Special Education Major
The B.A. in Special Education will help you become a skilled professional in a high-demand profession. You’ll learn to customize programs to meet individual needs and serve students with compassion in a variety of roles. This program will build your knowledge base and refine your skills in assessing, supporting, and educating students with mild to moderate disabilities. Upon completion of your B.A., you will be able to add optional licenses in several areas: Emotional Behavioral Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, and/or Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Why should I study special education?
There's a critical shortage of qualified special education professionals in the state of Minnesota. With this new program, students will be able to build their credentials and gain hands-on experience. Students will learn evidence-based practices, build their professional network, complete courses alongside a group of diverse, supportive peers, and gain the confidence and practical tools to excel in this growing and high-demand field. It's also a great complement to a variety of other majors and minors.
What can I do with this degree?
Our graduates become:
- Special education teachers in public, private, and charter schools
- Ministry professionals serving students with special needs
- Social service professionals
- Education directors at parks, museums, community education programs
- Policy, lobbying, and advocacy professionals
- Group home directors or administrators
- Paraprofessionals
- Special Olympics, camp, or recreational program support staff for students with special needs
- Members of society and communities who are sensitive to the needs of exceptional individuals
What skills will I develop?
Because this program utilizes courses also offered to adult learners, students will have added flexibility and diversity in some courses while still enjoying the incredible community and atmosphere of Bethel's signature undergraduate experience. Students will learn to:
- Understand the educational landscape, building a basis for educational practice
- Effectively teach students with mild to moderate disabilities
- Develop strategies for managing academic and behavioral challenges
- Ethically carry out legal requirements of special education
- Collaborate with parents and colleagues
- Engage with students from culturally and ethnically diverse backgrounds
- Use a range of technology tools to interpret, evaluate, and apply information
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
- Work alongside Bethel's professors, who are leading researchers and practitioners in the special education field with experience in multiple specialties
- Apply educational theory and best practices in K-12 special education classrooms through field experience and student teaching
- Learn from experienced educators who will help you synthesize your learning into practical next steps in your career
- Incorporate Christian faith and solid values into every element of learning. You'll build practical skills, but also explore how your values influence your work.
20
full-time and adjunct faculty
350-400 students in the department
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I am forever thankful for how Bethel University showed me how to love people. Bethel taught me that love is a verb. Teaching in a public school, I am thankful that I can still show God's love through my actions.
Bridgette Megears '16Second Grade Teacher at Anoka Hennepin
I believe the education I received at Bethel prepared me for my role as a teacher, leader, and for my current role as principal. The education department's theme of servant leadership provided a framework and vision for me in all I do, regardless of my position. It helped create the understanding that education is not about me, but about the students and families we serve.
Nathan Flansburg '97Current job: Principal, Valentine Hills Elementary, Arden Hills, Minnesota
Spain Term changed my life. God showed me a beautiful culture and people in need of Him. After graduation, I returned to complete a masters in Spanish and literature, and then taught at a private school in Madrid.
Lauren Borst '09Current job: Spanish Teacher at The Altamont School, Birmingham, Alabama
Bethel's education program has prepared me to be a successful educator. I provide my students with engaging, effective, and differentiated instruction. Bethel has instilled me with a love for learning and I try to do the same for my students.
Paige Davis '16First Grade Spanish Immersion Teacher at Princeton Primary School
The professors I had the opportunity to develop relationships with during my time at Bethel continue to be an invaluable resource and source of encouragement as I begin my own teaching career.
Matt Berka '16High School English Teacher
One of my favorite aspects about Bethel is the relationships that I found with my peers and the professors. The people that I have met at Bethel have impacted me by sharing their passions and helping me discover mine.
Elise Krohn '16Elementary Teacher
The Education Department at Bethel University focuses on developing the best educators for the field. Throughout my time at Bethel I knew that the department was supporting my future career through the courses, professors, and atmosphere.
Audrey Erdahl '16Teacher
