M.S. in Computer Information Systems
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems at NEC is a 36-credit program that can typical...
B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12)
Henniker, New Hampshire
INTAKE: Jan, Aug & Oct
Program Overview
The B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) licensure program at New England College is a four-year, 120-credit program structured to provide aspiring special educators with an in-depth understanding of disabilities and their impact on learning and development. The program focuses on teaching a wide range of instructional styles and techniques to support neurodivergent students or those with unique needs. A key highlight is the continuous real-world experience, allowing students to work alongside professional educators in partner schools every semester, gaining practical skills before graduation. The curriculum aims to foster professionals who can create safe, student-centered educational environments, integrate neuroscience concepts into teaching, and address behavioral issues effectively.
Curriculum: The 120-credit B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) curriculum at NEC is divided into an Education Core (40 credits), Special Education Content (38 credits), a Liberal Arts & Sciences Core (38 credits), and Electives (4 credits). The Education Core includes foundational courses such as "Foundations of Education," "Psychology of Learning and Classroom/School Environment," and "Introduction to the K-12 Exceptional Learner." Special Education Content delves into areas like curriculum design, planning, instruction, and assessment across various subjects, as well as specific strategies for teaching fundamental subjects in a special education environment. The program also covers recognizing the causes of behavioral issues and creating lesson plans compliant with state and national standards. The Liberal Arts & Sciences Core ensures a broad educational foundation.
Research Focus: The B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) at New England College has a strong applied research focus, particularly on evidence-based practices and understanding the needs of diverse learners. While a formal research thesis may not be explicitly listed, the program emphasizes that students will "investigate best practices in special education" and "integrate neuroscience concepts into teaching strategies built upon brain-based learning theories." Faculty research interests, such as "the effects of trauma on the developing brain in conjunction with social and emotional curriculum strategies at the K–12 level," directly inform the curriculum. This focus prepares students to critically analyze educational approaches and adapt them based on current research, ensuring they employ effective, research-informed strategies in their classrooms.
Industry Engagement: New England College's B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) program demonstrates significant industry engagement through its immersive experiential learning model. Students "gain real-world experience in an active classroom setting," working alongside professional educators "starting in their first semester, and every semester thereafter" in various partner schools. This continuous fieldwork allows students to "modify and adapt curriculum in real-life school settings," addressing the needs of diverse learners directly. The program actively maintains and cultivates partnerships with schools, ensuring that faculty remain connected to the evolving realities of education. This direct industry exposure is crucial for meeting licensure requirements and preparing graduates for seamless entry into teaching roles.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) at New England College integrates a global perspective by fostering an inclusive mindset that recognizes and values diversity in learning. While not explicitly focusing on international special education systems, the program's core emphasis on "supporting students with diverse needs" and "educating all children regardless of their talents or challenges" inherently promotes an understanding of varied learning styles and backgrounds. The curriculum prepares educators to address "the effects of trauma on the adolescent brain," a challenge that can stem from various global contexts and experiences. Furthermore, the broader Liberal Arts & Sciences Core Curriculum at NEC typically includes a "Global Perspectives" course, which further broadens students' understanding of international issues and diverse cultures, equipping them to teach in increasingly diverse classrooms.
Location
Henniker, New Hampshire
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 40178
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
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 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 65 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
New England College (NEC) is supporting talented international students by offering a range of merit-based scholarships designed to make quality education more accessible and affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and other achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to NEC are automatically considered for merit scholarships during the admission process. Awards vary based on the student’s academic record, test scores, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards, the Presidential Scholarship, is granted to exceptional international students with outstanding academic credentials.
Athletic Scholarships: NEC offers athletic scholarships to international students who demonstrate exceptional skill and commitment in NCAA Division III sports. These scholarships are awarded based on athletic performance, team needs, and coach recommendations, providing support while balancing academics and athletics.
Specialized Program Scholarships: Certain academic departments at NEC may offer scholarships targeting high-achieving students pursuing degrees in fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Education, Creative Writing, and Health Sciences. These targeted awards help attract top talent and support focused areas of study.
Graduates of New England College's B.A. in General Special Education (K-Grade 12) are uniquely qualified for a range of impactful careers within and beyond the traditional classroom.
Special Education Teacher (K-12): Designs and implements individualized education programs (IEPs), adapts general education lessons, and provides specialized instruction to students with diverse disabilities in various school settings (elementary, middle, or high school).
Inclusion Specialist: Collaborates with general education teachers to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms, providing support, modifying curriculum, and training staff on inclusive practices.
Behavioral Intervention Specialist: Observes, assesses, and develops plans to modify challenging behaviors in students with disabilities, providing counsel to teachers, parents, and students to promote positive behavioral changes.
Early Intervention Specialist: Works with infants and young children (typically birth to age 5) who have or are at risk of developmental delays, providing therapeutic support and connecting families with resources to foster early development.
Instructional Coordinator (Special Education): Develops and implements curriculum, instructional materials, and teaching strategies specifically tailored to meet the diverse learning needs of students in special education programs across a school or district.
Special Education Advocate: Guides and supports families of students with disabilities through the special education system, ensuring children receive appropriate services, accommodations, and that their rights are protected.
Transition Specialist: Assists students with special needs as they prepare for life after high school, developing individualized plans for post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, and independent living.
Educational Assistant/Paraeducator Supervisor: Supervises and trains paraeducators or teaching assistants who provide direct support to students with disabilities in classrooms.
Curriculum Developer (Special Education): Designs and creates specialized educational content, lesson plans, and intervention strategies for students with various disabilities, often for educational publishers or online learning platforms.
School-Based Case Manager (Special Education): Manages the IEP process for individual students, coordinating services, communicating with parents and various specialists, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
