Program Overview

The Bachelor's of Individualized Study with a concentration in Special Education is designed for students who have earned their transferable associate's degree and are working as instructional assistants. Completers of this program earn a bachelor's degree and are eligible for a Virginia teaching license in both K-12 Special Education endorsement areas (adapted and general).

Eligibility Criteria

• Students with a transferable associate degree from a VCCS college.
  • A transferable associate degree from any VCCS institution will provide the smoothest transition to BIS coursework.
  • Students accepted into the program without a transferable associate degree may have to complete general education requirements not transferred into JMU. Therefore, it is essential to note that a student may have to take more courses in addition to their program courses.
• Students who have completed a minimum of 30 transferable college credits.
• Students who want to become special education teachers in VA (K-12).
• Students who need an online program and are continuously employed as an instructional assistant in a Special Education K-12: Accessing the General Curriculum classroom and/or Special Education K-12: Adapted Curriculum classroom. Other relevant employment considered on a case-by-case basis.

Field Experiences

• Generally in a public school K-12 grade classroom.
• Student teach across two semesters in a public school K-12 grade classroom.
• One placement must be in a SPED general curriculum classroom and one placement in a SPED adapted curriculum classroom.
• One placement must be in an elementary school classroom and one placement must be in a middle/high school classroom.

Program Requirements

• About 60 credit hours at JMU plus your transferable associate's degree (or approved credit) will meet the 120 credit hours required for a bachelor's degree.
• Synchronous program courses.
• Passing scores on the following assessments are required for degree and licensure:
  • ALEKS Math Assessment at JMU.
  • Praxis Teaching Reading: Elementary (5205).

Program Highlights

• Online, synchronous classes.
• Designed for working paraprofessionals.
• Completion leads to bachelor's degree & eligibility for VA licensure.
• Cohort model - Fall start.

James Madison University

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Overview:

James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus.

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Services Offered:

JMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, career planning services, tutoring, and academic advising.

Student Life:

Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and student government.

Health and Wellness:

Campus health center, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

JMU boasts a vibrant and active student body with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

Living on Campus:

A variety of residence halls and apartment-style living options.

Clubs and Organizations:

Over 300 student organizations catering to diverse interests.

Spirit and Traditions:

Strong school spirit with numerous sporting events, concerts, and other campus traditions.

Harrisonburg:

A charming town with a thriving arts and culture scene, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, education, and the arts.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and personal growth.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Affordable Education:

JMU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

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Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A diverse selection of majors across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and public administration.

Research Opportunities:

Opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects with faculty mentors.

Study Abroad:

Programs to study abroad in various countries around the world.