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Undergraduate Program - Online
Special Education

Online Bachelor's Degree in Special Education

 

Prepare for careers in special education on your schedule. Earn your online Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Buena Vista University and develop the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to support learners of all abilities in inclusive classrooms.

Degree
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Format
Online
Internships
Yes, classroom-based
Careers
Licensure: K-8 Strat I Mild/Moderate, 5-12 Strat I Mild/Moderate, K-12 Strat II Cognitive, and K-12 Strate II Behavioral

Why Choose BVU Online

Designed for busy adults, transfer students, and students seeking flexibility, BVU Online helps you earn your degree while balancing your goals, commitments, and career. With affordable, career-focused programs and personalized support, you can build skills, increase your earning potential, and take the next step toward your future.

Learn Anytime

Study from anywhere with flexible, asynchronous online coursework that fits your schedule.

Personalized Support

Receive one-on-one support from dedicated faculty and academic advisors from enrollment through graduation.

Small Classes. Big Connections.

Learn in small classes where meaningful connections and personalized attention help you succeed.

Flexible Pathways

Transfer eligible credits and choose a full-time or part-time pace that helps you finish your bachelor's degree.

Online Student Studying
Program Snapshot

Quick Facts

Whether you're starting college or completing a degree you previously began, BVU Online meets you where you are.

  • 100% Online
  • 7.5-Week Terms
  • Seamless Transfer: Transfer up to 60 credits from an accredited community college or up to 90 credits from an accredited four-year college or university—up to a maximum of 90 total transfer credits.
  • Six Start Dates Throughout the Year
In the Classroom

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Inclusive Learning Environments

Learn how to create supportive, engaging classrooms where students of all abilities can succeed.

Co-teaching Strategies

Develop co-teaching and classroom collaboration skills to effectively partner with general education teachers and support diverse learners.

IEP Writing

Gain hands-on experience writing, implementing, and evaluating IEPs to meet students' unique needs.

Assistive Technology

Explore technology and adaptive tools that help students access learning, build independence, and reach their full potential.

Behavior Support

Learn how to use positive behavior strategies and student data to guide instruction, monitor progress, and improve learning outcomes.

Where Graduates Work

BVU special education graduates go far.

Public and private schools across Iowa and the Midwest BVU has more graduates in Iowa classrooms than any other private college in the state, with beavers in every school district.
Career Outcomes

Where this degree can take you

Special Education Teacher (K–12)
Inclusion or Resource Room Teacher
Behavior Intervention Specialist
Instructional Support Specialist
Educational Advocate
Online student at a computer

You're Online, But Never on Your Own

At BVU, online students are part of a supportive learning community. Whether you need help planning your courses, transferring credits, improving your writing, or preparing for your next career move, you'll have a team ready to help every step of the way.

Learn more about the BVU Online student experience.

Maximize Your Transfer Credits

Our team will provide a free transcript evaluation to determine how your previous coursework applies toward your degree.

Also Available on Campus:

Prefer a traditional college experience? BVU also offers this program in a face-to-face format on our Storm Lake campus. Talk with an enrollment counselor to explore the path that fits your goals.

Explore Coursework

Curriculum Highlights

A flexible program that lets you explore your interests while building a strong foundation in special education. Your coursework is designed to build the knowledge and skills needed for success in your field. Click here for complete program requirements and course descriptions in the Academic Catalog.

Your Career. Your Way.

Build a path that fits you.

Ready to earn your special education degree online?