Program Overview

Introduction to the Special Education Academic Behavioral Strategist Program

The online Bachelor of Science in Special Education Academic Behavioral Strategist degree program at Southwest Minnesota State University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage K-12 special education classrooms and pursue licensure in Minnesota.

Program Details

• The program consists of 25 courses for a total of 69-70 credits.
• It is accredited by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board and the Higher Learning Commission.
• Upon completion, students will be prepared to teach K-12 special education for students with mild to moderate disabilities.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes:

• Standards of Effective Practice Core courses, such as Introduction to Education, Educational Technology, and Child and Adolescent Growth and Development.
• Elementary Education Core courses, including Early Literacy and Linguistics, Literacy Methods, and Elementary Mathematics Methods.
• Special Education courses, such as Foundations in Mild to Moderate Disabilities, Assessment and Educational Planning, and Curriculum Design and Implementation in Special Education.
• Student Teaching experiences, including supervised semester-long field experiences in kindergarten through Grade 12 classrooms.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must meet the SMSU admission requirements.
• A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required, with 3.0 being recommended.
• Official high school transcripts are required, and transfer students must send transcripts from each institution attended.

Tuition and Aid

• The cost per credit hour is $323.30.
• The total estimated cost for the program is $38,796.
• Financial aid options and scholarships are available to qualifying applicants.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the program can pursue careers as special education teachers, with a median salary of $62,950 per year. Other in-demand careers for graduates include behavioral analysts, with a median salary of $70,255 per year.

Faculty and Support

• The program is taught by highly skilled faculty who are experts in their fields.
• Support is available from the SMSU enrollment team and student engagement specialists.

Conclusion

The online Bachelor of Science in Special Education Academic Behavioral Strategist degree program at Southwest Minnesota State University offers a comprehensive and accredited education that prepares students for a rewarding career in special education. With its focus on managing K-12 special education classrooms and pursuing licensure in Minnesota, this program is an excellent choice for those passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of students with special needs.