Illinois State University United States

Special Education - Specialist in Learning & Behavior (B.S.ED)

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

The Special Education - Specialist in Learning & Behavior (B.S.ED) at Illinois State University is designed for aspiring educators passionate about making a profound difference in the lives of children with diverse learning needs. This undergraduate degree prepares you to teach students facing challenges such as learning disabilities, emotional or cognitive impairments, autism spectrum disorders, and other health impairments. You will gain the essential knowledge and practical skills to foster inclusive learning environments and support the academic and behavioral development of every child, equipping you for a critical role in special education classrooms.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Science in Education is structured over four years, guiding you through a comprehensive curriculum that includes foundational general education courses alongside specialized modules in special education (SED) and teaching (TCH). You will engage in hands-on learning experiences, culminating in extensive student teaching (STT) semesters where you will apply your expertise under the guidance of experienced professionals. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue careers as a certified special education teacher, ready to advocate for and educate students with learning and behavioral exceptionalities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Education program prepares specialists in learning and behavior within special education. The curriculum includes foundational general education courses in English, psychology, and mathematics, alongside specialized coursework in special education (SED) and teaching (TCH). Students will engage in a progressive sequence of courses covering various aspects of special education, culminating in extensive practicum and student teaching experiences.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
PSY 110 General Education
SED 101 General Education/IDEAS
General Education course
General Education course
University wide elective

2 First Year - Spring Semester (16 credit hours)

ENG 101 or COM 110 General Education
General Education course (MAT 130 recommended)
General Education course
General Education course
SED 205
University-wide elective

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

SED 206
SED 207
TCH 210
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

SED 360
TCH 208
General Education course
General Education course
AMALI course or University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

SED 342
SED 361
SED 368
TCH 318
EAF 228 or EAF 231 or EAF 235

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (14 credit hours)

SED 251
SED 345
SED 362
SED 366
SED 388

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (16 credit hours)

SED 252a01
SED 252a02
SED 390
SED 391
SED 392

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (12 credit hours)

STT 399a59 section 1
STT 399a59 section 2

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationFinancial Technology (Fintech)Medical Research & Clinical TrialsNursing & Allied HealthSecondary & High School EducationTax & Legal ComplianceVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Advocate Health Care

Carle Health

Chicago Public Schools

Health Care Service Corporation

Illinois State University

Why Study Special Education - Specialist in Learning & Behavior (B.S.ED) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State 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 Special Education - Specialist in Learning & Behavior (B.S.ED) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours a week on campus during term time and full-time during breaks. Work off-campus may be available after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with varying minimum scores depending on the test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as certified special education teacher, educational consultant, behavioral analyst, or inclusion specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This B.S.ED program focuses on educating teachers for students with diverse learning needs, including those with autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities. You'll engage in hands-on learning and student teaching to prepare for your role in special education.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Special Education - Specialist in Learning & Behavior program in January, June, or August. Each intake offers a full-time, on-campus experience.
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