NYU Steinhardt offers dual-certification M.A. programs in Early Childhood Education and Special Education: Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 2) and Childhood Education and Special Education: Childhood (Grades 1-6). Both programs are open to participants who have a bachelor's degree but who are not yet certified to teach. The M.A. programs in Special Education: Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 2) and Special Education: Childhood (Grades 1-6) are open to participants who have a bachelor’s degree and who hold certification or are eligible for certification in Early Childhood or Childhood Education. At NYU, our graduate students recognize that special education is neither a place nor is it a group of students. Rather, special education refers to specialized services or environmental modifications, differentiated instruction, adapted curricula, or other supports that are provided to students with disabilities. Our graduates view all children and their families as individuals with varying degrees of skills and untapped potential for quality lives in schools, work, and recreation in their communities. Respecting the critical role that families play in the lives of children and the multidimensional nature of providing quality services, our graduates are prepared to work collaboratively with families, professionals, and community organizations that represent wide varieties of urban communities. Observation, fieldwork, and student teaching placements enable participants to apply their knowledge and skills while working with children representing the full range of abilities and disabilities, in a variety of settings, and within the full age range of the teaching certificate. Though graduate students have the option of beginning the program part time, they must be available during the school day throughout the program to participate in observations and fieldwork. Once the participants begin student teaching, however, a full-time commitment is required.