What is Elementary Education & Special Education?
A bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education provides you with the eligibility
to become a licensed elementary teacher (K-6) as well as gaining an additional endorsement
to teach special education from K-12. Your flexible skills will make you a highly
desirable candidate to school administrators across the country who face the largest
teacher shortage in decades.
UW’s Elementary and Special Education program exposes you to evidence-based teaching
methods and classroom practices, as well as positive behavioral supports needed to
meet the needs of all students. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of legal
requirements under special education law, and best practices in providing services
to students with disabilities.
UW's College of Education has additional requirements for admission. Learn more about our application process!
UW's elementary education and special education bachelors program is offered in Laramie,
or at UW at Casper so you can earn your degree close to home. Our programs are nationally accredited
by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are approved
by the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board.
You have the ability to learn wherever you are! Location doesn't matter when you can
conveniently complete your classes through UW Online & Continuing Education using technologies such as video-conferencing.
What Can You Do With an Elementary Education and Special Education Bachelor’s Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from the University of Wyoming enables you to work with all disability categories in special education in grades K-12, and in addition, provides you the flexibility to teach all students in elementary school based on current district needs.
- Elementary teacher
- Elementary special education teacher
- Special education coordinator
- Special Education Case Manager
- Resource Teacher
Definitely! UW’s dual major in elementary and special education can significantly enhance your job prospects. This program is built on the strong foundation of the University of Wyoming’s nationally recognized elementary education program, which was ranked 6th in the nation by CollegeChoice.net and placed in the top 2 percent by the National Council on Teacher Quality. By earning credentials in both general and special education, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the growing demand for versatile, highly qualified educators in a wide range of school settings.
Undergraduates can add endorsements or minors to their future teaching license by taking courses to gain expertise in specific areas. Explore the following endorsements and increase your salary and job opportunities:
As part of the program, you'll complete practicum hours in diverse educational settings, giving you the opportunity to work with various age groups, student populations, and subject areas—helping you build confidence and clarity in your teaching path. In addition, you’ll complete a 16-week student teaching residency split between elementary and special education classrooms. During this time, you’ll gradually take on full teaching responsibilities, supported and guided by an experienced mentor teacher.
