Special Education Licensure

Eastern Oregon University administrative building Inlow Hall in summer

Special Education Initial Teacher Licensure

The mission of the SEITL undergraduate program is to prepare dynamic special educators to support students with exceptionalities in the classroom. In line with EOU’s official designation as Oregon’s “Rural University,” we emphasize the knowledge and skills needed to be effective in rural school settings. If you’re interested in a professional career that will make a lasting impact on your community and in the lives of students with a diverse range of learning differences, then this is the program for you!


Program Model

The SEITL undergraduate program is a comprehensive, two-year hybrid program that combines coursework in core content areas and structured in-person classroom placements. By pairing coursework alongside practical classroom experiences, SEITL undergraduate teacher candidates are provided with opportunities to put theory and strategies into practice.

The hybrid nature of the program makes it more accessible to students who are unable to move to La Grande–classes are held online so it isn’t necessary to come to campus. This kind of program is ideal for classified school district employees who need to keep their jobs working as educational assistants or paraprofessionals in classrooms but want to eventually become special education teachers. Since part of the program includes classroom-based practicum and student teaching experiences, it is possible for students to satisfy these credit requirements in the classroom they are working in for their job.

New cohorts begin each fall and students are required to complete all courses in the program in the order they are offered. Program completion entails 76 quarter credits–55 comprising coursework and 21 comprising practicum and student teaching field placements. 

Requirements

Students preparing to teach special education are required to complete the Multidisciplinary Studies major and a major in special education. 

For more information about this program, contact an advisor.

Steps to Apply

STEP 1: Apply to Eastern Oregon University

Apply to EOU and connect with our Admissions and Financial Aid office for awesome support.

STEP 2: Apply to Special Education Initial Teacher Licensure Program at EOU

Final Deadline: September 1, 2024


Course Delivery 


All classes are held via Zoom in the late afternoons and early evenings to accommodate work schedules.. Classroom placements occur in schools throughout Union county and beyond. This program is ideal for the individual seeking a traditional, in-person college experience.

Outcomes


After completing this program, teacher candidates will have the skills necessary to:

  • Select from and deliver a variety of evidence-based special education practices.
  • Understand how to collect and use data to inform educational decisions.
  • Collaborate effectively with families, students, and other educators/service providers.
  • Adhere to the many legal and procedural aspects of special education.

Licensure 


SEITL undergraduate program candidates must earn a passing score on the Oregon Educator Licensure Assessment (ORELA) Special Education Test to qualify for state licensure. This test is completed near the end of the 4th term of the program as part of the transition into student teaching.


Program Coordinator

Dr. Jerred Jolin

Jerred Jolin, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Special Education

Phone: 541.962.3537
Email: jjolin@eou.edu
Office: ZH-230

Program Advisor

Kylie Evans

Kylie Evans

Education Advisor and UG Ed Program Admission Coordinator

Phone: 541.962.3623
Email: krevans@eou.edu
Office: ZH-225