The Bachelor of Science in Applied Education provides a streamlined pathway to teacher certification for working adults, including paraprofessionals already serving in K-12 schools. Available through online or hybrid coursework, the program maintains 91ÇÑ×Ó’s required professional education coursework and Nebraska certification requirements while reducing elective credits that are not necessary for certification.
Who it’s for
Working adults with relevant life or classroom experience who want to advance into a teaching career, particularly paraprofessionals working in K-12 schools. Students will be able to turn their classroom experiences into a teaching career through a shorter certification pathway.
What makes it different
Required education coursework, academic expectations, and Nebraska certification requirements remain the same while unnecessary elective credits are reduced. The program is designed to work well with school district grow-your-own programs and working paraprofessionals.
Advantages
The reduced-credit structure can shorten the time to graduation and lower the overall cost of earning a bachelor’s degree.
Modality
Fully online or hybrid, beginning spring 2027
Program Outcomes
Students will develop the knowledge and skills to understand diverse learners, create inclusive and engaging learning environments, plan and assess effective instruction, apply content in meaningful ways, collaborate and lead professionally, and positively impact student learning and development.
Options
Applied Education: Elementary Education (K-6)
The 95-credit Elementary Education option prepares students for Nebraska elementary teaching certification. The curriculum includes professional education, content and clinical preparation while reducing credits that are not necessary for the student’s certification pathway.
Applied Education: Special Education Generalist (K-12)
The 96-credit Special Education Generalist option prepares students for Nebraska K-12 special education certification. The curriculum prepares graduates to teach and support students with disabilities across elementary and secondary settings.