Bachelor's Degree in Learning and Behavior Disorders - Elementary Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Learning and Behavior Disorders/Elementary Education is ideal for students who are passionate about supporting children with special needs and fostering inclusive learning environments. This program prepares graduates for careers as special education teachers, elementary educators, behavior interventionists, and equipping them with the skills to create individualized educational plans and promote academic success for students with diverse learning needs.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Learning and Behavior Disorders/Elementary Education (LBD/ELED) prepares future teachers to earn dual certification in special education and elementary education. Graduates will be qualified to teach in general elementary classrooms (K-5) or special education settings (K-12) for students with learning and behavior disorders, including specific learning disabilities, autism, and emotional/behavioral disorders.
This program equips you to support diverse learners in inclusive environments, and with dual certification, you’ll be in high demand to meet the needs of students in both general and special education. Upon graduation, you can also pursue advanced degrees in related fields such as special education or applied behavior analysis.
Students gain over 200 field hours in both general education and special education settings and complete a semester of student teaching split between the two. This hands-on experience ensures you are well prepared for your teaching career.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
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What You'll Learn
The Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) and Elementary Education curriculum combines coursework in special education and elementary education with extensive field experiences and student teaching, equipping future educators with the skills to create supportive and effective learning environments. Students gain expertise in individualized instruction, behavior management, assessment, content, and inclusive teaching strategies tailored to diverse learners. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan for the different options.
Below is a template that outlines the typical course progression for this major. Actual progression may vary based on factors such as AP/IB credits, dual enrollment, transfer credits, and individual academic readiness. A College of Education academic advisor will help develop a path to graduation that is best suited for you. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
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Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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