Campbellsville's online Bachelor of Science in Special Education (SPED) program prepares you to support Kentucky's primary–12th-grade students with learning and behavior disorders.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Program Details
Next Start Date: 1/15/2025
Course Length: 16 weeks
Estimated Length: 4 years
B.S. Special Ed. – Learning Behavior Disorders (P-12) Overview
Campbellsville University’s online Bachelor of Science in Special Education – Learning Behavior Disorders (P–12) provides the skills, knowledge, and initial certification you need to teach primary through 12th-grade students with learning and behavior disorders in Kentucky. While the program requires clinical experience, the coursework and format are 100% online. You can complete your degree in four years or less, depending on the number of transfer credits.
Our curriculum combines general education content with a comprehensive study of special education theory and methods. You will learn to design lesson plans for diverse learners, create classroom experiences for various abilities, and work with elementary students with various learning disabilities and behaviors.
You will also complete 16 weeks of student teaching to apply what you’ve learned in real special education classrooms. We provide personalized placement assistance to identify student teaching opportunities in your community.
Graduates of the B.S. in Special Education program are prepared for Praxis® exams and have the initial licensure required to teach special education from primary through 12th grade. We also offer a dual certification option in elementary education. Students pursuing the special education major may choose to complete a second major in elementary education, opening doors to more opportunities.
Our faculty are education experts who bring real-world teaching experience into the online classroom. Campbellsville’s education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The programs are approved by the Education Professional Standards Board of Kentucky (EPSB) for teacher education and certification.
Dual Licensure Option Available
Complete the B.S. in Learning & Behavior Disorders degree and the Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification together in one dual licensure program. This dual program option will add only one semester to your completion time, allowing you to graduate with two career-focused credentials while saving time and money.
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“I couldn’t of done it if I had to go back to campus. Being able to get it online is the only way I would’ve been able to get my degree.”
– David Harris
Course Map
This program consists of 122 credit hours and includes education, clinical practice and related courses within the special education major. The B.S. in Special Education (SPED) – Learning Behavior Disorders can be completed in four years or less, depending on transfer credits and previous academic experience.
The General Education component of undergraduate degrees provides the student with a basic understanding of a broad range of subjects. This supports the liberal arts emphasis of the University’s academic mission.
- ED 199 Entry to Educator Preparation (CAP 1) (Co-requisite of first education class)
- ED 299 Admission to Educator Preparation (CAP 2) (Prior to enrolling in ED 414)
- ED 399 Application for Student Teaching (CAP 3) (Co-requisite to ED 414)
- ED 499 Program Exit (CAP 4) (Co-requisite to ED 450)
- ED 199 Entry to Educator Preparation (CAP 1) (Co-requisite of first education class)
- ED 220 Introduction to Teaching
- ED 300 Human Development and Learning Theory
- ED 390 Assessment and Instructional Strategies
- ED 331 Social Studies Methodology
- ED 341 Math Methodology
- ED 343 Science Methodology
- HP 391 Adapted Physical Education
- MTH 201 Math for Elementary Teachers I
- MTH 202 Math for Elementary Teachers II
- SOC 342 Race and Ethnic Relations
Take one course from the following:
- ED 371 Children’s Literature
- ENG 364 Middle Grades Literature
- SED 103 Introduction to Special Education
- SED 105 Introduction to Learning Disabilities
- SED 107 Theories of Reading & Educational Practices (P-12)
- ED 200 Emotional Disturbances & Behavioral Disorders
- SED 203 Classroom Management
- SED 205 Behavior Management of Children & Youth with Learning & Behavior Problems
- SED 303 Curriculum Methods in Learning & Behavior Disorders
- SED 305 Prescriptive & Instructional Strategies
- SED 410 Teaching Mathematics to Children & Youth with Learning & Behavior Disorders
- SED 411 Assessment & Instructional Methods
- SED 412 Developmental Reading in Middle and High School
- ED 414 Classroom Management
- ED 450 Student Teaching
Admissions Requirements
To apply for Campbellsville University’s CAEP-accredited, online B.S. in Special Education – Learning Behavior Disorders program, students must complete or submit for review the following:
Apply to CU:
- Online application
- Official transcripts, including a complete record of all courses attempted, from each college or university attended
- If transferring fewer than 24 credit hours, submit an official high school transcript
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
Costs & Financial Aid
The Bachelor of Science in Special Education (SPED) program costs $424 per credit hour. Campbellsville University’s staff works with students to discover financial aid options to help students afford their education.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
Students can transfer up to 72 credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university to this program.
Campbellsville is a military-friendly school and a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon program. Campbellsville University Online welcomes U.S. military service members and veterans to further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Special Education
After finishing your B.S. in Special Education (SPED) – Learning Behavior Disorders, you will be qualified to pursue a career as a certified special education teacher in Kentucky from primary through 12th grade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, special education teachers earn an average of $61,500 per year. Job growth for this role is expected to grow 8 percent through 2030, as fast as the national average.
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the wellrounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Special education certification, or SPED certification, qualifies you for public and private teaching jobs in special education classrooms. Graduates of Campbellsville University's online B.S. in Special Education – Learning Behavior Disorders program have the initial licensure required to teach special education at the primary through the 12th-grade level.
- Earning a Bachelor of Science in Special Education gives you the specialized knowledge and experience to teach students with individual disabilities, differences and needs. Special education is a rewarding career path that helps you directly impact students' lives.
- In the state of Kentucky, you must complete a teacher preparation degree program, pass qualification exams and submit official transcripts to earn a special education teaching license. Campbellsville University's Online B.S. in Special Education can prepare you to become a certified special education teacher in Kentucky at the primary through the 12th-grade level.