Fact Sheet 07: Special Education

Revised August 2007

Special Education

The primary mission of the teacher education programs at West Chester University is the preparation and continuing development of educational professionals in order to meet the needs of diverse student populations.

The special education curriculum prepares you, as a student, to teach and work with diverse populations by providing you with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for effective teaching of individuals with various cognitive and physical disabilities.

In this program you will gain experience with children and young adults with low- and high-incidence disabilities. Successful University candidates possess many of the following personal characteristics: flexibility, sensitivity, open-mindedness, intellectual ability, physical stamina, and expectations that are professional and realistic.

Career Opportunities

Graduates completing certification requirements are employed in public school programs where they work with individuals in need of cognitive, emotional, and physical support in traditional special education classrooms as well as inclusive settings. Special education graduates find that the demand for certified teachers is high.

Many graduates are seeking careers in related positions outside the traditional classroom setting such as supervisory personnel in group homes as well as individually supported living and employment arrangements. In addition, positions are available in recreational facilities and day-care settings and with advocacy groups. Graduates of this program are fortunate to have numerous opportunities that satisfy their primary goal: to support the needs of individuals with disabilities. Graduates often extend career opportunities by taking advanced work in special education or other related fields, such as reading, recreation, physical therapy, and psychology.

The Pennsylvania teaching certificate is widely respected and reciprocally accepted by many states.

Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor of Science in Education - Special Education. The goal of this program is to provide relevant and comprehensive preparation if you are seeking certification to teach students with learning disabilities, mental retardation, emotional disturbances, and physical disabilities.

Dual Certification

Dual certification programs are available in early childhood and special education, and special education and elementary education. Current trends, enforced by recent litigation, have increased the need for a general understanding of the individuals with disabilities in our schools. The dual certification programs prepare you to teach in early childhood, special education, or elementary education.

Typical Courses

Assessment and Instructional Strategies
Behavior Management
Field Experience
High-Incidence Disabilities
Inclusive Classrooms
Life Transitions for Individuals With Disabilities
Low-Incidence Disabilities

Special Study Opportunities

The special education program is influenced by the resources and experiences available to University students in the surrounding area, which has a rich history of private and public service to individuals with disabilities.

As a major, you will participate in three, credit-bearing field experiences prior to student teaching. The three field experiences place you in a variety of educational opportunities in public schools and private settings that support learners identified as individuals with disabilities. You will do your student teaching in a public school district or an intermediate unit classroom.

Advanced Degrees

Master of Education in Special Education
Certification in Special Education

Faculty

You can obtain a complete listing of faculty and their academic qualifications for this program from the contact person listed below.

For More Information

Dr. Vicki McGinley, Chairperson
Department of Early Childhood and Special Education
305A Recitation Hall
West Chester University
West Chester, PA 19383
610-436-2579