Indian River State College

What you'll study

Program content varies by pathway:

• Associate in Arts: coursework to qualify as a teaching assistant and to prepare for transfer into a bachelor’s program or a Florida public university teacher-preparation program.
• B.S. in Elementary Education (online): coursework and multiple field experiences in Florida schools with an emphasis on literacy and English-for-speakers-of-other-languages (ESOL).
• B.S. in Exceptional Student Education (online): preparation to teach K–12 students with diverse learning needs, including literacy and ESOL focus; funding may be available for paraprofessionals through the Florida Department of Education.
• Educator Preparation Institute (EPI): professional education coursework (7 or 10 courses depending on SOE/subject), preparation for Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (General Knowledge, Professional Education, and Subject Area Examination), and a mentored practicum with a portfolio demonstrating the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices (FEAPs).
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement: four instructor-facilitated online courses offered across fall and spring semesters — EEX 4603 Positive Behavior Support, EEX 4232 Identification and Assessment of Students with Autism, EEX 4094 Educating Students with Autism, and EEX 4760 Assistive Technology for Students with Autism.

Entry requirements

Requirements depend on the pathway chosen:

• Associate in Arts: standard admission to IRSC for associate study (courses to qualify as a teaching assistant).
• Bachelor’s degrees: admission to the B.S. program as detailed by IRSC; programs include field experience placements in Florida schools.
• Educator Preparation Institute (EPI): a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, a Statement of Eligibility (SOE) indicating subject-area eligibility (which may require passing an FTCE Subject Area Exam), demonstration of professional dispositions, and availability for practicum. A Level 2 background screening will be required later for school/district placement.
• Autism Endorsement (nondegree baccalaureate-level): apply as a baccalaureate-level, nondegree-seeking student (program codes H0010 or H0020), submit a Florida Professional or Temporary Educator Certificate and college transcripts, and pay a one-time nonrefundable $30 application fee.

Career prospects

Graduates can work as teaching assistants, classroom teachers in elementary or K–12 special education settings, or pursue certification through the EPI to move from a temporary to a professional Florida teaching certificate. IRSC promotes strong local demand—especially in math, science, exceptional student education and bilingual education—and cites a 100% job placement rate for its B.S. in Education alumni.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

IRSC advertises dozens of scholarships available to education majors. Additionally, funding is noted for paraprofessionals or teacher’s assistants entering the B.S. in Exceptional Student Education through the Florida Department of Education. Applicants should consult IRSC financial aid resources for current opportunities and eligibility.