Special Education - BS

During your time in the program, you will take courses in the foundation of education, special education, methods and materials in teaching, practicums and student teaching. Through these courses, you will acquire and apply teaching methods, learning strategies and instructional interventions based on sound research and best practices. 

To qualify for graduation, you will complete 126 credit hours, including:

Core course topic areas 

• Education of Exceptional Children
• Assessment of Exceptional Children
• Methods and Materials of Teaching
• Practicums and Student Teaching

Recent elective courses

• Child Health and Nutrition
• Children's Literature
• Technology for Teachers

Want to learn more about the program's curriculum? 

Program of Study

During your time at UDC, we encourage you to pursue campus- and department-sponsored service learning and community-based research opportunities with community organizations, nonprofits, schools and other groups in the local area.

Interested in joining one of our student organizations or activities? Browse our available options and find the one(s) for you!

• Council for Exceptional Children: The voice and vision of special education; the premier association for special education professionals. 
• Early Childhood Education Club: This student-led club volunteers, tutors and hosts fundraisers for children in the District of Columbia.
• Association for Childhood Education International: The ACEI works to promote and support the optimal education, development and well-being of children and youth around the world. 
• National Association for the Education of Young Children: The NAEYC is the largest national early childhood organization, and membership is encouraged by our faculty.

During your time in the program, you will learn to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy.
• Communicate effectively.
• Utilize effective classroom and behavior management techniques.
• Design, implement and assess developmentally appropriate teaching/learning activities.
• Understand and demonstrate respect for individual needs and diversity.
• Integrate instructional and assistive technology to enhance learning for all students.
• Commit to continuous growth through reflection and professional development.
• Advocate change to improve education for students, school system and self; display leadership qualities.
• Effectively collaborate with students, parents, colleagues, schools and communities.

After completing the special education program, you will be prepared for a variety of rewarding career paths, particularly in urban educational settings, including:

• Special Education Teacher: Pursue a position as a special education teacher in either public or private schools, working directly with children and youth with special needs, implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), and providing support in academic, social, and behavioral areas. 
• Resource Room Teacher: Specialize in providing support within resource rooms or specialized classrooms in urban school settings. In this position, you would have the opportunity to work with small groups of students with disabilities, offering targeted instruction and support to help them succeed both academically and socially.
• Behavior Intervention Specialist: Pursue a role that focuses on addressing behavioral challenges in students with special needs, as well as collaborating with teachers, parents and other professionals to develop and implement behavior intervention plans, fostering positive behavior and creating supportive learning environments.
• Education Advocate: Work in a position that supports families of children with special needs in navigating the educational system and advocating for appropriate services and accommodations. In this position, you would play a crucial role in ensuring that children receive the support they need to succeed in school. 
• Graduate Studies: Before taking a step in the professional world, you may be interested in pursuing an advanced degree in special education or other related fields to further specialize in areas such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, or behavioral disorders. With an advanced degree, you could access opportunities for leadership roles in education, research or policy development.

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