Teacher of Students with Disabilities

  • Teacher Certification
A teacher in a classroom helps a young elementary school student with a coloring assignment.

If you’re ready to make your classroom more inclusive and responsive to all learners, Montclair’s Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TSD) Certification will give you the knowledge and skills to support students with diverse needs.

Designed for New Jersey teachers who have an initial certification in either Early Childhood (P-3), Elementary Education (K-6), or Subject Area (P-12) this program prepares you to work effectively with students with disabilities in inclusive, resource and self-contained settings. You’ll study special education law, assessment, differentiated instruction, and strategies for collaboration with families and school teams.

Coursework also covers instructional methods for students with various disabilities, including approaches that build on strengths and promote independence. Faculty with expertise in special education and inclusive education provide practical guidance you can apply immediately in your classroom, so you can better meet the needs of every student you teach.

The hybrid program allows you to complete your certification requirements while continuing to teach full time. Upon completion, you’ll be eligible for the New Jersey TSD endorsement – broadening your professional opportunities and expanding your impact.

If you want to ensure all students can learn, grow, and succeed, Montclair’s TSD Additional Certification will help you get there.

See the Curriculum.

Get the Best of Both Worlds

Mix online and in-person courses built around your schedule in this hybrid program.

You’ll get the courses you need on your time, and be able to continue teaching – without sacrificing your life or career to do it.

Are You Certified?

If you’re interested in our Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification, you’ll need to have an initial certification in Early Childhood (P-3), Elementary Education (K-6), or Subject Area (P-12) to be admitted to the program.

If you don’t possess an initial certification, you can pursue Montclair’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, which gives you the ability to pursue a master’s degree and dual certification – including this Teacher of Students with Disabilities Certification

The MAT Early Childhood (P-3) Dual Certification program is a 54-credit graduate program designed to teach and advocate for young learners from preschool through Grade 3. This program prepares students to create nurturing, developmentally appropriate learning environments that are responsive to children's unique backgrounds, abilities, and identities. 

Master of Arts in Teaching 

See the curriculum.

Pursue the MAT Elementary Dual Certification (K–6) program – a 54-credit graduate pathway designed to teach and advocate for young learners from kindergarten through Grade 6. Rooted in principles of promoting access and opportunity for all, this program prepares educators to respond to the academic, social, and emotional needs of children in today’s classrooms. 

Master of Arts in Teaching 

See the curriculum.

Pursue the MAT Subject Area (P–12) program – a comprehensive 54-credit graduate pathway designed to prepare educators to teach a subject-area and advocate across all grade levels with the tools to engage diverse learners through differentiated instruction and inclusive practices. Educators learn to create dynamic, supportive learning environments that affirm each student’s identity, background, and learning style, while fostering academic excellence and rightful education across disciplines. 

Master of Arts in Teaching 

See the curriculum.

Additional Requirements

To apply, you’ll need:

  • Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
  • Topic Essay (included in online application)
  • Two letters of recommendation from professionals in the field
  • Copy of teacher certification (CEAS or Standard Certification)
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.

Hear from Our Students

Don’t just take our word for it. Hear from a current student about the impact this program will have on you.

I love all of our professors and I love the opportunities that they give us, including the Educators Exchange, where we get to meet people from all over the place and really be ourselves while also looking for some awesome job opportunities.

Anthon Gachetti
hawk icon

Related Programs

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

For questions about this program or information about how to enroll, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Graduate Admissions Office

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Talida State

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Priya Lalvani

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.