The undergraduate program for the bachelor of science in education and a basic teacher certification includes the liberal studies program (51 to 62 credit hours) and professional studies (66 to 72 credit hours). Students who choose to study for more than a single teaching certificate are likely to exceed the minimum credit hours (128) required for the baccalaureate degree.

Through a partnership between the Special Education and Elementary Education Departments, students can earn certification to teach in special education programs grades K-12 and in Elementary Education programs grades K-6. This Dual Certification is ideal for today's educator who must meet the challenges of delivering services in inclusive settings. Graduates who choose jobs as special educators are prepared to meet the needs of students by serving as coordinators of Instructional Support Teams, providing direct instruction, and collaborating with teachers in adapting instruction. Graduates who choose jobs in elementary education are prepared to teach and work with teams to deliver services to special pupils who are now educated in the general education classroom.

Another focus in undergraduate special education is to prepare professionals to serve individuals with disabilities in non-public school settings through the Community Programs for Americans with Disabilities program. Students who successfully complete the CPAD program earn a bachelor of science in education and may be eligible for many civil service classifications. These job areas include case managers, program supervisors, sheltered living specialists, sheltered employment supervisors, and mental health/mental retardation specialists. Graduates of the CPAD program are not eligible for teacher certification

Our program is flexible and allows students to seek dual certification or a dual major in a variety of other programs. We assist students pursuing a dual major in Special Education and other areas such as Secondary Education, Modern Languages, Physical Education and Music. Your advisor will assist in planning a program to fit your needs.

This program is designed to provide the elementary or secondary education teacher candidate with a basic foundation in the field of special education and an overview of the special needs of exceptional persons. Students may enroll in the five course minor or may opt to enroll in any of the courses as electives.

The post-baccalaureate program in special education allows students who have earned a baccalaureate degree and elementary education teacher certification to or as is an additional certification in Special Education. Students who have a baccalaureate degree in a field other than education, may earn their teacher certification in a special Education program which includes student teaching. Application for post-baccalaureate study is made through the Office of Admissions.