Bachelor's Degree in Special Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Special Education is ideal for students who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with diverse learning needs and disabilities. This program prepares graduates for careers as special education teachers, behavioral interventionists, or inclusion specialists, equipping them with the skills to develop individualized education plans (IEPs) and create supportive, inclusive learning environments for students with a range of abilities.
Program Overview
The Special Education program prepares you to teach K–12 (ages 5–21) with a wide range of disabilities. This includes students with specific learning disabilities, other health impairments, emotional and behavioral disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism, and multiple disabilities. You'll gain hands-on experience in various elementary, middle, and high school settings, both urban and rural. From the start, you'll immerse yourself in over 200 hours of classroom observations across various disability categories and grade levels, followed by a full semester of student teaching.
Students who complete the program are prepared to earn two Kentucky teacher certifications: one in Learning/Behavior Disorders and another in Moderate to Severe Disabilities.
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 Special Education program prepares students to support and advocate for learners with diverse abilities in inclusive and specialized educational settings. Through coursework in assessment, instructional strategies, behavior management, and individualized education planning, students gain the skills needed to create supportive learning environments for students with disabilities. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, collaboration, and a strong foundation in educational theory and application.
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.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View PathwaysAdmission 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
"The College of Education and the University of Kentucky have thoroughly prepared me not only to be a Special Education teacher, but also to always fight for my student's rights and use education to change lives."
Meredith Davis
Special Education Graduate
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.
Expand Your Learning
You will be out in schools and in classrooms working with teachers and students from day one. We have strong relationships with local schools that provide unique teaching and externship experiences.
Get Involved!
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!
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
