Special Education, Exceptional Student Education K-12 (B.A.E.)
Program at a Glance
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Education
- Credit Hours: 120
- Certification: FL Teacher Certification in Exceptional Student Education (ESE); endorsement in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
- Location: UNF Campus
- Application Deadlines: April 1; Fall Admit Only
Program Description
The Bachelor of Arts in Exceptional Student Education is a state-approved, CAEP-accredited program that prepares future educators to teach students with disabilities in inclusive and specialized educational settings. The program focuses on developing highly skilled, reflective teachers who are equipped to support academic achievement, positive behavior and social-emotional growth for learners with diverse needs.
Grounded in evidence-based practices and aligned with state and federal standards, the curriculum emphasizes instructional strategies, assessment, behavior support and collaboration with families and professionals. Students gain a strong foundation in understanding disabilities, differentiated instruction, classroom management and culturally responsive teaching practices that promote access for all learners.
The program is sequential in nature, with some courses offered only once per year, making early planning and regular advising essential. Students complete structured field experiences, pre-internships and a full-semester internship in school settings, where they work closely with experienced mentor teachers and university faculty. These immersive experiences allow candidates to apply theory to practice, refine instructional skills and build confidence in real classroom environments.
Successful completion of the program leads to eligibility for Florida Professional Teacher Certification in Exceptional Student Education, along with an ESOL endorsement. Graduates are well-prepared to begin careers as exceptional student education teachers or to pursue advanced study in education, special education or related fields. With a strong commitment to collaboration and student-centered learning, program completers are ready to make a meaningful impact in schools and communities.
Program Details
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Course Catalog
Explore the coursework that prepares you to teach and support students with disabilities. The course catalog outlines the required coursework for the Bachelor of Arts in Exceptional Student Education, including foundational classes in disability studies, instructional strategies, assessment, behavior support and classroom management. Each course is designed to help you build strong professional knowledge and practical teaching skills needed to promote academic progress, positive behavior and meaningful learning experiences for students with disabilities. -
Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE)
- Students must pass the General Knowledge Exam prior to reaching 90 credits to remain in the major.
- Students must have attempted the Professional Education and Subject Area certification exams prior to beginning the internship.
- Students must pass the Professional Education, Subject Area and General Knowledge certification exams to be eligible for graduation.
Career Outlook
There is a strong demand for certified exceptional student education teachers who are prepared to support students with disabilities in a variety of educational settings. Graduates of the Exceptional Student Education program are well-prepared to work in public and private schools, collaborating with families and professionals to promote academic progress and positive behavior. Many graduates become exceptional student education teachers, while others pursue roles in instructional support, educational services, or graduate study in special education or related fields.
Admission Requirements
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Freshman
Ready to apply to UNF? Learn more about Freshman Admissions Requirements. -
Transfer
- Admission into the College of Education and Human Services requires a minimum of 60 semester hours or a state of Florida AA degree with a grade point average of 2.50 or better. Find specific admission criteria for this program on your Degree Evaluation, college website, university catalog or consult your academic advisor. For more information visit the Office of Academic Support and Information Services (OASIS) webpage.
- A minimum grade of "C" is required in all course work earned for the Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAE).
- Ready to apply to UNF? Learn more about Transfer Admissions Requirements.
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International
Ready to apply to UNF? Learn more about International Admissions Requirements.
Program Contacts
Dr. Caroline Guardino
Program Director, Silverfield Endowed Professor
Jade Yuen
Associate Director of Outreach, Recruitment and Retention
