Elementary Education BS

To teach special education is to touch a life forever.

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Special education teachers are in high demand – our program prepares you to answer the call.

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In contrast to our Bachelor of Arts in elementary education, the Bachelor of Science in elementary education provides you with specialized tools and experiences to work in special education, a challenging yet richly rewarding career for which there is increased demand throughout the country.

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In-Demand Careers

  • Special Education Teacher
  • Special Education Administrator
  • Early Intervention Specialist
  • Instructional Coordinator
  • Advocacy Manager
  • Behavior Analyst

Why Elementary Education? | Why Our Program?

  • Our graduates are qualified to teach Grades 1-6 in both elementary education and special education, including culturally and linguistically diverse students with exceptionalities.
  • You choose one of three concentrations: mild to moderate disabilities, severe intellectual disabilities, or mild to moderate and severe intellectual disabilities.
  • Topics covered in the BS in elementary education curriculum include: literacy intervention; social, emotional and behavioral learning; ESL instruction; educational psychology; specialized language instruction; and foundations and strategies for teaching all learners.

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Second Bachelor’s Degree Options

Elementary Education BS to Special Education MED

The RIC Advantage

The Feinstein School of Education and Human Development at RIC is a nationally recognized leader in the field and has a legacy of producing award-winning educators.

Our Elementary Education Faculty

Hear from the Dean

Carol Cummings

Carol Cummings

“I hope that you will boldly join our over 12,000 School of Education alumni. Rooted in the values of equity, diversity and social advocacy, Rhode Island College was founded in 1854 specifically to train future teachers. You could be one of them!”

Our Value Recognized

Rhode Island College entrance

Feinstein School of Education and Human Development

The Feinstein School administers and coordinates all professional education programs at Rhode Island College. We offer a range of programs, including early childhood, pre-K-12, counseling, school psychology, youth development and health and wellness.

Carolyn Obel-Omia

Dr. Carolyn H. Obel-Omia

Associate Professor