Program Overview
Towson University has a long history and reputation as an excellent teacher training institution with programs accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Maryland State Department of Education.
This Elementary Education/Special Education (EESE) major offered by Towson University at the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) is a part-time, three-year program designed specifically for paraeducators and support staff within the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) system who are interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree in elementary and/or special education. Successful completion of the program will lead you to obtain a Maryland State Certification with incredible tuitiion benefits specifically designed for MCPS employees. Get the knowledge and skills you need to be a highly effective educator.
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Why Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in EESE?
The field of special education is rapidly changing. There is a critical need for teachers who can meet the cognitive, behavioral, social, emotional, linguistic and cultural needs of all children in the classroom. This specially designed major provides the opportunity to become certified in both elementary education (1-6) and special education (1-8). This degree prepares you to be an elementary classroom teacher or an elementary/middle special education teacher. This comprehensive program offers:
- innovative and dynamic course work that helps you develop successful instruction and classroom management strategies
- transformative, real-world experiences through internship placements, offered in Montgomery County Public Schools
- experienced faculty-mentors committed to your success
- a supportive cohort of fellow Towson University students studying elementary education-special education
- collaborative partnerships with families, communities and agencies
How to Apply to the EESE Program
Email the EESE program representative, Jennifer Schnur (jschnur@towson.edu), to get more information about Towson University's Tiger Teachers Pathways Program at USG. From there, you will need to complete an application for Towson University, specifying the Elementary Education/Special Education on the Shady Grove campus. Other documents you will need to submit with your application include:
- A 1-2 page writing sample explaining your reasoning for wanting to enter this program
- Two professional references; we accept professors, supervisors, or employers as professional references
- A current resume or curriculum vitae
You will also need to have your transcript analyzed. First, complete a checklist of pre-requisite courses and send your unofficial transcripts to be evaluated. Once approved, official transcripts must be sent to main campus. Electronic transcripts can be sent via Parchment, E-Scripts, or Clearinghouse and emailed to admissions_documents@towson.edu or mailed to Towson University, Undergraduate Admissions, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252.
Decisions will be made on a rolling basis until the cohort is full.