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Program at a Glance

Program
Online Bachelor's
College(s)
College of Community Innovation and Education
120
Credit Hours
Best Online Bachelor Program by U.S. News & World Report

Prepare to support students with disabilities inside and outside school settings.

Make an impact on your life and the lives of others through a career in special education. A fulfilling and enriching field, exceptional student education involves working with students with disabilities, and our noncertificate learning and language track helps prepare you to pursue an educational career outside of the traditional school setting.

With a shortage of well-qualified professionals, career demand for those seeking to work with students with special education requirements continues to grow both in Florida and across the country. Through UCF Online’s special education online programs, you’ll be given the opportunity to expand your knowledge and gain valuable skills that will help open professional opportunities for employment with nonprofits that serve persons with disabilities, as well as nontraditional education agencies that serve students with disabilities. Those interested in teaching can align specialization courses to meet state requirements and apply for certification after graduating.

Why UCF Online

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs through UCF Online’s Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education, Learning and Language track. Designed for those passionate about creating inclusive learning environments, this fully online program equips you with the knowledge and practical skills to support individuals with disabilities in educational and community settings. Through coursework exploring language development, behavioral management, communication disorders and specialized learning strategies, you’ll gain the tools to help learners reach their full potential. You’ll also have the opportunity to apply your knowledge through hands-on practicum experiences within your own community. With flexible online coursework, experienced faculty and dedicated student support, UCF Online empowers you to pursue a rewarding career in nonprofit organizations, educational agencies and other settings that serve individuals with disabilities.

Art teacher helping disabled child.

Highlights

Specialization courses designed to prepare students to meet state requirements and apply for certification after graduation
Ranked in the top 50 Best Education School from US News and World Reports
Fully online with flexible program schedule

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Fall
May 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
June 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1


Ready to
get started?

Course Overview

Theory and Practice of Teaching ESOL Students in Schools

This course focuses on methods of teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), ESOL curriculum and materials, cross-cultural understanding, applied linguistics in second language teaching, and test and evaluation of ESOL.

Explore the study of management techniques based on applied behavioral analysis principles for modifying inappropriate behaviors and maintaining appropriate behaviors of exceptional students.

Examine the spoken and written language development from infancy to adulthood.

Skills You'll Learn

  • Work with students with speech and language development disorders in developing strong communication skills
  • Build a stronger, more interactive classroom where students of all abilities thrive
  • Manage behavior and expectations within a classroom environment

Career Projections

59,761

Annual Job
Openings

1%

Job Growth
Between
2026 - 2036

Source: Lightcast™ . 2026

Career Opportunities

  • Early Childhood Special Education Teacher
  • Early Childhood Special Educator
  • High School Learning Support Teacher
  • High School Special Education Teacher
  • Middle School Special Education Teacher
  • Pre-K Special Education Teacher
  • Pre-Kindergarten Special Education Teacher
  • SED School Teacher
  • Secondary School Special Ed Teacher
  • Special Education Teacher for Adults with Disabilities