Special Education

Jumpstart

Your Career in Special Education:
Empowering All Learners

Bachelor of Science in Special Education

Why Choose Bluefield?

Earn your degree faster online

Respected online degree

Competitive tuition rates

Flexible start dates

Financial aid available

Program Overview

Special education teachers hold the incredible power to transform lives by ensuring that every student, regardless of ability or unique challenges, has the opportunity to learn and thrive. Pursuing a degree in special education equips you with the tools and knowledge to confront some of the most urgent issues facing K-12 education today. As a special education major, you’ll delve into the core subjects of English, math, science, and social studies while mastering innovative teaching methods tailored to meet the diverse needs of all learners, including those who are gifted.

At Bluefield University, our program stands out with its Christ-centered approach, cultivating servant leaders who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the classroom. Our dedicated faculty take the time to truly understand you as an individual, guiding you to create imaginative lessons that inspire and engage students facing challenges. From the very beginning of your journey, you’ll gain hands-on experience through valuable classroom observations, setting the stage for a transformative student teaching semester. Join us in this noble mission to empower every child, and together, let’s create a brighter future where all students can soar to their fullest potential!

Your Future, Your Pace

Online learning empowers you to pursue your degree without putting your life on hold. Whether you’re working to advance your career, supporting your family, or taking the next step toward your dreams, an online program offers the flexibility to learn on your schedule.

With the ability to balance coursework alongside your personal and professional commitments, you can achieve your educational goals while continuing to focus on what matters most. It’s the perfect solution for those who want to invest in their future without compromising their present.

100% Online Program

The online Special Education degree offers the flexibility to earn your Bachelor’s entirely online, allowing you to pursue your passion for teaching and supporting diverse learners without disrupting your life. Designed to deliver the same quality as an on-campus education, the program prepares you to empower and guide students with unique learning needs.

Whether you’re starting your journey to become a certified special education teacher or looking to enhance your expertise in inclusive education, this degree equips you with the tools to succeed. It also lays a strong foundation for advanced studies, should you choose to further your career in education.

Quick Facts!

Transfer up to 90 credit hours
Tuition per credit hour $395
Average Salary upon completion (varies by occupation) $61k-$67k

Curriculum & Opportunities

The Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education at Bluefield University combines a comprehensive curriculum with practical experience to prepare students for impactful careers in education. Courses focus on key areas such as individualized instruction, behavior management, and inclusive teaching strategies, while field experiences and student teaching provide opportunities to apply your skills in diverse classroom settings.

Graduates are equipped to become licensed special education teachers, ready to support students with unique learning needs and advocate for their success. With a strong foundation and hands-on expertise, this program empowers you to lead and inspire in inclusive educational environments.

Faculty & Advantages

At Bluefield University, the Special Education program is led by dedicated faculty with extensive experience working in inclusive classrooms and supporting students with diverse needs. Their practical expertise ensures that coursework is enriched with real-world insights, bridging the gap between theory and application.

With small class sizes, you’ll benefit from personalized mentorship and guidance, learning directly from professionals who understand the challenges and rewards of special education. This supportive approach equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel as an educator and make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with unique learning needs.

Cost & Timeline

Invest In Your Future

Tuition: The Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education program at Bluefield University offers a competitive tuition rate of $395 per credit hour, providing an affordable and accessible pathway to achieving your dream of becoming an inspiring and effective educator.

Flexible Start Dates

Next Start: May 2025 (Online)

Students have the flexibility to choose a start date that aligns with their schedule and learning preferences. New classes begin every 8 weeks through the year, allowing you to complete your degree sooner!

Efficient Completion

Full-Time: 1-4 years

With a streamlined curriculum and dedicated support, students can complete the Special Education program in as little as 1 year with qualifying transfer credit, allowing them to fast-track their journey to becoming impactful educators.

Financial Aid Available

99% of BU students qualify for financial assistance to help them earn their degrees. We will stop at nothing to help our students go further. See how we can help!

Unlock Your Potential

Many of our students receive scholarships or grants, making education more affordable. Don’t let finances hold you back. Discover the opportunities awaiting you!

Your Service, Our Honor

We proudly support our veterans with exclusive benefits to honor their service. Explore our comprehensive programs designed to set you on a path to success!

Chart Your Path Forward

Every year, numerous students take advantage of federal financial aid. We’re here to guide you through the process. Make your dream education a reality today!

