Many professionals work with persons with disabilities in a variety of venues other than schools and do not require the same pedagogical knowledge base expected of special education teachers. However, to effectively advocate for and work with individuals with disabilities, it is imperative that professionals have a solid background in a variety of topics central to the provision of supports for individuals with disabilities.
Completion of the Exceptionality and Disability major results in a Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAE) but graduates do not qualify for a teaching certificate. Students who complete this major typically want to work with individuals with disabilities in a variety of non-school settings, such as health and human services, behavioral support clinics, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Interested in working with individuals with disabilities, but not quite sure? Please feel free to contact someone in the Department of Special Education and Education Leadership. You might even be interested in our GUR course, EDUC 205 Disability, Diversity and Media.
Examples of coursework include:
- SPED 310 - Education, Culture, and Equity
- SPED 472 - Behavior Assessment & Intervention
- SPED 474 & 478 - Supporting Indiviuals with Complex Needs I & II
The Department of Special Education and Educational Leadership is part of Woodring College of Education.