Special Education (grade K - 12) James Madison University

Overview

The Special Education (grade K - 12) at James Madison University provides a comprehensive pathway for aspiring educators to gain expertise in supporting students with diverse learning needs. This undergraduate major focuses on developing the pedagogical skills required to manage both general and adapted curricula in school settings.

Students enrolled in this programme benefit from a dual-concentration approach that covers the full spectrum of special education requirements. By integrating these two distinct areas, the university ensures that its graduates are versatile professionals capable of working within various educational frameworks and supporting students with a wide range of disabilities.

The curriculum is designed to meet the rigorous standards of modern teaching, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Why Special Education (grade K - 12) at James Madison University?

James Madison University offers a distinctive teaching feature by allowing students to pursue licensure in both general and adapted curricula simultaneously. This dual-track system is facilitated through specialised advising, ensuring that teacher candidates are prepared for multiple professional environments upon graduation.

The general curriculum licensure focuses on preparing candidates to work with students pursuing a standard high school diploma. In contrast, the adapted curriculum licensure focuses on students more significantly impacted by their disabilities who require a specialised, functional curriculum to succeed in their educational journey.

Located within the College of Education, the programme is supported by the Department of Educational Foundations and Exceptionalities. This department provides a dedicated learning environment where students receive personalised guidance from experienced faculty members who are experts in the field of exceptional education.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 15953 per semester
• National fee: USD 15953 per semester
• Local fee: USD 7150 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a deep understanding of educational foundations and specialised teaching strategies. Modules may include:

• Special Education
• General Curriculum
• Adapted Curriculum
• Educational Foundations
• Exceptionalities

Careers with Special Education (grade K - 12)

Graduates of this programme are primarily prepared for roles as special education teachers within public and private school systems. The dual licensure enables them to work across various grade levels, from kindergarten through to the 12th grade, providing essential support to students with diverse needs.

Beyond traditional classroom teaching, individuals may find opportunities in educational consultancy, advocacy, or specialised tutoring services. The comprehensive training provided by the university ensures that alumni are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern education sector and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.