Major in Special Education

The Special Education degree at FHU offers several benefits to students:

1. Comprehensive Preparation: The program provides students with a thorough understanding of disabilities and equips them with the knowledge of developmental, academic, and social needs of children with special needs. Graduates are well-prepared to address the diverse challenges in the field of special education.
2. Diverse Licensure Options: FHU offers three licensure areas (K-8 Interventionist, 6-12 Interventionist, and K-12 Comprehensive), providing students with the flexibility to choose a specialization that aligns with their career goals and interests.
3. Practical Experience: Students gain valuable hands-on experience through integrated practicum and a full semester of student teaching in public school settings. This practical exposure allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world classroom settings, enhancing their teaching skills and confidence.
4. Inclusive Learning Focus: The program emphasizes evidence-based practices, technology integration, and differentiated instruction, enabling graduates to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for exceptional children.
5. Expert Faculty: The faculty in the Special Education program at FHU are experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance to students throughout their academic journey.
6. Impactful Career Opportunities: With a Special Education degree from FHU, graduates are prepared for rewarding careers where they can make a positive impact on the lives of children with disabilities and contribute to the advancement of inclusive education.

In summary, the Special Education degree at FHU offers comprehensive preparation, diverse career opportunities, practical experience, and the chance to create a meaningful impact in the lives of children with disabilities. Graduates are well-equipped to become effective and compassionate special education professionals, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities in this vital field.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, graduates have a range of career options in the field of special education. Some of the potential career paths include:

1. Special Education Teacher: Work as a licensed special education teacher in public or private schools, providing individualized instruction and support to students with disabilities.
2. Interventionist: Serve as an intervention specialist, working with students who require additional assistance in specific academic or behavioral areas.
3. Behavior Analyst: Conduct assessments, design behavior intervention plans, and implement strategies for positive behavior support for students with behavioral challenges.
4. Early Intervention Specialist: Work with young children with developmental delays or disabilities, providing early intervention services to support their growth and development.
5. Education Consultant: Provide expertise and guidance to schools and organizations on best practices for supporting students with disabilities and implementing inclusive education programs.
6. Education Program Coordinator: Manage and organize special education programs and services within schools or community-based organizations.

These are just a few examples of the diverse career options available with a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education. Graduates with this degree are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and passion to make a positive impact on the lives of children with disabilities and contribute to the advancement of inclusive education practices.

The job outlook for graduates with a Special Education degree is generally positive. The demand for special education teachers and professionals has been steadily growing due to various factors:

1. Inclusive Education: There is a growing emphasis on inclusive education, which requires qualified special education professionals to support students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms.
2. Increasing Awareness: Greater awareness of learning and developmental disabilities has led to an increased demand for specialized services and support in educational settings.
3. Retirement of Current Educators: Many current special education teachers are reaching retirement age, leading to openings for new graduates to fill these positions.
4. Policy and Legislation: Changes in education policy and legislation have led to a greater focus on providing appropriate services to students with disabilities, creating a need for qualified special education professionals.
5. Diverse Learning Needs: The recognition of the diverse learning needs of students has created demand for specialized educators who can provide individualized instruction and support.

It is essential to note that job opportunities and demand can vary by location, as education policies, funding, and demographics can influence the job market. Graduates with a Special Education degree who are flexible in their location preferences and open to different roles within the field may find a wider range of job opportunities.

Through the Special Education program at FHU, you will acquire a diverse set of skills that will prepare you to effectively support children with disabilities and create inclusive learning environments. Some of the key skills you will learn include:

1. Understanding Disabilities: Gain in-depth knowledge of various disabilities, their characteristics, and how they can impact learning and development.
2. Behavior Management: Develop strategies to address behavioral challenges and create positive behavior support plans for students.
3. Assessment and Evaluation: Acquire skills in assessing students’ academic and developmental progress, identifying areas of need, and using data to inform instructional planning.
4. Assistive Technology: Learn to use and integrate assistive technologies that can enhance learning experiences for students with disabilities.
5. Inclusion Strategies: Gain insights into inclusive education practices and how to promote an inclusive classroom environment where all students can participate and thrive.
6. Classroom Management: Develop effective classroom management strategies to create a positive and structured learning environment.

These skills will empower you to become a compassionate, competent, and dedicated special education professional capable of making a positive impact on the lives of exceptional children and contributing to the advancement of inclusive education practices.