Department of Child Development, Literacy, and Special Education

The Department of Child Development, Literacy, and Special Education (CLSE) at Appalachian State University offers innovative programs that focus on all facets of child development, reading, writing, language arts, and specific areas of special education. These programs provide coursework and field experiences in a variety of settings and can lead to licensure.

Mission

The CLSE Department creates active learning environments inviting communities of engaged faculty, college students, and community partners (CLSE community of practice) to promote learning, equitable access, and positive developmental outcomes for children, youth, and families. Our faculty prepare current and future professionals to respect the individual needs of children in school and beyond, and foster caring, stimulating environments that are responsive to their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development.

Celebrating the rich diversity in communities served by our current students and faculty, our department engages with community partners to collaborate in community-based initiatives. The CLSE community of practice explores innovative, justice-centered approaches to curriculum, pedagogy, and scholarship that contribute to a healthy, just, and sustainable society.

Undergraduate Programs

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Birth-Kindergarten Education (BS)

The Child Development - Birth to Kindergarten Education (licensure) program will develop your competencies to teach and lead in pre-K and kindergarten programs.

Children and an adult observing fish and plants together inside a clear glass bowl.

Child and Family Science (BS)

The Child Development - Child and Family Science (non-licensure) degree program provides foundational knowledge for direct service, programming, and advocacy.

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Special Education, Adapted K-12 (BS)

The Adapted Curriculum K–12 program prepares teachers to support students who need significant modifications to access the general curriculum.

Adults seated at tables in a learning space, working on laptops and discussion activities.

Special Education, General K-12 (BS)

The General Curriculum K-12 program prepares teachers to support students with disabilities in inclusive settings.

Child writing or drawing at a classroom table while an adult observes and supports learning activity.

Child Development (Minor)

The minor in Child Development provides a foundational understanding of child and family development across various life stages.

Adult interacting with two children in a classroom, using a plush toy during a learning activity.

Special Education, General (Minor)

The minor in Special Education provides a foundational understanding of strategies for supporting students with disabilities. Requires department approval.

Graduate Degree Programs

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Literacy Education (MA)

The M.A. in Literacy Education equips educators with evidence-based strategies to teach reading and language arts effectively to K–12 students.

An educator is interacting with a young child during a hands-on activity

Special Education (MA)

The M.A. in Special Education prepares skilled educators to design and lead effective special education programs in supportive, inclusive classrooms.

Graduate Certificates

Enhance your existing degree or professional experience with specialized, focused training. A graduate certificate can help you advance your current career, gain new skills, or explore a new career path.

Learn about graduate certificate programs in Child Development, Literacy, and Special Education.

Community Outreach

The Department of Child Development, Literacy and Special Education offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on experiential learning while also providing services to the community.

Two children participating in educational activities within a classroom setting.

Anderson Reading Clinic

The Anderson Reading Clinic offers year-round teacher training and one-on-one reading and writing support for children with reading challenges in our community.

A classroom setting where a teacher and children are engaged in early learning activities at a light table.

Lucy Brock Child Development Lab

Lucy Brock is a full-day, licensed early childhood program serving children from birth to age five, offering quality care and hands-on educator preparation.