Childhood Special Education, Grade 1-6, BA
Developmental and Special Education Department
Program Overview
Want to lead an inclusive or self-contained elementary classroom?
Our B.A. in Childhood Special Education focuses on the complex learning needs of students in Grades 1-6. This program provides you with dual certification in general and special education, making you a versatile educator ready to effectively support and advocate for all learners in public, private, and charter elementary schools across New York City and beyond.
Major
Description
This Bachelor of Arts degree grants initial NY State dual certification in General Education and Special Education for Grades 1-6. Graduates are highly sought after in elementary school settings, including NY City public, private, and charter schools. Career paths are diverse and include Special Education Classroom Teacher, Resource Room Teacher, Reading/Math Specialist, and even leadership roles such as Principal/Assistant Principal.
New York State Department of Education recommends as part of its requirements that degree programs include a subject area concentration. The concentrations associated with the degree iin Childhood Special Educaiton are:
- English
- Math
- Science
- Social Science (Social Studies)
Student
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
-
Analyze the multiple influences on human development to create inclusive and supportive learning environments that demonstrate academic rigor, high expectations, commitment and care. -
Implement diverse, evidence based instructional strategies across content areas, including reteaching and modified lessons for children in general education, as well as targeted Response to Intervention (RTI) supports for students in or at risk for special education placement. -
Design and deliver content aligned curricula that meet state and national standards while remaining culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate. -
Use assessment data to monitor student progress, inform instruction, and advocate effectively for learner needs. -
Integrate technology and computational thinking to enhance pedagogical practice and prepare students for a digital world. -
Demonstrate professional ethics, rigorous academic scholarship, and a commitment to ongoing growth as an educational leader.
Major
Requirements
As part of your degree, you must fulfill the CUNY Pathways general education requirements, which consist of the Common Core (Required and Flexible) and the Medgar Evers College Option. These courses provide the essential quantitative, scientific, and socio-cultural literacy that complements your technical training.
Degree Map
A Degree Map is an essential advising tool. It provides a suggested sequence of courses designed to ensure students complete all degree requirements efficiently, typically within four years.
Please visit the Degree Map to review the course requirements for the B.A. in Childhood Special Education.
Flexible Learning Options
This program offers the same rigorous curriculum in two formats to fit your schedule:
- On-Campus: Traditional classroom experience.
- 100% Online: Fully asynchronous or synchronous remote learning for maximum flexibility.
- Note: Degree requirements and learning outcomes are identical for both tracks.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you have questions regarding the Department of Education or need assistance navigating the application process, please reach out to our department office.
dmaldonado@mec.cuny.edu
Phone: 718 270-4910
Location: 1650 Bedford Avenue, B-1007