Special Education
The Bachelor of Science in Special Education is a four year program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to support learners with diverse abilities and needs. The curriculum emphasizes inclusive teaching strategies, behavioral interventions, developmental psychology, and individualized education plans (IEPs), enabling students to create effective learning environments tailored to each student’s unique requirements. Through lectures, classroom observations, practical teaching experience, and collaborative projects, students gain hands-on experience in instructional design, assessment, behavior management, and adaptive technologies, preparing them for careers in special education across various educational settings.
Students gain extensive experience in developmental assessment, educational psychology, instructional methods, and communication strategies, strengthening critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and practical teaching skills. The program combines core courses in education, psychology, and pedagogy with electives that allow students to specialize in areas such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or assistive technology. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied teaching practice and professional development, graduates acquire the skills necessary to pursue careers as special education teachers, educational consultants, curriculum developers, or continue into graduate studies in special education, educational psychology, or related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Special Education
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Special Education
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Special Education
- Introduction to Special Education
- Child Development and Psychology
- Foundations of Learning and Inclusive Practices
- Academic Writing and Research Skills
Year 2 - Core Studies in Instructional Methods
- Behavior Management and Classroom Strategies
- Assessment and Evaluation in Special Education
- Communication and Collaboration with Families
- Elective Courses in Learning Disabilities or Assistive Technology
Year 3 - Advanced Pedagogy & Applied Practice
- Curriculum Design for Diverse Learners
- Adaptive Instructional Strategies
- Fieldwork and Supervised Teaching Practice
- Elective Courses in Autism Spectrum Disorders or Cognitive Disabilities
Year 4 - Capstone & Professional Preparation
- Senior Project in Special Education
- Advanced Seminar in Inclusive Teaching
- Internship / Professional Placement in Schools
- Career Preparation and Professional Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in K-12 schools, specialized education centers, educational consulting, and nonprofit organizations. They often work as special education teachers, learning specialists, educational consultants, behavior interventionists, and curriculum developers, applying knowledge of developmental psychology, instructional strategies, and individualized education plans to support diverse learners. Many graduates continue their studies in special education, educational psychology, or related graduate programs, leveraging their expertise to implement inclusive learning practices, design adaptive curricula, and contribute to policy development in education. The combination of hands-on teaching experience, applied research, and professional development ensures graduates are fully equipped to succeed in educational environments that demand empathy, adaptability, and specialized knowledge.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive education in inclusive teaching, learning strategies, and child development that integrates theoretical knowledge with applied teaching experience. It emphasizes specialized instruction, behavioral management, curriculum adaptation, and family engagement, preparing students for careers in K-12 education and specialized learning environments. Students participate in fieldwork, research projects, supervised teaching, and community engagement, gaining practical experience alongside academic study. The four year curriculum allows in depth exploration of diverse learning needs, assessment methods, instructional strategies, and adaptive technology, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute meaningfully to educational settings and make a lasting impact on students with diverse learning abilities.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
