Special Education K-12 Generalist (Licensure), BA (CAGS)

Within the context of a Christian worldview, the Bachelor of Arts in Special Education, K-12 Generalist Licensure degree provides a challenging, theory-based and application-oriented approach to special education. Students acquire knowledge, develop skills, and demonstrate competencies necessary to teach effectively in the special education setting. Courses and field experiences develop educators who are dedicated to addressing diverse learner needs with excellence through servant-leadership in their field and in society.

As schools of the 21st century strive to increase performance of all students, they provide multiple tiers of research-based instruction to meet a variety of student needs. The special education generalist plays a critical role in providing instruction and support for students with disabilities across the tiers. Generalists are good problem solvers who ask questions, continually reflect on and adjust their practice, are committed to individualization and collaboration, and believe all students can learn.

The emphasis on becoming a licensed teacher enhances the student's instructional skills through the study of curriculum development, learning assessment, psychological foundations, teaching methods, and critical thinking. These principles are then put into practical application through 160 clock hours of field-based experiences throughout the first two semesters, culminating in a semester-long, full-time (640 clock hours) student teaching practicum in their community.

Students who satisfactorily complete all requirements of the Bachelor of Arts Special Education Generalist Licensure program and satisfy additional state-defined licensure requirements are qualified to apply for a K-12 special education license in Colorado and many other states. Out-of-state students are responsible for verifying their home state's licensure process and requirements. Click here to learn more about program licensing and licensure requirements for each state. Program graduates also meet the educational requirements to apply for elementary education licensing through the Colorado Department of Education. Additionally, program graduates meet requirements for certification by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) to teach in schools around the world.

Upon completion of this program, students may apply to CCU's program (MACI) or program programs and transfer undergraduate program credits as follows: For the MACI degree, course is eligible for transfer. For the MEd Special Education degree, course is eligible for transfer into this degree.

Time Limitations

All degree program requirements must be completed within four years beginning from the start date of the first education course within the professional core of the program. After the four-year period, a student who has not completed the program requirements will be withdrawn from the program unless an exception to policy request to extend this time limitation is submitted by the student and approved by the program director.  In this case, the student’s CCU transcript will be reviewed by the program director.  At the director’s discretion, if an extension is approved, a program course may have to be retaken if the content of the course has received substantive changes since it was last taken by the student. 

Students who step out of the program for more than 365 days or go beyond the four-year period without an approved extension and wish to complete the program will be required to apply for re-admission. If approved for readmission, the student’s CCU transcript will be reviewed by the program director.  At the director’s discretion, a program course may have to be retaken by the re-admitted student if the content of the course has received substantive changes since it was last taken by the student. Students will be required to adhere to current academic policies, program requirements, tuition, and fees.

Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Arts in Special Education, K-12 Generalist with Licensure program requires completion of the following 120 hours:
General Education Core (45 credits)
Special Education Professional Core (50 credits)
Electives (25 credits)

Professional Licensure Disclosure

Colorado Christian University offers several academic programs which lead to professional licensure in the state of Colorado and, in some programs, prepare students for a national exam. All students should be aware that states vary in their educational and professional requirements depending on the profession. Some states require specific educational requirements, clinical requirements, accreditation requirements, or exam requirements. See professional licensure disclosures for details.