This specialty provides an appropriate degree for mid-career special education professionals who are interested in meeting the leadership challenge of guiding, mentoring, and shaping special education programs to impact student achievement, one learner at a time, on the elementary, middle, or secondary levels. This particular specialty focuses on high performance research, practical models, and data-driven decision-making; candidates must be prepared to participate in practical experiences, teacher performance assessments, and results-oriented expectations and become fully immersed in the legal and ethical standards that govern special education programs. The MA is designed to further enhance cognitive, analytical, and reflective thinking skills through research into education theory, practice, and psychology. Additional technological applications and leadership opportunities are integrated throughout the program.
For those students in this program seeking certification, a specialized practicum appropriate for the licensure area and a portfolio with presentation are requirements of this program. (A minimum of three years of documented successful teaching with an educator license in special education is required.)
At least 36 credits is required for graduation: