The Inclusive Education Programs are committed to the preparation of teachers for all students. We believe that educators can no longer choose to be prepared to teach only some of our students. Increasing numbers of students with disabilities are maintaining or regaining access to general education classrooms, curricula, and statewide assessments. Our programs are designed to provide systematic teacher preparation for the challenges and opportunities of today’s diverse classrooms.
Faculty members share an understanding that inclusion reflects, at both the state and national level as well as within the programs, a shift in philosophy from earlier models of schooling. We believe that the inclusive classroom is the best environment for all learners. Inclusion benefits children and teachers because it mirrors society and encourages learners and teachers to operate from points of strength, not deficit. In these programs the concepts of diversity and inclusivity encompass the following areas: cultural/ethnic, linguistic, social class, learning style and “intelligence/s,” gender, and exceptionalities (including both students who are gifted and talented and students who have disabilities). With this as a guiding vision, the following mission statement frames the programs:
The Inclusive Education Programs seek to prepare teachers who affirm the membership of all students within increasingly diverse classrooms and who are skilled at utilizing learning theory and strategies to address the range of needs of all learners.
The programs prepare educators with:
The knowledge base necessary to teach in inclusive settings;
The disposition to value the range of learners in inclusive settings while striving to meet all learner needs;
And the skills to implement evolving professional practices based on current theory and research.
Additional Program Information
Accreditation:
The Teacher Education program is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC). This accreditation includes all Master of Science in Education degree programs.
Financial Aid:
Yes
Requirements:
Completed Online Application, completion of the professional statement as described on the application, official transcripts from all colleges attended, two letters of recommendation and resume.
International Requirements:
Submission of a World Education Services (WES) evaluation of the Bachelors degree equivalency, Declaration of Finances form, Bank Affidavit, and TOEFL score.
