Special education is the study of the best ways to teach and improve the lifestyles of children, youth and adults with disabilities. Students pursuing this degree may choose to earn teacher licensure for grades K-8, or grades 6-12 with a specific content focus of English, Math, Biology, or Social Studies. This discipline includes understanding the broad spectrum of disabilities as well as acquiring strategies for working with students with learning or cognitive disabilities and those with behavioral, emotional or physical impairments. Students in licensure programs also engage in extensive clinical experiences in public schools for hands-on training in pedagogy, professional collaboration, and classroom management.