Exceptionality and Disability Minor

Department of Special Education and Education Leadership, Woodring College of Education

26-28 Credits

Introduction

Students who complete this minor typically seek employment in non-teaching settings, such as health and human services, behavioral clinics, government agencies, school support staff, and non-profit organizations; they do not qualify for a teaching certificate. Courses in this minor prepare students to support individuals with disabilities and other exceptionalities across a variety of settings.

Why Consider an Exceptionality and Disability Minor?

Many professionals work with persons with exceptionalities and/or disabilities in a variety of venues other than as teachers and do not require the same pedagogical knowledge base that is expected of special education teachers. However, to effectively advocate for and work with individuals with disabilities, it is imperative that professionals have a solid background in a variety of topics central to the provision of supporting individuals with disabilities.

We, in the Department of Special Education and Education Leadership, believe that professionals should support individuals with disabilities in accessing inclusive community opportunities that are available to persons without disabilities. A minor in Exceptionality and Disability provides foundational knowledge to professionals who interface across a variety of settings, including school, home, agencies, and community. Students in this minor receive instruction in behavior management, social justice in disability, supporting individuals with complex needs, and gain real world experience through service learning in the community.

Contact Information

Department Chair Charles Lambert Miller Hall 201E 360-650-2595 Charles.Lambert@wwu.edu

Program Director Jeffery Hart Miller Hall 202D 360-650-3724 Jeffery.Hart@wwu.edu

Teacher Education Admissions Miller Hall 150 360-650-3313 wce.wwu.edu/admission

Sample Careers

Supported employment provider | supported living supervisor | advocacy | community recreation specialist | positions with nonprofit agencies | Applied Behavior Analysis therapist | school support personnel | animals as therapy | and many other careers.

Major/Career Resources

www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

A minor declaration card, advising, and plan of study are obtained from Pprogram Director Jeffery Hart.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors. Students must complete the minor with a minimum GPA of 2.0 in minor course work.