Elementary and Special Education (Integrated), B.A.
Teach with purpose, empower every student.
Pursue your passion for teaching in a program that prepares you to lead inclusive K-6 classrooms where all students can succeed. In the Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Elementary and Special Education program, you’ll learn to create engaging, age-appropriate lessons and support learners of all abilities—academically, socially and emotionally. Through hands-on experience and a strong foundation in both general and special education, you’ll graduate confident and classroom-ready.
Request Information
Take the next step toward completing your B.A. in Integrated Elementary and Special Education degree at LR.
Get StartedTake the next step toward completing your Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Elementary and Special Education at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Major Requirements
The Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Elementary & Special Education prepares teachers for grades K-6, equipping them to effectively instruct all students, including those with special needs, within the general curriculum. This program integrates best practices in both elementary and special education, ensuring graduates are prepared to meet the diverse learning needs of all children. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in the liberal arts, complemented by indepth study of educational theory, pedagogy, child development, and assessment. Students gain practical experience through extensive clinical experiences in public school classrooms, working alongside experienced educators. The program culminates in an intensive internship during the fall semester of the senior year, providing a bridge between coursework and practice, followed by a full-semester student teaching experience in the spring. Graduates will be prepared to create learning environments that support the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student.
-
General Education Requirements (37 hours)
Graduation Requirements (4 hours)
-
Major Requirements (60 Hours)
- EDU 301 - Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment
- EDU 304 - Using the Arts, Literature, and Social Sciences to Integrate the Curriculum
- EDU 306 - The Science of Reading
- EDU 312 - Foundations of Reading I
- EDU 352L - Foundations of Reading I Lab
- EDU 321 - Foundations of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I
- EDU 323L - Foundations of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I LAB
- EDU 322 - Foundations of Reading II
- EDU 362L - Foundations of Reading II Lab
- EDU 331 - Foundations of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II
- EDU 324L - Foundations of Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II Lab
- EDU 401 - edTPA Concepts and Support I
- EDU 406 - Inclusive Elementary Curriculum Principles of Teaching and Learning
- EDU 409 - Writing Methods
- EDU 409L - Writing Methods Lab
- EDU 423 - Student Teaching Seminar (K-6 Consult & Collaboration)
- EDU 431 - Field Experience in Elementary/K-6 Education
- EDU 444 - edTPA Concepts & Support II
- EDU 447 - Student Teaching for Elementary Education (K-6)
- SED 320 - Differentiation and Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- SED 330 - Introduction to Special Education
- SED 420 - Special Education Assessment & Planning
- SED 430 - Classroom Management and Positive Behavioral Support
- SED 435 - Applied Behavioral Analysis for Teachers
-
General Elective Credits
General Electives (19 hours) as needed to reach 120 hours overall.
-
Total Credit Hours - Minimum 120 hours
On occasion, program requirements may also meet specific General Education requirements. Please confer with your program advisor to determine which courses, if any, may be counted accordingly.
All bachelor's degree programs at Lenoir-Rhyne require at least 120 credit hours. If, in combination, General Education, technical, and program requirements do not generate at least 120 hours, additional credits must be completed to achieve 120 hours. These classes may be general electives, or a student may complete a minor or additional major.
Admission & Financial Aid
-
Undergraduate AdmissionOur admission team is here to assist you in making the college search process as easy as possible. Our counselors are happy to provide the information and guidance you need to submit your application, apply for financial aid and scholarships, visit and tour our campus.
-
Financial AidWe recognize that paying for college is a top concern for students and their families. Our financial aid staff is here to provide you with financial aid options and assistance to help you achieve your educational goals.
News & Events
Across ceremonies held in Hickory, Asheville and Columbia on May 7-9, LR celebrated 578 undergraduate and graduate students earning their degrees and stepping into their next chapters as alumni.
View More
SOURCE 2026 highlighted student excellence across a range of disciplines, featuring Honors Thesis Competition winners and the inaugural Bears Engage awards.
View More