What does it mean to work in an EBD classroom?

When people think of teaching, they often imagine rows of desks, neat lesson plans, and eager students. But for those working in emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) classrooms, the reality is both more challenging and more rewarding. 

So, what is EBD?

Emotional and behavioral disorders refer to a range of mental health and behavioral challenges that affect a student’s ability to learn and thrive in traditional classroom settings. These challenges can include anxiety disorders, depression, oppositional defiant disorder, hyperactivity, or severe behavior disruptions. EBD students may require different environments, personalized support plans, and, like all students, need adults who believe in their potential, especially when others might not. 

What it’s like to teach in an EBD setting

Teaching in an EBD classroom means showing up every day with compassion, resilience, and patience. You’re not just teaching academic knowledge, but also helping students regulate their emotions, build trust, and gain the social tools they need to succeed. You’ll work closely with families, collaborate with school staff, and adapt constantly to students’ evolving needs. 

Is it challenging? Absolutely. 

But is it rewarding? Always.

You may be the first adult to believe in a student. You might witness a breakthrough that no one thought was possible. And you will never doubt that your work matters. 

Why get a degree in EBD?

Given the complexity of student needs, EBD teachers require specialized training to effectively support their students. A strong EBD program will prepare you to: 

• Build a strong relationship with students and families
• Develop effective, individualized education programs (IEPs) for students that support academic, health, and behavior needs
• Conduct behavior assessments and data collection methods and procedures to create effective behavior intervention plans 
• Design research-based behavior interventions that contribute to students’ success

Most importantly, it helps you to show up confidently in classrooms that demand everything, but give even more in return. 

Why choose the University of Minnesota?

If you’re considering entering this meaningful field, the University of Minnesota offers one of the strongest special education programs in the nation, ranked #10 nationally by U.S. News and World Report (2025). 

The emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) licensure and MEd program is: 

• 100% online coursework, with in-person field placements in your community 
• Designed to be completed in about 2.5 years
• Led by award-winning faculty and backed by 14 active research projects
• Built for flexibility so you can learn while working 

Want to broaden your job options? With just two additional courses, you can easily earn dual licensure in Academic Behavior Strategist (ABS) and EBD. You can also add an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) certificate to gain specialized skills in supporting students on the autism spectrum.

You’ll graduate ready for one of the fastest-rising, in-demand roles in education, and you’ll be equipped to make a real difference from day one. 

Working in EBD is not for everyone, but if you’re someone who believes every child deserves a champion, it may be the right fit for you. And if you’re ready to take the next step, the University of Minnesota is waiting for you. 

Learn more about the EBD program at the University of Minnesota.