Special Education and Applied Learning Sciences (SEALS) Unit
In our unit, you will learn how to support students with a wide range of learning, behavioral, and communication needs. Our programs in special education, educational psychology, audiology and speech pathology, and school psychology prepare you to work directly with children, families, and communities. Whether you want to teach, provide support services, or better understand how people learn, you will gain the skills and knowledge to make a real impact.
Supporting Learners. Advancing Practice. Changing Lives.
The SEALS unit blends education and applied learning sciences to prepare professionals who work across classrooms, clinics, and communities. With expertise that spans special education, psychology, and communication sciences, we offer hands-on training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong commitment to meeting the needs of all learners across the lifespan.
Empowering Growth Through Education and Support.
Our areas of study prepare you to support learning and development across educational and clinical settings. Whether you are interested in special education, audiology and speech pathology, educational psychology, or school psychology, our programs combine strong academic foundations with real-world experience. You will gain the skills to work with individuals, families, and schools—and to make a lasting impact across the lifespan.
Explore the areas of study in the SEALS unit
Audiology and Speech Pathology
Audiology and Speech Pathology is an area of study that combines expertise in communication sciences with clinical insight, offered in partnership with the UT Health Science Center to prepare students for advanced training and professional practice.
Educational Psychology
Educational Psychology is an area of study that explores how people learn and develop, equipping students with research-based insights to support effective teaching, assessment, and student well-being.
School Psychology
School Psychology is an area of study that focuses on understanding and supporting the academic, behavioral, and emotional needs of children and youth in school settings through evidence-based assessment and intervention.
Special Education
Special Education is an area of study dedicated to preparing educators to support learners with diverse abilities through inclusive, research-informed practices that promote access and meaningful learning outcomes.
Blending Knowledge, Practice, and Purpose
As a student in the SEALS Unit, you will join a supportive, hands-on learning community that prepares you for real impact in educational and clinical settings. Across all programs, you will experience:
- Applied Learning – Gain practical experience in schools, clinics, and community settings that connect directly to your coursework.
- Faculty Support – Work closely with experienced faculty who mentor and guide you throughout your academic journey.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration – Learn alongside peers in special education, psychology, and communication sciences to approach challenges from multiple perspectives.
- Inclusive, Evidence-Based Practice – Develop skills to support a wide range of learners using proven, research-informed strategies.
Ready to join us on Rocky Top?
Search all of our available programs by clicking the button below.