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Master of Science in Special Education
This program is an advanced degree with a strong research focus. This degree may be applied toward the Instructional II certification.
Many M.S. graduates continue to pursue doctoral degrees. Students without special education backgrounds can make up deficiency courses if they desire teaching certification. The M.S. includes 6 credits of thesis-related course work in lieu of the practicum required in the M.Ed. program, a written comprehensive exam, and a thesis.
Admission requirements
You may begin in September, January, May, or June at the start of each session. During the academic year – September through April – we offer classes in a 14-week format, 1 evening a week or a half-day on Saturdays. Seven-week sessions are offered in the summer.
Application Requirements for Degree and Nondegree Admission
For admission to the Graduate School, applicants must hold either a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution.
For degree admission consideration, applicants must:
- Have a minimum junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0);
- Submit all necessary forms, documentation, and fees;
- Take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) as part of the application process.
- For more information on how to apply, click here.
Degree requirements
Students will take 30 credits of course work (18 credits must be taken at the 500 level to graduate).
Note: Students will need to see the special education academic adviser to design a plan of study before registering in the program.