Amber Qureshi, a senior lecturer in the Biology Department at UW-River Falls, advises incoming UWRF students during New Student Registration in May. Students will now have two additional degree programs to explore, including a Master of Science in special education and a Bachelor of Science in integrated studies. Both programs are enrolling students for the fall 2025 semester.
 

UW-River Falls launches two new degree programs, expanding opportunities for students

New programs include Master of Science in special education, customizable Bachelor of Science in integrated studies

June 19, 2025 - Students at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls will soon have two new academic paths to choose from, including a Master of Science in special education and a Bachelor of Science in integrated studies. The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents recently approved both programs, which will begin enrolling students for the fall 2025 semester.
 
The Master of Science in special education offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The program also includes field experiences, practicums and research opportunities, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings. The program is tailored for working professionals, with classes offered online.
 
The program offers options for educators who already hold a bachelor’s degree with or without a Tier 2 teaching license. Graduates will be licensed as cross-categorical special education teachers in Wisconsin and Academic and Behavior Strategists in Minnesota.
 
“We are excited to offer this new program to support educators who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities,” said Program Director Satomi Shinde. “Dual-state licensing will offer graduates a broad range of opportunities and help to address the shortage of special education teachers in both states.”
 
The Bachelor of Science in integrated studies is a customizable degree option, allowing students to design a degree to match their unique personal and professional goals.
 
“This degree program allows students to design their curriculum to align precisely with their career aspirations, particularly those who aspire to careers in evolving or emerging fields, as well as returning students with some college credit but no degree,” said Karl Peterson, dean of the UWRF College of Arts and Sciences. “We are excited to partner with students to chart their unique paths and explore new career options in a fast-changing world.”
 
For more information on the Master of Science in special education, visit uwrf.edu/academics/master-science-special-education-mse.
 
For more information on the Bachelor of Science in integrated studies, email CAS@uwrf.edu or call 715-425-3777. Learn more about UWRF’s full array of undergraduate and graduate degree offerings.