Special Education

Imagine gaining the skills and knowledge needed to make a difference in the lives of students with special needs. At Western Governors University, the Special Education program focuses on equipping you with the expertise to support diverse learners and create inclusive educational environments. The curriculum blends educational theory, teaching strategies, and practical classroom experience, allowing you to understand how to adapt teaching methods to various learning disabilities and behavioral challenges.

As you progress through the program, you'll learn to design and implement individualized education plans, provide effective behavioral support, and collaborate with families and educators to advocate for your students. With a mix of online coursework and hands-on practice, you're well-prepared to foster positive learning experiences. This program empowers you to become a compassionate and skilled educator, ready to inspire and lead students toward their full potential in diverse educational settings.

By enrolling in the Special Education program at Western Governors University, you open doors to a rewarding career as a special education teacher, educational consultant, or inclusion specialist. This program equips you with the skills to effectively support diverse learners and collaborate with families and colleagues. These roles are increasingly vital in fostering inclusive educational environments, ensuring you make a meaningful impact on students' lives. The program also provides a strong foundation for further studies should you decide to advance your expertise in education.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for special education teachers was $62,950 in May 2023.

Source – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm

The Special Education program at Western Governors University is designed to be completed in about 30 months for students who are able to dedicate a full-time effort. However, the program's flexible, competency-based model allows students to accelerate their studies and potentially finish sooner, depending on their personal and professional obligations. Transfer students with applicable credits may further reduce the time to completion.

To enroll in the Western Governors University, Special Education degree program, you must have the following requirements:

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Official transcripts from prior educational institutions.
• Basic skills in critical thinking and writing.
• SAT/ACT scores (optional at some institutions).