About this Bachelor's Degree
Since 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has served as the flagship for teacher education in our state. Our professors are highly respected as leaders in research and service as it relates to preparing future teachers, and our graduates hold teaching positions across the globe. We are proud and confident because of the foundation they received at Southern Miss.
The Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Special Education prepares individuals to teach or work in several areas of exceptionality. At the undergraduate level, the licensure track program leads to licensure in mild/moderate disabilities (K-12) in the state of Mississippi. The special education undergraduate program requires preparation in mild/moderate disabilities as well as study in two additional areas of emphasis.
The Professional Education Unit at The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
B.S. students in Special Education who will be seeking teaching licensure are required to complete on-site practicum experiences in special education classrooms. All students, including online students, are required to attend practicum experiences either in the Hattiesburg or Gulf Coast area during their junior and senior years.
If you are currently employed in a public school setting as a Special Education teacher’s assistant, you may request an exemption to this requirement by contacting the Department of Curriculum, Instruction and Special Education.
B.S. students in Special Education who are seeking teaching licensure are also required to complete a one-semester teacher candidacy (student teaching) experience. Students may request a courtesy placement outside of the greater Hattiesburg or Gulf Coast areas when applying for teacher candidacy.
B.S. students in Special Education who are NOT seeking licensure are not required to complete practicum or student teaching experiences. See Special Education (Non-Licensure) - B.S.
Student Learning Outcomes / Program Objectives
- Candidates will demonstrate a special education content knowledge.
- Special Education Teacher Candidates will demonstrate a special education pedagogical knowledge.
- Special Education Teacher Candidates will use assessment information to plan differentiated experiences that accommodate differences in developmental and/or educational needs.
- Teacher Candidates will impact student learning by integrating technology effectively in instruction.
- Special Education Teacher Candidates will use family and/or community resources (human or material) in lessons to enhance student learning.