Bluefield University’s premier Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Science in Special Education programs are now available online. Previously offered only in a seated program format, these accredited and acclaimed programs are available in both formats to students. Designed to be flexible for working adults, these programs allow participants the ability to attend fully online or virtually attend evening classes.
In the Elementary Education program, students will study English, math, science, and social studies content to prepare to enter elementary school classrooms. Advanced courses for aspiring teachers include teaching pedagogy, or methods in teaching, to enable them to deliver creative and engaging lessons within the classroom. Through completion of required testing, students may also earn Virginia teacher licensure in Elementary Education Pre-K-6.
The Special Education program at Bluefield University provides students with techniques for teaching and assessing students with special needs, including gifted learners. Special education majors study the four major subjects—English, math, science, and social studies—and methods for teaching all students, regardless of ability. Through completion of required testing, students may also earn Virginia teacher licensure in Special Education: General Curriculum K-12.
Students in both programs complete ninety hours of field experience as a part of their education courses ensuring the classroom is a familiar environment when they enter the workforce. Through the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Teacher Apprenticeship Grant, students in both programs are able to serve as classroom aides, paraprofessionals, long-term substitutes, and other unlicensed employees for Tazewell County Public Schools and Buchanan County Public Schools as they complete coursework.
Bluefield University offers online courses in an eight-week format during six terms each year. Classes are small and engaged with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio.
Bluefield University’s School of Education & Social Sciences offers a variety of undergraduate programs with teacher licensure related to arts, sciences, special education, and more. It also offers Early Childhood Education and Psychology & Human Services undergraduate programs without teacher licensure in addition to minors and graduate programs. BU’s Teacher Education Program received TEAC accreditation from the Inquiry Brief Commission of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
For more information about BU’s School of Education and Social Sciences, visit https://www.bluefield.edu/academics/colleges-schools/school-of-education-and-social-sciences/.
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