Elementary and Special Education: General Curriculum

Across the United States, school systems face a critical shortage of highly qualified teachers in special education. Students pursuing a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies and licensure in Elementary Education (PK-6) from Radford University may enter the fifth year Master of Science Degree in Special Education. This includes graduate coursework and two clinical experiences and leads to Virginia licensure in Special Education: General Curriculum (K-12). Students must meet all requirements for admission to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies before being enrolled in the graduate-level portion of the program, known as the fifth year. Students are expected to complete the graduate admission process during the final semester of their senior year. 

Progress sheets for the Elementary and Special Education: General Curriculum Teacher Preparation Program can be found on the College of Education and Human Development Advising Resources page. Select the academic year and then choose Elementary and Special Education: General Curriculum 5 year plan. More information may be obtained by visiting Radford University's catalog. Select the Elementary and Special Education: General Curriculum 5-Year Program link.

Graduate Admission Requirements

  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
  • Completion of the application and submission of application fee
  • A copy of a current general education teaching license (either elementary, middle, or secondary)
  • An up-to-date professional resume 
  • Official undergraduate transcripts from all schools attended
  • Two professional recommendations     

Master's Degree Class and Internship Requirements

The following courses (30 credit hours) are required for the master’s degree in Special Education  and VDOE licensure in Special Education: General Curriculum K-12

  • EDEF 605: Introduction to Educational Research
  • EDSP 645: Instructional and Adaptive Methods in Mathematics
  • EDSP 646: Instruction and Intervention Strategies in Reading and Writing for Students with Disabilities
  • EDSP 675: Teaching Students with Exceptional Learning Needs in the Elementary General Curriculum
  • EDSP 676: Teaching and Transitioning Exceptional Learners in Secondary Education
  • EDSP 669: Diagnostic and Assessment Procedures for Individuals with Disabilities
  • EDSP 791: Elementary Teaching Internship in Special Education General and Adapted Curriculum
  • EDSP 792: Secondary Teaching Internship in Special Education General and Adapted Curriculum