Minor in Special Education

The purpose of the Minor in Special Education is to provide undergraduate students with an overview of the field of special education. An interdisciplinary program of required and elective courses ensures that students are exposed to a variety of experiences pertaining to disability in our society. Competencies attained by students completing this minor are of both a theoretical and practical nature and stimulate student interest in occupations serving individuals with disabilities. Service learning interactions with individuals with disabilities are designed to inspire students for a career in special education.

Program Learning Objectives (PLO)

• PLO #1: Demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge and skills related to the application of 1) special education legislation/policy and related services, atypical and typical child development; 2) inclusive school practices, diversity in education, and ways to address inequity within school systems (e.g., Universal Design for Learning, capacity building, School-Wide Transformation); and 3) best practices within the field of special education including the use of evidence-based strategies and interventions, partnerships for family and communities, and cultural respectfulness.
• PLO #2: Understand the uniqueness of individuals with disabilities and apply the knowledge and skills related to working with those individuals by focusing on specific skill/topic/disability (e.g. American Sign Language, early intervention, positive behavior supports, autism spectrum, visual impairments, Deaf/ hard of hearing, young children at-risk and with disabilities).