This robust and specialized degree program is designed for any individual who seeks an elementary or cross-categorical teaching certificate to teach children with special needs in the K-12 setting.

Participants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval. In addition, participants should consult the Grand Canyon University Catalog and academic advisor to obtain current information about teacher credentialing programs.

Courses in this state and regionally accredited program are taught by experts in their respective fields who share knowledge and experience in areas of learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disabilities, and other physical and cognitive impairments. Opportunities are provided to apply concepts, theories, and research throughout the program. Assignments within each course guide students through observational and practice-based experiences.

Teacher candidates must have access to a K-12 special education classroom to complete the program assignments. Teacher candidates must be prepared to complete a full-time, 16-week student teaching component at the end of the program. Eight weeks of student teaching is completed in a regular education setting and 8 weeks is completed in a resource room, self-contained class, or in a special school for students with disabilities. These special education settings must include at least 3 or more of the following disability categories: mental retardation, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, physical/health impairments; and they must be completed with a certified special education teacher.

Graduates of this program are prepared to become effective educators in both regular education and special education settings, and to implement individualized educational plans to accommodate the students' various learning, behavioral, and social needs.

Prospective candidates should already have some previous college experience prior to enrolling.

The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in English is a program for students who are preparing for a teaching career in grades K-8, inclusive of elementary and middle school, and who are seeking initial teacher certification or licensure. This program is offered both online and on the main campus and requires a minimum of 24 credits in the content area. In the English emphasis, the program covers the comprehensive English education for elementary students, including analysis of world and American literature, grammar, linguistics, as well as literary criticism and analysis.

Student applicants are responsible for contacting their state department of education for certification requirements and program approval.

Prospective candidates should have some previous college experience.