The elementary education / special education dual certification major equips you to handle the challenges of teaching language arts, social studies, mathematics and science to students with a variety of learning needs in grades 1-6, as well as general special education to grades 1-8. The program culminates with two internships and a professional seminar, enabling you to practice the skills you’ve developed in real-world situations.
While in the elementary education / special education dual certification program, you’ll learn not only how to teach topics such as reading, writing and mathematics, but also how to best plan your lessons, as well as the purpose and methods of assessment. Additionally, you’ll gain an understanding of how to appropriately manage and teach children requiring additional support.
This dual certification will not only enable you to handle greater responsibilities in the classroom, it will also provide greater career advancement opportunities due to your increased range of teaching abilities.
This Maryland Approved program meets certification requirements in other states. The program holds a Certificate of Distinction from the International Literacy Association for the quality preparation in reading instruction. Students are advised, however, to consult certification requirements in states of interest early in their study.
As a student in the Mount’s adult undergraduate education program you will:
- Attend convenient classes. Meet part-time one night per week and/or weekends during the academic year and twice per week during the summer.
- Finish at your own pace. Core courses are offered year round in accelerated 5- and 8-week sessions. Take the courses you need at your convenience.
- Receive specialized support for adult students. One-on-one advising and a customized degree plan are available and encouraged for all students.
Virtual Open Houses
Learn more about the Division of Continuing Studies programs at our virtual open house series! Gain more information about our programs from our admissions team and program directors.

Mount St. Mary’s University’s Frederick Campus invites you to register for a one-on-one accelerated/adult undergraduate admissions advising appointment.
Find out more about our adult undergraduate elementary education / special education degree and the admissions process.
Your degree path is unique based on your career and prior education. Complete the form to have an advisor contact you to map out the best path forward.
What Our Faculty Say
Learn more about the Mount’s education / special education program for adult undergraduates with Chair and Director of Teacher Education Stacey Brown-Hobbs, Ph.D.