This program is designed to provide initial teacher licensure in special education: general curriculum to individuals who have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university in a field other than education and desire to work in K-12 classrooms. In PAIL, students complete foundation courses in assessment in special education, instructional practices for students with mild to moderate disabilities, learning theory, and models of teaching. Specialty area courses in instructional practices for students with mild to moderate disabilities provide an introduction to the field, methods for teaching in the field, programming for the field, and clinical field experience. Throughout their course work, students have numerous opportunities to use cases and problem-based learning that includes appropriate implementation of inclusive practices.
Students also have an option for transitioning from this program into the M.Ed. program in which they may earn an additional license in learning disabilities (LD) or behavior/emotional disabilities (BED). Should a student desire to transition to the M.Ed. program, they must do so prior to completing 12 credit hours of PAIL. Up to 18 credit hours of course work from the plan of study for the Post-Baccalaureate Alternative Initial Teacher Licensure program in Special Education: General Curriculum may be applied to the Special Education: General Curriculum M.Ed. (with LD and BED options). A student must meet all admission requirements of the Graduate School and the Department of Specialized Education Services. Admission to the PAIL program does not constitute admission to the M.Ed. program in Special Education nor any other Graduate School degree program.
Above 21 credits plus the following (24 credits):
Categorical coursework (students choose one options):
LD Option
BED Option
PAIL Technology Portfolio Guidelines
Download Special Education Graduate Program Handbook (PDF)
Add-on Licensure
Beginning with the Fall 2004 semester, add-on licensure is available only to students who have completed a master's degree AND hold a teaching license in special education. If you have questions about add-on licensure, please contact the department.
*It is the students' responsibility to initiate the process and review it with their advisor before completing 12 program credits.
Contact: Dr. Teresa Little at tclittle@uncg.edu or the SES Department at ses@uncg.edu to request more information.