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Associate of Arts and Sciences in Education or Associate of Science in Education

Completing the associate degree will waive VCU's general education requirements.

Note: the AAS in Early Childhood Development is also approved as a pathway for a waiver of VCU's general education requirements.

The purpose of the B.S.Ed. in Special Education and Teaching is to prepare students to serve as initially licensed special education teachers in K-12 schools as well as to serve as educators and leaders in schools and community-based settings.

The program focuses on providing students with the tools they need to make a difference in the lives of children, youth and adults with disabilities. Students will garner the knowledge and skills to become licensed special education teachers who work with children with high incidence disabilities, including individuals with learning disabilities, emotional disturbance and mild to moderate intellectual disability. Students will be able to recognize a child’s educational and social problems, to formulate effective and personalized/individualized instruction, and to consult with parents, teachers and administrators to incorporate accommodations and transitions across the child’s educational program. Students also will be prepared to teach reading and language, mathematics, and other core content areas, as well as be able to apply classroom and behavior management and social skills to students with diverse abilities and backgrounds.

Graduates will be prepared to work in public and private elementary, middle and high schools across Virginia, with particular focus in urban and high-need areas. Graduates will be capable of working with diverse learners and adapting instructional programs based on the needs of their students and clients. Successful completion of the program will result in licensure in special education/general education curriculum (K-12).

Graduates typically work in public or private school systems, child care centers, and youth service organizations. Teaching in public schools requires licensure. Be sure to explore the certification requirements in the state you want to teach in as they can differ across states. Graduates can also find work with programs such as Richmond Teacher Residency, Americorps, PeaceCorps, Fulbright Student Program, City Year, America Reads, or The Literacy Lab. Learn more and explore potential career pathways at https://www.teach.org/.