Students completing this dual certification program are eligible to teach in both a mathematics classroom and a special education classroom thereby broadening their job prospects and distinguishing them from the general student population. In addition, as a traditional classroom math teacher, graduates would have the training necessary for effectively dealing with classes in which high numbers of students have Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
A serious national shortage of mathematics (grades 7-12) and special education (Pre-K-12) teachers exists; by 2020 this shortage is expected to reach a critical level, especially in mathematics and science. (U.S. Department of Education, March 2015, Teacher Shortage Areas Nationwide Listing). Dual certification will cultivate a new creative student audience filling the state-wide deficit of students situated to excel in special education mathematics classrooms further fulfilling the growing workforce needs.
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