Pursue your passion for elementary education and special education. Gain competitive credentials for teaching with an online dual certification degree program from Campbellsville University.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Program Details
Next Start Date: 5/08/2024
Course Length: 16 weeks
Estimated Length: 4.5 years
B.S. Learning & Behavior Dis. (P-12) + Elementary Ed. (P-5) Overview
The online Bachelor of Science in Learning & Behavior Disorders (P–12)/Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification degree is a dual licensure program that prepares you to become a special education and elementary education teacher. Earn your bachelor’s degree and two licensures with one online program and complete your undergraduate education faster while saving money.
Courses for the dual licensure program are taught through an interactive, online learning platform. Our faculty are education experts who bring real-world teaching experience into the online classroom.
As you complete each course, you’ll build expert skills in learning theory, concentration methodology, classroom management, differentiating instruction and more. You’ll also complete a student teaching opportunity that will allow you to gain hands-on experience working with current teachers and students inside the classroom.
When you complete the online Learning & Behavior Disorders (P–12)/Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification dual licensure program, you’ll be prepared for the Praxis exam and to start a career in elementary education and/or special education in Kentucky. You’ll also have the credential to pursue advanced academic opportunities, including graduate education. You’ll enter the workforce with a bachelor’s degree, two licenses and a competitive edge in your field.
Campbellsville’s education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and are approved by the Education Professional Standards Board of Kentucky (EPSB) for teacher education and certification.
Program Outcomes
When you complete both programs for the dual licensure degree, you’ll be prepared to:
- Teach as a special education teacher and/or elementary teacher
- Create lesson plans that best fit the needs of your learners
- Apply the servant leadership model to teaching practice and professional development
- Build relationship and communication skills for a more effective learning environment
- Experience real-life examples of how to approach pedagogy for teaching and assessing students with learning disabilities and behavior disorders
Course Map
This dual certification program consists of 136 credit hours. It includes general education, foundational and related studies courses along with 200 required clinical practice hours embedded in the courses and a 16-week student teaching requirement. The online Learning & Behavior Disorders (P–12)/Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification degree dual program can be completed in four and a half years, depending on transfer credits and previous academic experience.
The General Education component of undergraduate degrees provides the student with a basic understanding of a 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 220 Introduction to Teaching
- ED 300 Human Development and Learning Theory
- ED 331 Social Studies Methodology
- ED 341 Math Methodology
- ED 343 Science Methodology
- ED 361 Language Arts Methodology
- ED 390 Assessment and Instructional Strategies
- ED 414 Classroom Management
- SED 103 Introduction to Special Education
- SED 105 Introduction to Learning Disabilities
- SED 107 Theories of Reading and Educational Practices (P–12)
- 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
Choose one of the following:
- ED 351 Reading Methodology
- SED 412 Development Reading in Middle & High School
- BIO 110 Introduction to Biology
- BIO 104 Biology Lab
- CHE 100 Introduction to Chemistry
- CHE 103 Introduction to Chemistry Lab
- ENG 361 Modern English Grammar
- ED 371 Children’s Literature
- GEG 315 World Geography
- HST 110 U.S. History to 1877
- MTH 201 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers
- MTH 202 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers
- POL 110 American Government
- ED 450 Student Teaching
Admissions Requirements
To apply for Campbellsville University’s CAEP-accredited Bachelor of Science in Learning & Behavior Disorders (P–12)/Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification degree, 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 less than 24 credit hours, submit an official high school transcript
- Minimum GPA of 2.0
Costs & Financial Aid
The online Learning & Behavior Disorders (P–12)/Elementary Education (P–5) Initial Certification degree costs $424 per credit hour. To help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff can work with students to discover available financial aid options.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine what scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans are available. 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 into this program.
Campbellsville University is a military-friendly school and is proud to participate in the Yellow Ribbon program. U.S. military service members serving at home or abroad and veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Elementary and Special Education
Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with the skills to sit for the Praxis exam and pursue a teaching career in elementary education or special education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, elementary school teachers earn a median salary of $60,660 per year, while SPED teachers earn a median salary of $61,500 per year. Both teaching occupations are growing steadily at 7-8%. More than 148,000 new positions are expected to be created by 2030.
Why CU Online?
Focused on Your Growth
Our well-rounded education in the arts and sciences is central to our goal of fostering your personal and professional growth.
Faith-Based Education
Founded in 1906 as a Christian university, we welcome diverse perspectives and prepare students to become Christian servant leaders.
Affordable and Convenient
Campbellsville seeks to provide an affordable education for its students. Our online degree programs are in a convenient format, so you can study whenever and wherever you want.
Accreditation
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates, associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the status of Campbellsville University.
Benefits of Learning Online
Campbellsville University offers several dynamic online degrees so that students can continue their education and hone their skills. Campbellsville’s online campus has been recognized as one of the best by numerous outlets. The institution’s faculty members have real-world experience in their fields, so students can get a glimpse of working in their prospective career. Students can also conveniently fit online coursework into their busy schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.