Special Education Transfer Pathway

  • Starting Cost:$4,101*
  • Apply By:August 20, 2026
  • Classes Start:August 24, 2026
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Students with unique needs require teachers who specialize in strategies to help them succeed. Special Education teachers work with students in grades kindergarten through twelfth grade, differentiating and customizing their learning to help students meet their goals.

Students learn skills in:

  • Special education foundations
  • Diverse children and family relations
  • Behavior guidance and mental health
  • Crisis intervention, drug education and intro to medical challenges

Most graduates transfer to a partner Minnesota State university to earn a related bachelor’s degree to pursue the licensure required to become a Minnesota special education teacher.

* Tuition/fees and additional costs are approximate and based on 2025-26 school year.

Program Delivery

  • Three in-person courses are held on Hutchinson or Willmar campuses
  • Other classes are held online with no set meeting time; students attend lectures and access class materials according to their schedule
  • Fall and spring start

Program Cost*

Tuition/Fees

  • AS Transfer Pathway – $14,314
  • Certificate – $4,056

Additional Costs

  • Book costs vary
  • Background check: $45

Program Highlights

The Special Education Transfer Pathway AS is designed for a student to attend a partnered Minnesota State university:

  • Minnesota State University – Mankato
  • Southwest State University – Marshall
  • St. Cloud State University
  • Winona State University

Careers & Jobs

  • Special Education Teacher
  • Special Education Paraprofessional

Faculty

Cindy Salfer

Cindy Salfer

Early Childhood Education Instructor

Tiffany Bredeson

Tiffany Bredeson

Education Instructor

Nancy Hafner

Nancy Hafner

Early Childhood Education Instructor

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