Nov 23, 2024  
Graduate School Course Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Graduate School Course Catalog 2024-2025

Teaching, M.A.T.


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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, visual impaired, 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 36-53 hour program for candidates who , 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 receive an initial license in Special Education General Curriculum . Candidates in general or adapted curriculum may have focus areas  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. 

I. Admission Requirements


  1. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized or accredited institution; A minimum 2.5 GPA overall at the undergraduate level. Prospective candidates with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.749 must earn a minimum grade point average of 2.75 or a 3.0 average for the last four semesters of study for the bachelor’s degree;
  2. Two letters of recommendation submitted by persons who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s teaching or work experience, who have worked in a supervisory role with the applicant, and who have direct knowledge of the applicant’s teaching skills;
  3. An interview with special education faculty;
  4. A writing sample indicating the applicant’s ability to write in a clear, concise, and professional manner; Official transcripts of all previous degrees.

II. Program Requirements


Total credits for each specialty area - 42-57 hours


III. Exit Requirements


  1. Completion of courses on the student’s plan of study.
  2. Candidate must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above and no more than one C during their program
  3. Successful presentation and defense completion of the e-portfolio.
  4. Successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

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