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Master's in Special Education

Program Overview

The Master of Arts degree in Special Education provides the professional educator with advanced knowledge and skills in special education. This degree has many requirements in common with the Education Specialist Clear/Induction Credentials in Special Education and may be earned concurrently with those credentials. Although the M.A. degree is usually linked to a teaching credential, it is open to individuals with undergraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines in consultation with the graduate adviser.

Concentrations

The M.A. degree can include concentrations in the following areas: behavior analysis and autism, early childhood, mild/moderate support needs, and extensive support needs. All programs must be approved by the graduate adviser.

Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration

Offering in-depth study of issues related to individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Early Childhood Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with infant, toddler and preschool-age children with exceptionalities and their families.

Mild to Moderate Support Needs Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with students with disabilities in grades K-12, and adults up to age 22.

Extensive Support Needs Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with students with a wide range of disabilities in grades K-12, and adults up to age 22.

Coursework

To receive the Master of Arts in Special Education, students must complete 30 units. Courses common to all concentrations are ED 690, SPED 681 A or B, SPED 527, SPED 530 and Plan A, which requires Education 799A, or Plan B, in which three options are available, Education 791A (3 units) and 791B (1 unit); or Education 791A (3 units) and 791B (3 units); or Education 795A (3 units) and 795B (3 units). All candidates for the Master of Arts degree in education who elect Plan B must pass a comprehensive examination.

Consult the graduate advisor about potential credit for other 500-700 level courses you have taken.

Historical and philosophical perspectives of cultural pluralism in special education and programs related to diverse students with disabilities. Research on curricular approaches and instructional needs. Sociocultural aspects related to disability, race, ethnicity, gender, and language.
Definition, etiology, assessment, and instructional practices used to address autism. Historical and current issues. 

SPED 681A. Advanced Studies in Special Education: Mild/Moderate Support Needs (3 units)

SPED 681B. Advanced Studies in Special Education: Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Extensive Support Needs (3 units)

Educational legislation, theories, philosophies, research findings, issues and trends in area of exceptionality. Application of research to solution of educational problems.

Procedures for gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing information; reviewing the literature; designing studies. Section selection to be made with department graduate adviser. 
An intensive study in selected areas of education culminating in a written project. Limited to students following Plan B for the Master of Arts degree in education. 
An intensive study in selected areas of education culminating in a written project. Limited to students following Plan B for the Master of Arts degree in education. 

Degree Learning Outcomes

  1. Apply social justice and equity frameworks to the understanding of special education services and systems that support individuals and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
  2. Explore quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and apply relevant methods to design and implement an action research project designed to address impactful questions in the field of special education.
  3. Identify, summarize and synthesize relevant research literature on current practices in special education using a professional writing style.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding and application of evidence-based practices that improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families.
  5. Articulate an intersectional professional identity through written and oral expression that incorporates leadership, and conduct consistent with professional standards, ethical practices, and advocacy.

Curriculum Alignment Matrix

  DLO 1 DLO 2 DLO 3 DLO 4 DLO 5
SPED 527 X        
SPED 530       X  
SPED 681 A or B     X    
ED 690   X      
ED 795 A   X     X
ED 795 B   X      

Assessment Plan

DLO 1: Cumulative evaluation of SPED 527 (Four Book reaction papers, Cultural heritage paper & Presentation, Implicit association test (IAT)& reaction, Cumulative final exam)

DLO 2: Research proposal and final exam in ED690; Cumulative research project in SPED 795A & B

DLO 3: Literature review in SPED 681A or B

DLO 4: Cumulative evaluation of SPED 530 ( Research to Practice assignment focused on Evidence-based practices for autistic individuals, which includes literature review, implementation and observation, and reflection of evidence-based practice).

DLO 5: Cumulative research project in SPED 795A & B & Comprehensive exam in ED 795A

Advising

Dr. Yasemin Turan, Graduate Adviser
[email protected], 619-594-4318