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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. 

TOP

elementary education program nationwide for a selective admissions process

- National Council on Teacher Quality

88%

2017 grads reported being employed as teachers

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OCT 11 2023

Bethel Education (GS) Table Outside the DC

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Learn more about Bethel's Graduate Studies Education Program!

MAR 20 2024

Bethel Education (GS) Table Outside the DC

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Learn more about Bethel's Graduate Studies Education Program!