Academic Programs
Special Education (CAEP Accredited)
Overview
At Bluefield University, the Special Education: General Curriculum K-12 teacher licensure degree equips you with the skills, compassion, and confidence to serve students with diverse learning needs. This undergraduate program prepares you to become a licensed special education teacher, ready to create inclusive classrooms, support individualized learning, and advocate for every student’s success.
Through a combination of hands-on classroom experience, evidence-based instruction, and personalized faculty mentorship, you’ll graduate ready to meet the growing demand for qualified special education teachers across Virginia and beyond.
Special Education Degree Opportunities
Purpose-Driven Preparation
At Bluefield, your calling to teach meets real-world preparation. You’ll learn how to support students with a wide range of abilities, including learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and developmental challenges.
Built-In Teacher Licensure
This program is designed to meet Virginia teacher licensure requirements, preparing you for certification so you can step confidently into the classroom after graduation. (Students will receive a Virginia teaching license that they can use to obtain licensure in other states, once those state’s requirements are met)
Hands-On Classroom Experience
From early field experiences to student teaching placements, you’ll gain practical, in-classroom training that builds confidence and competence.
Supportive Faculty Mentorship
Our experienced education faculty provide personalized guidance, helping you grow both professionally and personally throughout your journey.
Quick Program Details
Tuition: $420 Per Credit Hour
Next Start On-Campus: January 2027
Next Start Online: October 2026
Time to Complete: 1-4 years*
*Time to complete can be reduced with prior learning and transfer credits
Career Outlook
Graduates of Bluefield University’s Special Education degree program are prepared for meaningful, in-demand careers.
Career paths include:
- Special Education: General Curriculum Teacher (K–12)
- Resource or Inclusion Teacher
- Behavioral Support Specialist
- Case Manager for Special Education Services
- Educational Advocate
With a nationwide shortage of qualified special education professionals, this degree positions you for strong job placement opportunities and long-term career impact.
Courses & Competencies
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Total Credits: 123 (Includes Student Teaching)
For a full breakdown of each course, reference the academic catalog located in Academic Resources.
General Education Requirements
- Intro to the Writing Process
- Argumentative & Analytical Writing
- Biblical Perspectives
- Developing the Christian Mind
- World Civilizations I
- World Civilizations II
- General Biology with Lab
- Intro to Physical Science with Lab
- Intro to Psychology
- Fundamentals of Speech
- College Algebra
- Mathematics for Educators
- Personal Wellness
- ESS Activity Course
- University Foundations: Purpose and Pathways
- Career Foundations: Preparation and Professionalism
*Course or requirement includes multiple options. Online offerings may differ.
Core Requirements
- Modern English Grammar
- Children and Adolescent Literature for Educators
- Regional & Ethnic Literature
- US History
- History of Virginia
- Government (Choose 1)
- American Government & Politics
- State & Local Government
- History of American Government & Politics
- Principles of Macroeconomics
- Intro to Statistics
- General Chemistry OR Chemistry Culture
Human Biology & Lab OR Human Anatomy & Physiology & Lab
Professional Requirements
- Human Growth & Development for Educators
- Foundations of Education
- Intro to Instructional Media & Technology
- Reading & Language Arts
- Diagnostic & Remedial Reading
- Intro to the Exceptional Child
- Methods in Teaching PreK-6 Mathematics
- Assessment & Evaluation in Special Education
- Teaching Students with Disabilities for Success in the General Curriculum
- Collaboration & Transition for Students with Disabilities
- Dynamic Learning Environments
- (Must be taken prior to Student Teaching
Field Requirements
- Student Teaching
- (Taken in the final semester)
Required Testing
- Praxis Teaching Reading: Elementary