Bachelor of Science in Special Education
OVERVIEW
The Special Education major meets a critical need for teachers wishing to work with students with disabilities. Upon completion of this degree students will be certified to teach children with mild disabilities in grades K-12. They will also be able to consult with other teachers, parents and children.
Special Education continues to be a critical shortage area as designated by the Federal Government. Therefore, students who choose to teach in special education are eligible for total loan forgiveness. This makes a Special Education degree from Saint Joseph’s College individualized and affordable!
Students who become certified in special education at Saint Joseph’s College also complete the entire elementary education program. 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, this dual training provides greater accountability and allows flexibility when seeking employment opportunities upon graduation.
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.
CURRICULUM
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. Additionally, students may elect to student teach for 7 weeks in elementary education and 8 weeks in special education to become dual certified.