OVERVIEW
The Special Education Program prepares graduates to be professional educators and leaders in the field of special education for candidates with disabilities in the licensure areas of general curriculum and adapted curriculum in special education, behavioral-emotional disabilities, and learning disabilities. The mission of the Special Education Program is to prepare teachers to effectively teach and nurture candidates with special needs, to address issues of language and cultural diversity, and to collaborate with parents, other professionals, and candidates in the delivery of evidence based educational programs.
The Master of Arts in Teaching is a 39-54 hour program for candidates who have a background in education, but do not have a license in special education. The program provides candidates with initial license competencies in knowledge of special populations, adapting curriculum, assessing candidates, writing IEPs and instructional methodology. After completion of the basic courses, candidates take courses in applied research, leadership and technology with advanced study of current research and policy in special education. Candidates with limited or no background in education will need up to 15 hours of prerequisites prior to being fully admitted to the MAT program. Candidates receive an initial license in Special Education General Curriculum and an advanced license in their specialty area. Candidates may concentrate in Behavioral/Emotional Disabilities or Learning Disabilities.
Licensure Only Programs
Licensure Only programs are available in Special Education: General Curriculum and Special Education: Adapted Curriculum. Candidates with undergraduate degrees may apply for a Licensure Only Program in Special Education: General Curriculum or Special Education: Adapted Curriculum through the Graduate Admissions Office. Students seeking Licensure Only in Special Education: Adapted Curriculum should contact the Program Coordinator for details.
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