Social Studies / Elementary Education / General Special Education (B.S.)

Program Overview

This dual certification program prepares individuals for teaching in elementary education (K-5) and general special education (K-12) in New Hampshire. It combines field-based experience with mentorship and coursework, leading to eligibility for state certification in both areas. Graduates are highly qualified in elementary education and meet the requirements for state certification.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Individuals who complete this dual certification program will be eligible for the New Hampshire Department of Education teacher certification in Elementary Education (K-5) and General Special Education (K-12). This is a field-based program for qualified participants working or volunteering in approved programs or education settings. The key components of this program include mentorship of the teacher candidates by highly skilled professionals in the field, the hands-on experience of working with children in educational settings, and the opportunity to build your teaching capacity over time. Graduates of this program will be eligible for certification in elementary education and general special education. Additionally, graduates of this program will be highly qualified in elementary education.

Outline:

Core Curriculum Required:

General Education Program Major, Option and Elective Requirements as indicated.

• GPA: Major and any state certification GPA requirements may be higher and are indicated in program details.
A minimum grade of C- is required in all Major coursework. Students are allowed a maximum of two course overlaps. Overlaps can be used between Major, Minor, and General Education requirements with only one overlap being utilized between the Major and Minor. Please note that Option requirements are considered part of the Major. Students must complete 16 upper-level credits in majors within the College of Professional Studies, Online.

General Education Program Requirements

A minimum grade of D- is required in all General Education coursework. Students are allowed a maximum of two course overlaps. Overlaps can be used between Major, Minor and General Education requirements with only one overlap being utilized between the Major and Minor. All General Education requirements, including CRIT 602 Advanced Critical Analysis and Strategic Thinking and IDIS 601 Interdisciplinary Seminar, must be taken prior to the capstone.

Writing Program Requirements

All bachelor's degree candidates are required to complete four writing intensive courses as part of the University Writing Program Requirements as follows:

Major Requirements

A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for state certification. Prior to capstone enrollment, students are expected to complete the majority of their required major courses along with CRIT 602 Advanced Critical Analysis and Strategic Thinking and IDIS 601 Interdisciplinary Seminar. Students should consult with their advisor regarding specific major courses that may be completed with their capstone. Academic Advisor approval is required for registration to be processed.

State Certification Requirements

The following requirements must be completed in order to be recommended to the state for Teacher Certification:

• A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for state certification
• Praxis Core Academic Skills For Educators Exam required.
Passing Praxis Core Exam scores must be submitted prior to taking EDC 700 Introduction to Field Experience and Program Requirements .
• Praxis II-Multiple Subject or Middle School Content Exam Required.
Students must attempt to pass a Praxis II exam prior to taking the Culminating Teaching Experience & Seminar. Passing exam scores are required for State Certification.
• Pearson Foundations of Reading Exam required.