Program Overview
The Special Education M.Ed. without Certification program prepares certified teachers for higher level administrative and leadership positions within the special education field. Scholars will balance course work in research and practice which aids in policy development/understanding as well as instructional design. Graduates of this program will be able to use their newfound skills in schools as well as organizations that serve learners with diverse needs. The M.Ed. centers on coursework in the Department of Special Education, but can be fulfilled by taking classes across the College of Education, allowing students to select electives that will support their interests and expand on the core degree requirements. Students have up to five years (with consistent enrollment excluding summers) to complete their degree, which allows for flexibility.
In the State of Maryland, teachers who already possess an initial certification in a general education area can take the Special Education PRAXIS II test 0354/5354 (htpp://www.ets.org) to obtain special education certification through the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Certification and Accreditation. For more information, visit MSDE’s website.
Learning Goals
Learning Goals
- Increase knowledge and understanding of application of evidenced-based practices (EBP) for students with disabilities in a variety of K-12 educational settings
- Refine and deepen research method skills and proficiencies in quantitative, qualitative, and/or single subject study design
- Apply reflective, critical thinking, and observation skills, and communicate findings, questions, and next steps clearly
- Determine appropriate inclusive, tiered, or intervention disability instruction in educational settings
- Broaden the range and strengthen the depth of understanding in a self-selected area of interest, including but not limited to law and policy, instruction, curriculum, intervention, high or low incidence disabilities, EBP, etc.
How to Apply
How to Apply
Information on admissions and application to this program can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website and program handbook.
Admission Requirements Guide to ApplyingEDSP Program Handbook
Requirements
Program Requirements
This program is 30 credits total, 6 of which can be transfer credits.
The following coursework is required:
- Two of the following research methods courses (6 credits):
- EDMS 645 Quantitative Research Methods I
- EDSP 670 Single Subject Research in Special Education
- EDSP 671 Qualitative Methodologies in Special Education
- One of the following (3 credits):
- EDSP 673 Evaluating Evidence-Based Practices in Special Education
- EDSP 625 Seminar on Severe Disabilities
- One of the following (3 credits):
- EDSP 600 Issues and Trends in Educating Individuals with Disabilities
- EDSP 675 Legal and Policy Foundations for Individuals with Disabilities
Careers
Career Options
Students who complete this degree use their learning in many ways: they continue in their teaching careers and apply what they have learned, pursue new paths in their schools, apply for doctoral programs, and switch areas of focus in K-12 settings.
Contact
Contact
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