M.S. in Environmental Toxicology
The University of South Alabama, located in Mobile, Alabama, is at the forefront of env...
BS in Special Education
Mobile, Alabama
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The BS in Special Education program at the University of South Alabama is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to support and educate students with diverse learning needs. The program prepares future educators to work effectively with individuals with disabilities, focusing on creating inclusive learning environments and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs). This degree provides a comprehensive foundation in special education theory, practice, and legal requirements, preparing graduates for impactful careers in various educational settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BS in Special Education includes a combination of core education courses, specialized special education training, and practical field experiences. Students take foundational courses such as Introduction to Special Education, Exceptional Learners, and Classroom Management. The program also covers specific areas like Learning Disabilities, Behavior Management, and Instructional Strategies for Special Needs. Additionally, students complete supervised teaching internships, where they gain hands-on experience working with students in real classroom settings. This blend of coursework and practical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address the challenges and opportunities in special education.
Research Focus: The BS in Special Education program emphasizes research in evidence-based practices and innovative strategies for supporting students with disabilities. Faculty members are involved in research related to effective instructional methods, behavioral interventions, and educational technology for special education. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects and contribute to studies that explore best practices in the field. This research focus helps students stay current with the latest developments and approaches in special education, enhancing their ability to apply research findings in their future careers.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the BS in Special Education program. The program fosters strong connections with local schools, special education organizations, and community agencies. Through partnerships and collaborations, students benefit from opportunities for internships, student teaching placements, and professional networking. These experiences provide practical insights into the field, allowing students to build relationships with educators and professionals, and gain a deeper understanding of the special education landscape.
Global Perspective: The BS in Special Education program incorporates a global perspective by exploring international approaches to special education and inclusive practices. Students examine how different countries address special education needs, learn about global policies and frameworks, and understand cultural differences in educational practices. Opportunities for study abroad and participation in international conferences further expand students' perspectives on global special education issues, preparing them to work in diverse and multicultural environments.
Location
Mobile, Alabama
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 17232
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $35
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 44 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.
The University of South Alabama (USA) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students to help make their education more affordable. These scholarships are competitive, and eligibility criteria may vary.
Global USA Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for incoming undergraduate international students. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and students must maintain a minimum GPA to renew the scholarship each year.
International Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate international students with outstanding academic records. The award amount varies and is based on academic achievement.
International Freshman Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is for first-time, degree-seeking international undergraduate students. It is merit-based and awarded based on academic performance.
International Student Retention Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to assist continuing international students in their academic pursuits. Eligibility is based on maintaining a minimum GPA and active involvement in campus activities.
External Scholarships: International students may also explore external scholarship opportunities, both from their home countries and international organizations, to fund their education at USA.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may change from year to year.
Graduates with a BS in Special Education from the University of South Alabama are well-prepared to pursue a variety of impactful careers within the field of education and beyond. The program’s comprehensive curriculum equips them with the necessary skills to support and educate individuals with diverse learning needs.
Special Education Teacher: The primary career path for graduates is becoming a special education teacher. In this role, they work in K-12 educational settings to provide individualized instruction and support to students with disabilities. Special education teachers develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs), adapt curricula to meet students' needs, and collaborate with general education teachers and families to ensure student success.
Educational Diagnostician: Educational diagnosticians specialize in assessing students' learning needs and disabilities. They conduct evaluations to identify cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges, and provide recommendations for educational interventions and support. This role often involves working closely with students, parents, and school administrators to develop effective strategies for addressing learning issues.
Behavioral Specialist: Graduates can work as behavioral specialists, focusing on managing and improving students' behavior in educational settings. They develop behavior intervention plans, provide training and support to teachers and staff, and work directly with students to address challenging behaviors and promote positive behavioral changes.
Inclusion Specialist: Inclusion specialists work to ensure that students with disabilities are successfully integrated into general education classrooms. They support teachers in creating inclusive learning environments, provide training on inclusive practices, and work directly with students to facilitate their participation in regular classroom activities.
Special Education Coordinator: Special education coordinators manage and oversee special education programs within schools or school districts. They ensure compliance with legal requirements, coordinate services for students with disabilities, and provide support to special education teachers and staff. This role often involves administrative responsibilities and collaboration with other educational professionals.
Transition Specialist: Transition specialists focus on helping students with disabilities transition from school to post-secondary education, vocational training, or employment. They provide guidance on career planning, job readiness skills, and assist with the development of transition plans to ensure a smooth transition into adulthood.
Educational Consultant: Educational consultants provide expert advice and support to schools, families, and educational organizations on special education matters. They may offer guidance on program development, instructional strategies, and compliance with special education laws and regulations.
Advocate or Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as advocates or policy analysts, focusing on advancing the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. They may work for advocacy organizations, government agencies, or think tanks, influencing policy decisions and promoting social change related to special education.
Nonprofit Program Director: In nonprofit organizations focused on special education or disability services, graduates can take on leadership roles managing programs and services. They develop and oversee initiatives that support individuals with disabilities, fundraise, and engage with community stakeholders to advance organizational goals.
Special Education Researcher: Graduates interested in research can pursue careers as special education researchers, investigating effective teaching methods, intervention strategies, and educational policies. They may work in academic institutions, research organizations, or educational think tanks, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of special education.
