Program Overview
Our Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Special Education prepares highly qualified teacher candidates for professional education certification in grades PreK-12. The Special Education program at WCU is highly regarded among school districts in the South Eastern PA and the Tri-State region due to our extensive early practicum experiences for students; professionally diverse faculty; a high rate of employment opportunities; a sense of collegiality and volunteerism among students; and national, regional, and state approvals, recognition, and accreditations. Our students have many opportunities for engagement with learners with exceptionalities in a variety of special education placements in the local PK-12 schools and may work in urban, suburban, and rural settings with some additional opportunities to study abroad. Get involved: Student Council for Exceptional Children Best Buddies Kappa Delta Pi (Education Honor Society), Chi Alpha Epsilon (Educational Services Honor Society), Service Learning opportunities in the local community and abroad.
B.S.Ed. in Special Education [Stand-Alone]
Will qualify students for PDE (Pk-12) Special Education certification (only).
B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Early Grades Preparation [double major with Early Grades]
Will qualify students for PDE (Pk-12) Special Education certification and certification in PDE (PreK-4) Early Grades preparation.
B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Middle Grades Preparation [double major with Middle Grades]
Will qualify students for PDE (Pk-12) Special Education certification and certification in PDE (4th - 8th ) Middle Grades preparation.
Program Highlights
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Approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education
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Professional Development School (PDS) relationship with the West Chester Area School District allows our teacher candidates to spend the entire school year at their assigned school working closely with their cooperating teacher
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International student teaching experience in Eleuthera, Bahamas
- International Service Learning Experiences in Guatemala, Kenya and Ireland
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Opportunities for collaborative research and conference presentations with faculty experts
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Minors available in Autism Education, Early Intervention and Special Education
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Field placements in public and private schools in suburban, urban, and rural areas
What can I do with this degree?
Our Special Education program prepares teacher candidates to become special education classroom teachers in grades PreK-12. Upon successful completion of the program, and successful completion of Pennsylvania’s Department of Education requirements, candidates apply for Pennsylvania certification. This credential can be used to apply for similar teaching credentials in other states, pending any additional or special requirements. Our students can be found across the state and the nation.