Need To Know

The Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education at Bluefield University prepares graduates with the skills and knowledge to support and empower students with diverse learning needs. This degree equips students to address real-world challenges in inclusive classrooms, design effective interventions, and foster a love for learning in all students. In today’s educational landscape, the demand for compassionate and skilled special education teachers continues to grow. With this degree, graduates are ready to make a meaningful impact in classrooms and communities, advocating for the success of every learner.

Top Opportunities for Special Education Graduates

Graduates in Special Education can pursue impactful careers in various educational and community roles, such as:

Special Education Teacher: Provide tailored instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs in public, private, or charter schools.
Behavioral Specialist: Develop strategies to address behavioral challenges and promote positive outcomes for students.
IEP Coordinator: Guide and oversee individualized education plans (IEPs) to ensure student success and compliance with state and federal guidelines.
Education Consultant: Assist schools or districts in implementing inclusive practices and improving outcomes for students with special needs.

These career paths allow graduates to make a meaningful difference while supporting students and families.

Job Salary and Growth Opportunities

The field of special education offers rewarding career paths and consistent demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, here’s what graduates can expect:

Special Education Teachers: Median salary of $61,820 per year, with a projected growth rate of 8% through 2031.
Instructional Coordinators (with advanced degrees): Median salary of $66,970 per year, with a growth rate of 7%.

These roles provide job stability, opportunities for career growth, and the chance to make a significant impact in the lives of students with unique needs.

Pathways to Advanced Degrees

For those looking to expand their expertise, Bluefield University’s Special Education program provides a strong foundation for pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Special Education or Educational Leadership. These programs can lead to roles like district-level special education coordinator or inclusion specialist, offering higher earning potential and greater opportunities to advocate for students.

Whether you aim to become a classroom teacher, specialize in behavioral support, or advance into leadership roles, Bluefield University’s Special Education program prepares you to succeed in diverse professional settings, making a lasting impact on the lives of learners with special needs.

At Bluefield University, we prioritize making the admissions process as simple and efficient as possible. Here’s how we help you start your journey toward a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education:

Step 1: Apply Online

Start by completing our easy online application. It only takes a few minutes, and with no standardized test requirements, the process is designed to focus on what truly matters—your potential and passion.

Step 2: Connect with Your Admissions Representative and Advisor

Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be introduced to an admissions representative who will guide you through the next steps. You’ll also meet with an academic advisor to discuss your goals, evaluate your previous education, and ensure you’re fully prepared to begin your classes.

This one-on-one support ensures a personalized experience, so you can hit the ground running when classes start.

Step 3: Fast-Track Your Education with Transfer Credits

At Bluefield University, we accept up to 90 transfer credits toward your degree, allowing you to build on your prior academic achievements and fast-track your education. By transferring eligible credits, you can save time and money, focusing only on the courses you need to complete your degree.

Whether you’re starting fresh or bringing credits from another institution, our admissions process is tailored to help you reach your goals with confidence. Take the first step today by applying online!

The Bachelor of Arts in Special Education program at Bluefield University is designed to prepare future educators to support and empower students with diverse learning needs. Through a blend of foundational coursework, hands-on learning, and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills necessary to create inclusive, dynamic classroom environments that foster success for every learner.

Key Courses

Core Curriculum:

Modern English Grammar
Literature of Children & Adolescents
Regional & Ethnic Literature
Intro to Statistics
Human Biology w/ Lab

Professional Curriculum:

Human Growth & Development for Educators
Foundations of Education
Reading & Language Arts
Assessment & Evaluation in Special Education
Teaching Students with Disabilities for Success in the General Curriculum
Collaboration & Transition for Students with Disabilities

Field Experience:

Dynamic Learning Environments
Student Teaching

These courses provide a comprehensive foundation in child development, special education strategies, and effective teaching methods, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the needs of diverse learners.

Experiential Learning

The Special Education program emphasizes the importance of real-world application through immersive experiences. Students engage in Dynamic Learning Environments, preparing them to manage diverse classrooms effectively. The program culminates in a Student Teaching experience, offering a full semester of in-classroom practice under the mentorship of experienced educators.

This approach equips graduates with the confidence and practical expertise to step directly into the field and succeed as special education professionals.

Competencies

Graduates of the program will excel in: