Program Overview

The department offers the Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) degree with a major in Elementary Education K-6, the Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) degree with a major in Special Education K-12 and the Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) in Elementary Education K-6 and Special Education Dual Licensure. A general description and course requirements of the Elementary Education K-6 major are outlined in section 3.1 while section 3.2 provides the same information on the Special Education K-12 major, and section 3.3 articulates the program details for the Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) degree in Elementary Education K-6 with Special Education licensure.

The K-6 & Special Education dual licensure degree completion program will be available to students in January 2024.

This online, performance-based undergraduate program-completion pathway for dual licensure in elementary education and special education is designed to prepare candidates for positions as teachers in grades K-6 and Special Education K-12, which will prepare them to address the needs of all students, including those with disabilities. Upon completion of the program, candidates are expected

1. to understand and apply knowledge related to the social, historical, and philosophical foundations of elementary and special education.
2. to possess knowledge and skills to effectively teach all content areas including literacy/reading, mathematics, science, and social studies.
3. to know the way children learn and develop.
4. to use knowledge of how children learn and develop to design and implement age appropriate instruction.
5. to understand language acquisition, cultural influences on learning, emotional and social development, exceptionalities, diverse student populations, and inclusion and equity in classrooms and schools.
6. to integrate technology into instruction and learning.
7. to use research and developmentally appropriate practices in their teaching.
8. to know the roles and responsibilities of the profession of teaching.
9. 
   

The program also recognizes the changing and complex role of educators working with students with and without disabilities, and as such, prepares candidates

1. to provide support and instruction to students in the regular education classroom (Grades K-6) as well as those with cognitive, physical, behavior, multiple, and/or health disabilities from kindergarten through 12th grade.
2. to access the general education curriculum demonstrating a strong knowledge and skill set in academic content areas for instructing students with disabilities.
3. to effectively collaborate and work closely with other teachers, related service personnel, administrators, and families to ensure all students are given every opportunity to reach their full potential.

The prerequisite for admission to this program is an earned associate degree that conforms to existing 2+2 transfer agreements between UCA and partner institutions. In the absence of the conforming associate degree, admissibility may be verified by review of transcripts.

Abbreviation Key – UCA Core Program

LD = Lower Division

UD = Upper Division

C = Effective Communication

D = Diversity

I = Critical Inquiry

R = Responsible Living

Z = Capstone Experience