The Pathway for Paraeducators (Option 9) program leads to a bachelor's degree and prepares students for elementary or special education certification. We are in the process of expanding the program to offer an Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education option as well. The paraeducator program is a hybrid, three-year program (including summers) designed for students who are working full-time as paraeducators in local school districts. You will take classes online, in the evenings, and in the summers.
A degree in elementary education prepares students to teach students in the elementary grades, making you eligible for teacher certification in:
A degree in special education prepares students interested in teaching children with mild disabilities; including children with learning disabilities, mild intellectual disabilities, emotional-behavioral disabilities, and orthopedic impairments. Careers in special education can involve a variety of roles, including teaching in self-contained settings, teaching resource classes, co-teaching with general education teachers, supporting general education teachers through consultation, and/or some combination of these roles. Special education certification covers primary through Grade 12, and special educators are likely to teach and support students in a variety of subjects.
[Coming Soon] With a degree in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE), you can:
As you work toward your degree, you will complete observation hours in the classroom. Pathway for Paraeducator (Option 9) students work with their districts to find placements in their certification area. You will take classes and move through the program with a cohort of peers for support.
Paraeducators can increase their earning potential through this licensure pathway. ONET Online showed the Median Teacher Assistant Salary as $35,550 and the Median Teacher Income as $62,690.
Northern Kentucky Salary Comparison based on an average of two Northern Kentucky county districts' salary scales in 2024:
Years Experience |
2024-25 Average NKY District Paraeducator Salary |
2024-25 Average NKY District Teacher Salary - Rank III (Bachelor’s) |
0 |
$17,153.50 ($14.50/hr) |
$46,250 |
5 |
$19,046.30 ($16.10/hr) |
$50,100 |
10 |
$20,702.50 ($17.50/hr) |
$54,700 |
Elementary teaching requires a wide knowledge base. You will learn foundational theories about child development and schooling. Additionally, you will learn cutting edge methods for teaching and supporting children in learning to read and write effectively, apply mathematical skills, and achieve the processes and knowledge involved in social studies and science.
Special education teachers have the opportunity to have a positive, lasting impact on the lives of children and youth with disabilities. Special educators are responsible for providing specially designed instruction to these students by adapting and developing materials that match the special needs of each individual. Special education majors develop the knowledge and skills needed to work with students, families, and other professionals to ensure that students with disabilities reach their learning potential.
If you want to have the state of Kentucky teaching license to work with children (birth through five years) with and without special needs, the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education (IECE) program is for you! You will learn how to develop engaging, hands-on activities and collaborate with adults (families and other professionals) to help young children develop and learn.
College of Education Advising Center
859-572-6944
Our NKU Teacher Education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Northern Kentucky University
Mathematics Education Psychology Center
Nunn Drive
Highland Heights, KY 41099
Local: +1 (859) 572-6069
Email: coedean@nku.edu
