The University of Connecticut's undergraduate special education program, which uses the prescriptive teaching approach to train special education teachers, is described. Student support services that help "high risk" candidates succeed in a demanding program are outlined. Program elements and evaluation criteria that provide students with the skills needed to be competent professionals are presented. A particular focus is on program components which prepare graduates for the stressful realities facing special educators in the 1980's. Finally, efforts in the area of student evaluation are considered. (Author/SW)