Bachelor of Science in Special Education

OVERVIEW

The special education major meets a critical need across all 50 states for more teachers of children with disabilities. Upon completing this degree, students will be certified to teach mildly disabled children in grades K-8 and consult with teachers, children, and parents.

Students can become certified in both elementary education and special education by the addition of one semester of schooling to complete student teaching in both areas. New regulations require special educators to not only collaborate with general education teachers, but to provide content instruction that is academically demanding and pedagogically sound. Therefore, the dual training provides greater accountability for the special educator.

At a Glance

  • Rigorous curriculum and on-site classroom experience ensures that students are prepared to handle the particular demands of special education.
  • Students can earn dual certification in special education and elementary education, making them more desirable hires to future employers.
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CURRICULUM

Students majoring in special education will take a series of courses designed to ensure that they are competent special educators. This sequence will lead to the “highly qualified status” required of the No Child Left Behind legislation for special educators. Please note, a grade of “C” or above is required for all education courses. A student receiving a grade below “C” will be required to retake the course.

Full-time student teaching is the culminating event for seniors in education. This experience provides an extensive on-site, 15-week opportunity to work with a certified special educator and practice the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom setting.

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Meet Our Faculty

SOME OF OUR FACULTY

Kathleen Clements
Kathleen ClementsAssistant Professor of Education, Chair of Education, Director of Teacher Education
EdD, Northcentral University, Arizona MS, University of Houston, Clear Lake BA, Boston College

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Kevin Mahoney
Kevin MahoneyAssistant Professor
EdD, Northeastern University MSED, Lesley University BS, Providence College

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Patricia Waters
Patricia WatersAssistant Professor of Education
PhD, University of Rochester MS, Pace University BA, University of Rochester

Learn more about Patricia

STUDENT STORIES

Ashley Hussey
Ashley HusseyClass of 2017
“The best thing about being a special education major and the education program is the experience that you get in the classroom through practicums and internships. They very much prepare us for student teaching and for becoming a teacher.”
Michaela Lothrop
Michaela LothropClass of 2018
“Special education chose me. I wanted to work with children who were misunderstood, or cast aside because they were not like other students. I hope in my career to help parents understand their child’s learning challenges and deficits and help fellow teachers bridge the learning gaps within their inclusionary rooms.”
Natalie Landry
Natalie LandryClass of 2018
“What makes the B.S. in Special Education program at Saint Joseph’s College different from other schools? Our professors not only teach us how to teach, they invest in their students and show us quality teaching. I’m proud to go to SJC!”

CAREER MOVES

Explore how to utilize a degree in special education and begin a rewarding career.

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