/ Education Department

Special Education

Special Education at Hope College prepares future teachers to meet the needs of P–12 students with learning disabilities (LD) and emotional impairments (EI).

In four years, students can earn a certificate in the following areas:

  • A certificate in elementary education (PreK–6) and a P–12 endorsement in learning disabilities and/or emotional impairments. 
    OR
  • A certificate in a secondary education (5–12) content area and a P–12 endorsement in learning disabilities or emotional impairments. 

Each pathway allows you to teach in a special education or a general education classroom. 

Four-Year Plans

Before admission to the Education Department, each student meets with a special education advisor to create a 4-year plan that includes all required Anchor Plan and major/minor requirements. During this meeting, students will be asked, "Who do you want to teach?" Your answer will determine which plan is created.

*You do have the ability to select both emotional impairments and learning disabilities, but it is dependent on your major selection; not all majors have the time availability to fit both minors in. 

Elementary education + SpED 

  • Elementary Education + Emotional Impairment 
  • Elementary Education + Learning Disabilities 

Secondary content + SpED 

  • Secondary English + Emotional Impairment 
  • Secondary Math + Emotional Impairment 
  • Secondary Social Studies + Emotional Impairment 

  • Secondary English + Learning Disabilities 
  • Secondary Math + Learning Disabilities 
  • Secondary Social Studies + Learning Disabilities 

What our graduates are saying

“Every professor I have had put forth effort to get to know me on a personal level, which impacted me greatly as a student and a person… I have loved the connections I have made through my Special Education classes and am grateful for the overall passion to support individuals with disabilities.

“I couldn't have done it without Hope's Education Department!”

—Amanda B.
Class of 2025
__________________

“At Hope College, our
Special Education
department and faculty
embody the spirit of
inclusivity, compassion
and unwavering dedication,
supporting me in countless
ways.”

—Greta V.
Class of 2025

Hope CollegeEducation Department

Van Zoeren Hall41 Graves PlaceRoom 288Holland, MI 49423

workP. 616.395.7740