Exceptional Student Education

Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education

Offered on USF's Tampa campus
(*Option at St. Petersburg Campus)

USF’s Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Student Education prepares teachers to support students with diverse learning and behavioral needs in grades K–12. This 66-credit hour hybrid program blends coursework with hands-on field experiences and leads to °®ÎÛ´«Ã½ teacher certification with Reading and ESOL endorsements.

What you will learn

Students gain the knowledge and skills to create inclusive classrooms that meet the needs of all learners. You’ll learn to design and deliver effective instruction, manage positive learning environments, assess student progress, and collaborate with families and professionals. Through field experiences each semester, you’ll apply evidence-based strategies that improve learning and behavioral outcomes for students with exceptionalities.

a working professional sits behind a desk taking notes with a mom and a young child on the other side of the desk

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are prepared for rewarding roles in K–12 education and beyond, including:

  • Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher
  • Behavior specialist
  • Reading interventionist
  • ESE specialist or coordinator
  • Curriculum or instructional support specialist
a woman sits and plays with an exceptional student

What to Expect

This 66-credit hour hybrid cohort program combines interactive coursework with field experiences each semester in K–12 classrooms. Students learn from expert faculty, collaborate with peers, and can work as paid paraprofessionals while earning their degree. The program culminates with an action research project and leads to °®ÎÛ´«Ã½ teacher certification in ESE with Reading and ESOL endorsements.

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Alumni Spotlight: Linda Morales

As a parent of three and a former stay-at-home mom, Linda Morales was no stranger to the term “parent involvement.â€

Linda Morales

This experience catapulted me into the direction of exceptional student education. I want to be an advocate for my students and emphasize to them how much they’re capable of.

Alexandra Plante