VCU School of Education - Bridging Opportunities

• The VCU Experience
• Academics & Programs
  • Degree & Certificate Program
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    • Counselor Education
    • Educational Leadership
    • Foundations of Education
    • Health and Human
         Performance
    • Special Education and
         Disability Policy
    • Teaching and Learning
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  • Doctoral Studies
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• Research
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Overview

Mission
Our mission is to make a difference in the lives of children, youth, and adults with disabilities through research, teaching, and service. Our faculty, students, university colleagues, and community partners work together to generate knowledge, investigate effective strategies, disseminate evidence-based practices, advocate for individuals and their families, and promote exemplary programs.

Research

Faculty and doctoral students actively engage in research across the lifespan in a wide array of areas. Current research initiatives include: early learning environments for culturally and linguistically diverse children, behavior problem prevention in early childhood, youth violence prevention, self-determination and transition, adolescent/adult employment and self-sufficiency, impact of disability policy on  youth transition, adults with learning disabilities, and community engagement for personnel preparation.   

Programs

Our programs prepare doctoral level scholars for faculty and leadership roles, advanced practitioners for current needs, and aspiring educators for early intervention, school age, and transition services. All of our teacher preparation programs are externally funded through grants from Office of Special Education Programs (US Department of Education), Virginia Department of Education, or local school and community programs. Our doctoral students have opportunities for expanded development through the Preparing Future Faculty Program, VA LEND, and externships in state and national arenas.

Service

VCU’s strong tradition of community engagement is central to the department’s collaborative programs and affiliated centers. Our research and teaching is based on collaboration with local school districts, community and state agencies, national technical assistance centers, and policymakers. Our two affiliated centers, the Partnership for People with Disabilities and the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, provide significant service via local, state, national and international research, technical assistance, personnel development, and advocacy.