely prepared to enter the professional world. Professors challenge you while also serving as mentors. They guided me to where I am today.”
Kelsey Adkins
Education 2017
Student Teacher, Dawson Elementary School
“I credit my success to the professors in the Education Department at Assumption. My professors provided me with the skills and knowledge I needed to be a successful student and educator. It was their encouraging words and the relationships that I developed with each of them that ultimately helped me to thrive.”
Erin Killeen
Education 2017
Student Teacher, Lincoln Street School
“I had over 75 hours of field experience before it came time for me to student teach. My education professors at Assumption taught me so many amazing strategies and methods for teaching elementary school students. I loved learning new concepts and skills that I could apply in the classroom.”
Kathleen Knox
Education 2017
Student Teacher, Forest Grove Middle School
“I couldn't have accomplished of my growth and progress without the help of the education department. Student teaching taught me that you can never truly know what the classroom experience is like until you take over a class for yourself. Real classroom experience is the only thing that can show you what teaching is actually like on a day to day basis.”
Sarah Olson
Education 2017
Student Teacher, Lincoln Street School
“My classes and professors at Assumption gave me vast knowledge and incredible opportunities. I was able apply what I learned in the classroom and my practicum experiences to my role as a teacher in Worcester Public schools.”
Allie Fleming
Education 2018
6th Grade Teacher, Worcester Arts Magnet School, Worcester, MA
“Assumption will teach you more than how to pass an MTEL or GRE. Assumption College's liberal arts education has given me background in so many different subjects. I was able to major in education and English while also getting minors in STEM and a Master's in Special Education.”
Carly Sakellarios
Education 2018
Paraprofessional/Co-Teacher at a Charter School in Lawrence, MA
“Assumption College’s liberal arts curriculum prepared me to better answer my students' questions. I got extra experience in observing and assisting an elementary school teacher through the AC club, Book Buddies. Any time in a classroom as an education major is exciting. I was able to volunteer my time to help out and learn more about teaching the little ones!”
Katherine Ventola
Education 2020
Camp Coordinator, James L. McKeown Boys & Girls Club of Woburn
“This experience will make me more prepared for my future career as a preschool teacher. I’ve learned so much from this job including that all children are unique in their own ways. I am in charge of roughly 15 to 20 eight-year-olds every day and run various activities for them focused around science, English, and art. ”
Catherine Donnelly
Education 2021
Teacher & Naturalist, Norman Bird Sanctuary
“I have really been able to experience what it is like to run a classroom. I spent the summer working with children in grades 2 – 8 teaching them about coastal creatures and ecosystems by conducting experiments, playing games, making crafts and exploring the coast.”
Jonathan Kelly
Education 2000
Principal, Sherwood Middle School
“My experience at Assumption was transformative. A wonderful community with a dedicated and supportive faculty who go above and beyond for students. My professors believed in me and motivated me to do my best. The strong personal connections I made is what gave me the confidence I needed to persevere and dream big.”
Jenn Futtner
Education 2019
4th Grade Teacher, Worcester Public Schools
“Assumption's education department thoroughly prepared me to become a teacher. My experiences working in admissions, residential life, and academic support provided me with skills for my profession as well. I learned to be a better public speaker, problem solver, community builder, team player and more. I had such a positive experience at Assumption!”
Pauliny Smith
Spanish 2022
Student Teaching at Algonquin Regional High School
“My professors encouraged me to challenge myself and apply my education to all aspects of life. I am very thankful for the Spanish program and professors. They emphasized the importance of culture and immersing yourself in the language to internalize what you learned and use it in daily experiences. I can't wait to reflect this in my own classroom!”
Renee Zahigian
BA in Education/MA in Special Education Dual Degree Program Elementary Education BA ‘19, Special Education MA ‘20
Special Education Teacher, Wachusett Regional School District
“Continuing at Assumption allowed me to participate in their accelerated master’s program. The professors in the Education and Special Education department are incredibly knowledgeable. Their willingness to go above and beyond to help their students learn is what has allowed me to be successful in my career thus far. ”
Assumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost
We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.