Major Description
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Special Education prepares you to obtain an LBSI teaching license and teach students from kindergarten to age 22 with disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, social or emotional disabilities, intellectual disabilities, physical or orthopedic disabilities, autism spectrum, or traumatic brain injury) in a range of educational settings.
Courses That Introduce the Major
- EDUC 201—Identity and Difference in Education
- EDUC 202—Social Justice, School & Society
- EPSY 201—Education Psychology
- SPED 117—The Culture of Disability
Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.
Possible Career Opportunities
The Special Education program prepares future educators, researchers, leaders, and passionate advocates. Graduates will be prepared for careers in a range of educational settings such as K-12 education, higher education, adult and continuing education, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
Common Career Skills
- Teaching/Pedagogy
- Educational Assessment
- Classroom Management
- Communication
- Technology Skills
- Equity & Inclusion
- Critical Thinking
- Problem-Solving
- Creativity
- Adaptability
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Organization
- Professionalism
- Initiative
- Leadership
Common Career Titles
- Special Education Teacher
- Special Education Advocate
- Education Consultant
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Instructional Coordinator
- Accessibility Resource Specialist
- Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) Case Manager
- Curriculum Specialist
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Assistive Technology Specialist
- Autism Center Director
- Transition Specialist
- Behavior Interventionist
- Education Administrator
Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.
Enhancing Your Academic Experience
- Participating in undergraduate research
- Applying for a study abroad experience
- Utilizing resources of The Career Center
- Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
- Epsilon Delta: A professional teaching fraternity for undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in education.
- Aspiring Educators: A preprofessional affiliate of the Illinois Education Association (IEA) and National Education Association (NEA) that empowers future educators through professional development, advocacy, community building, and service.
- Strengthening and Empowering Educators of Diverse Statuses (S.E.E.D.S.): A student-led organization that meets the unique needs of undergraduate students of color through open dialogue, mentorship, and community outreach.
- Golden Apple Illini: A student organization to foster of sense of unity among Golden Apple Scholars at the University of Illinois.
Further Information
There are several professional organizations dedicated to Special Education. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Special Education. These organizations include Council for Exceptional Children, International Association of Special Education and National Association of Special Education Teachers.