M.S. in Communication Science & Disorders
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Communication Science & Disorders at the University...
Bachelors in Special Education
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
INTAKE: Feb & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelors in Special Education at UW-Eau Claire combines theoretical learning with practical experience. Students gain expertise in understanding different disabilities, including learning, emotional, and physical disabilities, and are trained to adapt their teaching methods to support the diverse needs of their students. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students learn how to develop individualized education plans (IEPs), use assistive technology, and apply behavioral intervention techniques. The program also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with families, other educators, and community organizations to create an effective support system for students.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the Bachelors in Special Education program is designed to ensure students have a solid foundation in both general and special education principles. Key coursework includes topics in child development, educational psychology, classroom management, differentiated instruction, and assessment techniques. Students also complete courses that focus specifically on teaching students with various disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, and emotional or behavioral disorders. The program includes field placements and student teaching experiences, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
Research Focus: Research in the Bachelors in Special Education program at UW-Eau Claire centers around improving educational practices for students with special needs. Students and faculty engage in research related to learning disabilities, inclusive teaching strategies, assistive technology, and interventions for at-risk students. Research focuses on how teachers can better meet the needs of diverse learners, enhance classroom environments, and develop effective instructional techniques that promote equity in education. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects to explore current challenges in special education and contribute to the field’s growing body of knowledge.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the Bachelors in Special Education program. The program partners with local schools and educational organizations to provide students with hands-on experience through field placements and internships. These real-world experiences help students build their professional skills, apply their knowledge in classroom settings, and establish valuable networks within the education community. UW-Eau Claire’s strong connections with local school districts ensure that students gain exposure to diverse educational settings and can collaborate with experienced special education professionals.
Global Perspective: While the program is rooted in U.S. educational practices, students are encouraged to develop a global perspective on special education. The curriculum includes opportunities to learn about international practices for educating students with disabilities and to explore the impact of cultural differences on educational approaches. Students also have the chance to participate in study abroad programs, allowing them to gain insights into the challenges and strategies used by educators in different countries to support students with disabilities. This global perspective equips future special education teachers to work effectively with diverse populations and adapt their teaching to a variety of cultural and educational contexts.
Location
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 19750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $25
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% 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 75 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 54 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, it offers various scholarships to international students to support their educational pursuits. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
Academic Excellence Awards: The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides merit-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements. These awards are often determined by high school or college GPA, standardized test scores, and overall academic performance.
Cultural Diversity Scholarships: Recognizing the importance of diversity, the university offers scholarships specifically designed to support students from underrepresented regions or those with unique cultural backgrounds. These scholarships aim to create a more inclusive campus community.
Leadership and Community Involvement Scholarships: The university values students who exhibit leadership skills and actively contribute to their communities. Scholarships are available for international students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and community service.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, career goals, or involvement in departmental activities.
Global Engagement Scholarships: To encourage international students to actively engage with global perspectives, the university provides scholarships for those who participate in study abroad programs, internships, or research projects with an international focus.
Graduates of the Bachelors in Special Education program at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire are well-prepared to pursue a variety of rewarding careers in education and related fields. The program equips students with the necessary skills to work with students of all ages who have disabilities, including learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and emotional or behavioral disorders.
Special Education Teacher: One of the most common career paths for graduates is becoming a special education teacher. They work with students who have various disabilities, creating individualized education plans (IEPs) and using specialized teaching methods to meet the needs of each student in both inclusive and self-contained classrooms.
Resource Room Teacher: Graduates can work as resource room teachers, providing additional support to students who need help in specific areas, such as reading or math. They may work with students on a one-on-one or small group basis to help them reach their academic goals.
Early Intervention Specialist: Graduates with a passion for working with young children can pursue careers as early intervention specialists. These professionals work with children from birth to age five, identifying developmental delays or disabilities and providing targeted interventions to improve their learning outcomes.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist: Some graduates may specialize in working with students on the autism spectrum, developing strategies and interventions to support these students' academic, social, and emotional growth.
Behavioral Interventionist: Graduates can work as behavioral interventionists, supporting students with emotional or behavioral disorders by implementing behavior management plans and helping students develop appropriate social and academic behaviors.
Special Education Coordinator/Administrator: With additional experience and education, graduates can move into leadership roles such as special education coordinators or administrators. In these positions, they oversee special education programs, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, and support other special education teachers.
Inclusion Facilitator: Inclusion facilitators help students with special needs successfully integrate into general education classrooms. They collaborate with teachers to develop inclusive lesson plans and provide support to students with disabilities in the classroom.
Special Education Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants, advising schools or educational organizations on how to improve their special education programs. Consultants may work with school districts to develop policies, implement new teaching strategies, or provide professional development for educators.
Advocacy and Nonprofit Work: Some graduates may choose to work with nonprofit organizations that advocate for individuals with disabilities, providing support and resources to families, and working on legislative or policy initiatives to improve special education services.
Educational Therapist: Graduates can pursue careers as educational therapists, helping students with learning disabilities or cognitive challenges improve their academic skills through individualized therapy and instructional methods.
Transition Specialist: These professionals work with students with disabilities to help them transition from high school to postsecondary education or the workforce. They provide support and guidance in areas such as career planning, job training, and independent living skills.
