Special Education (BA)

The Special Education major is designed for students pursuing a career in teaching. You’ll build a strong foundation of content knowledge in four core academic disciplines (English, math, science, and social studies) as part of your general education expectations. 

Plus you’ll engage in advanced coursework covering professional studies in education, so you’ll be well prepared for successful teaching experiences. 

The major includes the requirements for Virginia teacher licensure that must be completed before graduation. (The Liberal Arts and Interdisciplinary Studies major is available for those who wish to know more about education, but don’t want to complete the expectations for licensure.) 

Everything you need to become a teacher

Course requirements for the special education major are carefully aligned with requirements for teacher licensure in the state of Virginia, so you can work on earning your Special Education endorsement.

All MBU majors complete a senior capstone: This special project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills in lesson design, delivery of instruction, and research in conjunction with student teaching or another practicum experience. It can become a blueprint for your work in the classroom after graduation.

All Special Education majors get a student teaching placement in their final semester (we can work with you on a placement anywhere in the state of Virginia). You can learn more about student teaching with MBU here.

Majors are also well positioned for acceptance into Mary Baldwin’s combined bachelor of arts/master of education in teaching (BA/MEd) program. 

My true joy in life is seeing others fulfill their potential as teachers and community leaders. Giving back to our communities is a lifelong passion for me.

Dr. Alice Waddell
Assistant Professor of Education
Happy graduates

Cost and Financial Aid

A great education is worth it. Here’s how Mary Baldwin helps you pay for it: Generous financial aid packages, a broad range of scholarships, transferring maximum credit hours from previous coursework or relevant work and life experiences — the list goes on. Our mission is to help you level up and bring your aspirations to life.

The Mary Baldwin flag waving high above campus
The top cornice of Mary Baldwin University's dining hall. The top features arches and a pineapple topper.

Ready to apply?

Questions? Mary Baldwin’s admissions team is ready and available right now.

Eager to launch the next phase of your education? Simply fill out our application form. An admissions counselor will be in touch with a decision within a week!