Program Overview
Towson University has a long history and reputation as an excellent teacher training institution with programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Maryland State Department of Education. This Elementary Education/Special Education (EESE) major offered at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) is a part-time program designed specifically for paraeducators and support staff within Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) who are interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree in elementary and/or special education.
The field of special education is rapidly changing. There is a critical need for teachers who can meet the cognitive, behavioral, social, emotional, linguistic, and cultural needs of all children in today's classrooms. This specially designed major provides the opportunity to become certified in both elementary education (grades 1–6) and special education (grades 1–8). The degree prepares graduates to become elementary classroom teachers or elementary/middle special education teachers.
Students benefit from innovative and dynamic coursework, transformative internship experiences in Montgomery County Public Schools, experienced faculty mentors committed to student success, a supportive cohort of fellow Towson University students, and collaborative partnerships with families, communities, and agencies.