Undergraduate Student Handbook

Undergraduate Student Handbook

Fall 2026/Spring 2027

Welcome to the Department of Special Education!

Congratulations on your decision to pursue a teaching career. We have prepared this handbook to assist you as you progress through our undergraduate programs towards a Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Special Education. This document along with a copy of the WCU Undergraduate Catalog should be referenced for policies, guidelines, course selection and other important information that will impact you as a student in the Special Education department and at the university.

Effective teachers are developed from strong professional programs. Such programs incorporate broad knowledge of the world and its people, human development, and pre-professional experiences. Professional growth also involves understanding the ways children can be helped to interact with the curriculum to make learning the most productive experience possible. Furthermore, knowledge of and the ability to use a variety of teaching strategies effectively is a measure that distinguishes the master teacher. In an atmosphere of mutual respect between faculty and students, the Department of Special Education prepares future teachers to be effective educators.

Best wishes for a successful and rewarding undergraduate experience.