Adolescent/Students with Disabilities (Grades 7-12) - B.S./M.S. Ed.
Earn two degrees and a dual teaching certification in five years, and bring your subject to every learner.
Completing high school and transitioning into adulthood is a critical stage for every young person, and it takes a committed, well-trained educator to prepare students of all abilities to succeed. This seamless five-year program lets motivated secondary education majors begin graduate study early, graduate with both a bachelor's and a master's degree, and qualify for dual New York State certification in their content area and in Students with Disabilities, Grades 7-12.
This program is part of Education
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Adolescent/Students with Disabilities at Manhattan University?
This program is tailored for students eager to begin their teaching careers and accelerate their graduate studies. You will enroll in four graduate-level courses as an undergraduate senior, then complete your master's degree with one additional year of study. Along the way, you will build the skills, knowledge, and classroom experience to teach and assess students of all abilities, and those from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds, with confidence and care.
Curriculum & Courses
Explore coursework that builds the pedagogical foundations, special education expertise, and classroom-ready skills you need to teach students of all abilities across grades 7-12.
- Approaches to Education for Diverse Learners
- Methods of Educational and Psychological Research
- Nature and Needs of the Exceptional Individual
- Literacy Instruction for Diverse Learners
- Approaches to Teaching Literature for Diverse Learners (K-12)
- Psycho-Educational Assessment for the At Risk, English Language Learner [ELL] and Disabled Student
- Improvement of Instruction for Teachers of Diverse Learners
- Integrated Learning: Social Studies & Language Arts Instruction for Diverse Learners
- Curriculum, Assessment and Methods of Teaching English as a Second Language in Gen and Spe Ed.
- Seminar & Internship in Secondary Special Education
Academic Concentrations
All future adolescent education teachers complete a concentration of at least 30 credits in one of the following content areas: Biology, Chemistry, English, Mathematics, Physics, Social Studies, or Spanish and Latin American Studies. To view the full curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
Why Study in New York City
New York City is one of the world's richest classrooms for future teachers. Its public school system is the largest in the nation, serving more than a million students across thousands of schools, and it has one of the most diverse student populations anywhere. From the Bronx to all five boroughs, Manhattan University students complete fieldwork and student teaching in urban and suburban districts, preparing them to teach children of all abilities, languages, and backgrounds. This hands-on experience, paired with close faculty mentorship, builds the confidence and classroom skills that set our graduates apart in a competitive field.
The courses I took as an education student greatly influenced my development as an educator and my ability to succeed in the classroom. Through the classes I took at Manhattan, I became skilled in lesson planning, differentiating instruction for students with disabilities and ELLs, understanding various classroom management strategies, and designing engaging social studies instruction. The information and skills I learned while attending Manhattan have become greatly applicable to my everyday life as a teacher.
Alyssa Anderson
'22, M.S.Ed. '23 Social Studies Teacher for NYCDOE at Jonas Bronck Academy
Potential Careers
Graduates are prepared for New York State certification in both childhood and special education, qualifying them to teach and support students of all abilities across grades 1-6 in public, private, and specialized school settings.
- High School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- Teacher Assistant
- Middle School Principal
About
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information
Start Your Journey in Adolescent and Special Education
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements and key deadlines below to take the next step toward a future in data-driven business.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.