Widener University United States

Elementary Ed w/ Special Ed Certification, BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

As an educator, you will have the opportunity to not only teach and mentor but the ability to help shape future generations. Teaching can be a rewarding and fulfilling career as you watch your students grow their skill sets and succeed in their educational journey. 

You can prepare for certification in early elementary education and special education, opening you to a great range of job opportunities. If you are interested in working in education-related fields that do not require certification, like museums, nonprofits, and curricula development, we have a pathway to success for you too.

At Widener, our experienced faculty are dedicated to helping you succeed from the start. You will receive hands-on experience from your very first education course, by taking part in field experience at our cooperating schools.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program prepares students for careers in elementary education and special education certification. Coursework covers foundational educational principles, child development, and specialized instruction for diverse learners. Students will engage with topics such as literacy development, mathematical methods, classroom management, and inclusive teaching practices. The curriculum culminates in practical experiences through student teaching and seminars designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world application in PK-12 settings.

1 Fall (16.5 credits)

Thinking Through
Introduction to Education
Introduction to Special Education
Reading, Thinking and Writing
Fundamentals of Mathematics OR Mathematical Ideas II
First Year Seminar
Physical Education Elective

2 Spring (15.5–16.5 credits)

Emergent Literacy
Low-Incidence Disabilities
Approaches to Curriculum
ENGL 115–126 Series
Mathematical Ideas I
Cultural Immersion Trips
Physical Education Elective

3 Fall (15–18 credits)

Child & Adolescent Development for Educators
Educational Assessment
Family, Collaboration, and Advocacy
Early Literacy
Introduction to Psychology
Mathematical Ideas II (if not completed earlier)

4 Spring (18 credits)

Classroom Management
Literacy Foundations I
Behavioral Interventions in School Settings
Science Elective OR POLS/ECON
Flex Course
American Civilization I

5 Fall (15 credits)

Literacy Foundations II
Mathematical Methods I
English Language Learners PK–12
300-Level Humanities Elective
ECON/POLS/Science Elective

6 Spring (15–16 credits)

Thinking Forward
Mathematical Methods II
Cultural Proficiency and Equity Literacy
Social Studies Methods
Science Lab Elective

7 Fall (15 credits)

Urban Anthropology: Chester
Inclusive Classrooms
Teaching in Diverse Classrooms
Science Methods
The Community Teacher

8 Spring (15 credits)

Student Teaching & Seminar, PK–4 and SPED PK–12
Special Education and Transition & Adult Care

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 54,660.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 54,660.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 54,660.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 54,660.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 218,640.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chester Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

The School District of Philadelphia

Why Study Elementary Ed w/ Special Ed Certification, BA at Widener University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Widener University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Elementary Ed w/ Special Ed Certification, BA at Widener University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit, while off-campus work needs university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, acceptably scored tests include: Duolingo (overall score 110), TOEFL (overall score 79), IELTS (overall score 6.5), and PTE (overall score 58). Make sure your scores meet these thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include special education teacher, elementary school teacher, curriculum developer, and education consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program prepares you for a rewarding career in teaching and mentoring future generations. Key topics include early elementary education and special education certification, with hands-on experience from your first education course.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Elementary Ed w/ Special Ed Certification program in January or August. Be sure to apply ahead of time to secure your spot.
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