B.S. in Special Education

Entry requirements for international students

Application Fee: US$ 115

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • The University of Cincinnati places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, requiring prospective students to have a minimum academic qualification of 70% or above.  
      

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Overall band score of 6.5 or higher with no individual band score below 6.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Internet-based test (iBT) score of 79 or higher.
   • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): Minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.

The University of Cincinnati (UC) offers a range of scholarships to international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based scholarship offered to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition coverage for up to four years of study at UC. Selection is highly competitive, and students are evaluated based on their academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.

2. UC Global Scholarship Plus: The UC Global Scholarship Plus is an enhanced scholarship program that combines the Global Scholarship with additional funding. This provides greater financial support to international undergraduate students, covering a larger portion of their tuition expenses.

3. UC International Excellence Award: The UC International Excellence Award is a merit-based scholarship available to outstanding international undergraduate students. It recognizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Recipients of this award receive financial support towards their tuition costs.

4. Graduate Student Scholarships: UC offers various scholarships and assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These scholarships may cover tuition expenses, provide stipends, or offer research or teaching assistant positions. Graduate students are encouraged to explore specific scholarships and assistantship opportunities within their respective departments or programs.

5. Country-Specific Scholarships: UC may offer scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria set by donors or sponsoring organizations. Prospective international students are advised to check with the university's financial aid office or international admissions office for country-specific scholarship opportunities.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application processes may vary from year to year. 

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Special Education program at the University of Cincinnati are well-prepared to embark on fulfilling careers in the field of special education. The program equips educators with the necessary skills, knowledge, and practical experiences to support students with diverse learning needs. The B.S. in Special Education program at the University of Cincinnati prepares graduates for a diverse range of rewarding careers in the field. Whether directly in the classroom, in support roles, or as advocates and specialists, these educators play a crucial role in fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments for individuals with diverse learning needs.

1. Special Education Teacher: The most common career path for graduates is to become a special education teacher. They work in various educational settings, including elementary, middle, and high schools, providing specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities. Special education teachers collaborate with general education teachers, administrators, and parents to create inclusive and effective learning environments.

2. Inclusion Specialist: Graduates may choose to specialize in inclusive education, working as inclusion specialists. In this role, they collaborate with general education teachers to adapt curriculum materials, implement differentiated instruction, and support the inclusion of students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms.

3. Behavior Intervention Specialist: Some graduates pursue careers as behavior intervention specialists. They work with students who exhibit challenging behaviors, developing and implementing behavior intervention plans. This role involves collaboration with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create a positive and supportive learning environment.

4. IEP Coordinator: Graduates may take on roles as Individualized Education Program (IEP) coordinators, overseeing the development and implementation of IEPs for students with disabilities. They ensure that all aspects of the IEP are carried out effectively and collaborate with various stakeholders to support the individualized needs of students.

5. Transition Specialist: Another career option is to become a transition specialist, focusing on preparing students with disabilities for life beyond school. Transition specialists help students develop essential life skills, explore vocational opportunities, and plan for post-secondary education or employment.

6. Educational Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as educational consultants, providing support and guidance to schools, districts, or educational organizations. Educational consultants in special education offer expertise in developing and implementing inclusive practices, curriculum modifications, and professional development for educators.

7. Advocate for Individuals with Disabilities: Some graduates become advocates for individuals with disabilities, working with nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies. They may engage in policy advocacy, community outreach, and public awareness campaigns to promote the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.

8. Assistive Technology Specialist: With the increasing importance of technology in education, graduates may pursue careers as assistive technology specialists. They support the integration of assistive technology tools and resources to enhance the learning experience for students with disabilities.

9. Specialized Program Coordinator: Graduates may take on roles as program coordinators for specialized programs within school districts. This could include overseeing programs for students with specific disabilities, such as autism or learning disabilities, and ensuring that the programs align with best practices and legal requirements.

10. Research and Policy Analyst: Some graduates choose career paths in research and policy analysis, contributing to the development of effective policies and practices in special education. They may work for educational research institutions, governmental agencies, or advocacy organizations.