Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Radford University offers the only program in the state of Virginia that leads to licensure in Deaf and Hard of Hearing, PreK-12. This program, available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, will prepare individuals to serve children and youth who are deaf or hard of hearing in all educational settings. Students who are deaf or hard of hearing have a variety of learning styles, skill levels and auditory abilities. In RU’s program teacher candidates are exposed to all the communication and instructional methods used with students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Methods and philosophies taught at RU include oral/aural, auditory/verbal, cued speech, total communication, and bilingual/bicultural incorporating American Sign Language.
Program Options
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with Virginia Licensure in Hearing Impairment PreK-12
- Pursue a 5th year program for licensure in Special Education: General Curriculum (K-12)
- Master of Science Degree in Special Education with Virginia Licensure in Deaf and Hard of Hearing, PreK-12
- Endorsement in Deaf and Hard of Hearing (flexible course options)
Progress sheets for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Teacher Preparation Program can be found on the College of Education and Human Development Advising Resources page. Select the academic year and then choose Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education program. More information may be obtained by visiting Radford University's catalog. Select the Deaf/Hard of Hearing link.
Field Placements
As part of this program’s curriculum individuals will meet children from preschool age through secondary school age who are deaf and hard of hearing. Individuals will experience a variety of educational placements such as inclusive classrooms, self-contained classrooms, itinerate situations, and a residential school for the deaf.
Required Tests and Scores
- Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA). Passing scores are:
- Writing: 235
- Reading: 235
- Composite: 470
- Reading for Virginia Educators (PDF)
- Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI)
Accreditation
- Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Educators (NCATE)
- Southern Association of Colleges (SACS)
Meet the Professor
Ms. Karen Stinson
Instructor
Program Advisor, ASL Minor Advisor, DHH Grant Coordinator
Contact for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program
Office: A029
Phone: 540-831-5549
Email: kastinson@radford.edu
As a third generation teacher, teaching is in my blood. Not only do I love my profession, I love sharing about my profession.