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Concordia University, Nebraska Launches Two New Graduate Education Programs

Seward, NE (04/22/2026) — Concordia University, Nebraska today announced the launch of two new graduate programs beginning in August 2026. These programs are designed to address critical workforce shortages in education while expanding access to high-quality, mission-driven professional preparation.

The new offerings include a Master of Education in Special Education with Initial Certification and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction with Computer Science Endorsement.

The M.Ed. in Special Education with Initial Certification responds directly to the growing need for qualified special education teachers. Nearly half of public schools reported special education vacancies in 2022-2024, often filling positions with underqualified teachers or long-term substitutes.

This program is designed for individuals who feel called to enter the teaching profession, including individuals currently teaching in Nebraska schools under an alternative or provisional certificate and career changers seeking a faith-based pathway into special education.

The alternative-track program allows students to earn their teaching certification while completing a graduate degree, equipping them with both professional credentials and Christ-centered formation to serve effectively in schools and communities.

"Special education has been the most consistently reported teacher shortage area since the 1990s, with data showing 48 states facing shortages as far back as 1990," said Dr. Sue Showers, program director of the Master of Education in Special Education. "Research indicates that the demand for special education teachers has consistently outpaced supply for over 30 years."

Also launching in Fall 2026, the M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction with Computer Science Endorsement prepares educators to integrate computer science into 7-12 classrooms and earn endorsement from the Nebraska Department of Education. With a strong emphasis on curriculum design, instructional leadership and innovation, the program supports teachers seeking a computer science endorsement, schools responding to increased demand for computer science and technology education and educational leaders focused on future-ready learning models.

"This program equips teachers with the essential skills and content knowledge to successfully teach computer science and technology in today's classrooms while helping school districts meet the growing demand for qualified instructors," said Dr. Ken Sankey, director of the M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction program.

Both programs underscore Concordia Nebraska's ongoing mission to serve the church and the world by equipping educators who are professionally prepared, mission-driven and ready to lead with purpose in today's classrooms.

For more information about Concordia Nebraska's graduate programs, visit cune.edu/graduate.

About Concordia University, Nebraska

Concordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited, coeducational university of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod located in Seward, Nebraska, which currently serves more than 1,700 students. Concordia offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world. For more information, visit cune.edu.

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