English Secondary & Special Education

Program Overview

The program emphasizes a strong foundation in English, expertise in special education, and practical experience through classroom observations, tutoring, and student teaching. Graduates are qualified for licensure in Virginia and potential licensure in other states, opening up a range of career opportunities in education.

Program Outline

The program offers two endorsements, allowing graduates to teach English language arts and work with students with disabilities in grades 6-12.

Objectives:

• To equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach English language arts and work with students with disabilities in secondary school settings.
• To prepare graduates for licensure in the Commonwealth of Virginia and potential licensure in other states.
• To cultivate caring and dedicated educators who are committed to promoting student success and fostering a positive learning environment.

Program Description:

• The program emphasizes a strong foundation in English language arts, including literature, writing, and grammar.
• Students develop expertise in working with students with disabilities, including identifying learning challenges, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and implementing effective instructional strategies.
• Coursework blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience through classroom observations, tutoring, and student teaching.
• Graduates are prepared to meet the diverse needs of all learners in secondary school settings.

Outline:

Program Content:

• English Endorsement: Focuses on developing expertise in English language arts, encompassing literature, writing, and grammar.
• Special Education Endorsement: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to identify learning challenges, develop IEPs, and implement effective instructional strategies for students with disabilities.

Program Structure:

• Requires completion of 120-125 credits.
• Includes coursework in both English and special education, as well as general education requirements.
• Culminates in a 14-week student teaching experience where students gain hands-on teaching experience.

Course Schedule:

• Courses are offered in a variety of formats, including traditional lectures, seminars, and online modules.
• Students typically take 4-5 courses per semester.
• The program can be completed in four years of full-time study.

Individual Modules:

• English Endorsement Modules:
• Advanced Essay
• Modern Grammar
• World Literature
• British Literature I & II
• American Literature I & II
• African American Literature
• Peer Tutoring in Writing
• Young Adult Literature
• Critical Theory
• Writing for Online Audiences
• Literature and Film
• Literary Magazine Production
• Media Literacy
• Special Education Endorsement Modules:
• Lifespan Development
• Foundations/Legal/Medical Aspects of Special Education
• The Teaching Profession
• Curriculum, Instruction, & Service Delivery
• Curriculum & Instruction in Middle/Secondary Schools
• Transitions for Students with Disabilities
• Methods and Assessment in Middle/Secondary Schools
• Language Acquisition and Reading Methods
• Methods and Management in Middle/Secondary Schools
• Instructional Strategies in Mathematics for Students with Disabilities
• Literacy in Content Areas
• Student Teaching in Middle/Secondary Schools

Assessment:

• Assessment methods vary depending on the specific course and module.
• Typically include a combination of exams, assignments, presentations, and projects.
• Student teaching is assessed through observations, lesson plans, and student performance data.

Teaching:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, simulations, and hands-on activities.
• Faculty members are experienced educators with expertise in English language arts and special education.
• The program emphasizes a personalized approach to teaching, providing students with individual attention and support.

Careers:

• Graduates are qualified to teach English language arts and work with students with disabilities in grades 6-12.
• Potential career paths include:
• English teacher
• Special education teacher
• Reading specialist
• Curriculum developer
• Educational administrator
• The program prepares graduates for licensure in Virginia and potential licensure in other states, enhancing their career opportunities.

Other:

• The program places a strong emphasis on developing caring and dedicated educators.
• Students have access to a variety of resources, including learning support services, career guidance, and student organizations.
• The program enjoys a strong partnership with local schools, providing students with rich opportunities for practical experience.
• Shenandoah University is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring the high quality of the program.