Special Education (MA)

The master of arts (MA) in special education provides practicing educators, related professionals and other qualified individuals opportunities to study and research special education practices and services. Current issues and emerging trends are explored on a global level, with a strong focus on social justice and ethical themes at the local, national andor international level.The program emphasizes developmentally oriented theory and research in the areas of cognitive and socio-emotional development, and students are expected to use this knowledge to design and promote evidence-based interventions and instructional practices to enhance pupil learning. Candidates explore opportunities for collaboration and advocacy within their educational settings that are designed to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities in general. The program recognizes the rapidly changing dimensions of special education and promotes the philosophy of integrated and inclusive learning experiences for all children and youth.The program offers students opportunities to either seek a specialized approach for all types of exceptional learners or a concentrated learning experience by specializing in unique areas of study based on a specific population of exceptional learners. The emphasis areas are designed to provide flexibility within a structured sequence of coursework. Students may choose to complete specialized approaches for exceptional learners or concentrate in applied behavior analysis, mildmoderate disabilities. or specialized approaches to exceptional learners.The master of arts in special education program does not lead to initial teacher certification in special education. For more information about initial teacher certification in special education (mildmoderate disabilities), please refer to the Teacher Certification section under the MAT with an emphasis in special education section of this catalog.