Students majoring in elementary/special education participate in program experiences that encourage an awareness of the uniqueness and commonalities of various cultures and complement the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to be culturally competent teachers. The Department of Elementary/Special Education at Providence College offers students interested in teaching careers a major leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Students who complete the degree program are eligible for dual certification in both elementary education and special education of students with mild/moderate disabilities.

The elementary/special education program prepares future teachers to educate all children in an inclusive education environment. This combined program allows students to approach the field of elementary-level education with an appreciation of individual differences and an understanding of ways to meet those differences.

Prior to student teaching, majors participate in four structured, sequential field experiences that provide them with opportunities to teach and interact with children in a variety of schools and classrooms. At least two of these experiences are in culturally and linguistically diverse schools. In addition, students are encourage to interact with children and the community through service and service learning activities. Beginning with the Class of 2014, the program culminates with a full year of student teaching-12 weeks with an elementary teacher and 12 weeks with an elementary special education teacher.

Through the combination of classroom study, multiple practicums, and student teaching at local schools, elementary/special education majors graduate from the program with an approval by the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the ability to teach in most states through NASDTEC Interstate Certification Contract.