Ann P. Blackwell, Ph.D., Dean
Mission
The College of Education and Psychology prepares and develops educators, researchers, mental health professionals, and information specialists while generating and disseminating knowledge that connects and advances individuals, communities, and society. Students develop knowledge and skills through exposure to exemplary teaching, research, and professional service. The College contributes to the mission of the University through all aspects of scholarship that promote academic success; enhance the image of the College and the University; foster community relationships and involvement; and create healthy minds, bodies, and campuses.
Department of Child and Family Studies
Pat Sims, Ph.D., Chair
118 College Drive #5035
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
(601) 266-4679
Master of Science in Child and Family Studies
The Master of Science degree in Child and Family Studies is a thirty-seven (37) hour, fully online program designed for students interested in the integration of theory, research and experiential learning. It builds on a foundation in family systems theory and emphasizes leadership, critical thinking skills, and the connection between research and practice. Students aquire the knowledge and skills necessary to promote quality of life and serve as effective advocates for children and families.
Special Program Requirements
Students seeking admission to this degree program must meet all the requirements of the department (GPA, GRE scores, three letters of recommendation), as well as submit a letter of intent containing a clear statement of professional goals.
Department of Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education
Mary Ariail, Ph.D., Chair
118 College Drive #5057
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
(601) 266-5955
M.Ed. in Special Education
The M.Ed. in Special Education is a 33 hour program including a 15 hour core, 15 hours of special education elective coursework, and a 3 hour practicum. Candidates may complete elective sequences which lead to Mississippi licensure in Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Emotional/Behavior Disorders, Severe Disabilities, or Gifted Education.
The Department of Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education offers several options to the student for a Master of Education degree program. This program is open to teachers who have already obtained licensure.
Teachers who have gained special education licensure through alternative routes will be required to take a program of at least thirty-six (36) hours and may need to take additional courses to fulfill deficiencies. Licensure resulting from the master’s degree is the responsibility of the student obtaining the degree. Clarification of licensure outcomes should be confirmed prior to beginning the program.
For students who are presently certified in MIssissippi at the bachelor’s level in special education, not by alternative route or add-on licensure: The student must provide evidence that the following prerequisites have been successfully completed: SPE 400 or equivalent coursework and appropriate professional experience with students with exceptionalities.
Department of Educational Research and Administration
Lilian H. Hill, Ph.D., Co-Chair
Thomas J. Lipscomb, Ph.D., Co-Chair
118 College Drive #5027
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
(601) 266-4621
Master’s Degree
Master’s, Specialist’s, and Doctoral Coursework
Website: http://www.usm.edu/era
228.214.3274 (Gulf Coast) or 601.266.4580 (Hattiesburg)
The Department of Educational Research and Administration offers a fully online Master’s in Educational Administration and Supervision degree that provides entry-level preparation in the school principalship. The department also provides coursework that can lead to other graduate degrees offered through the department in collaboration with the Hattiesburg Campus. All programs are NCATE accredited and may lead to licensure. Students interested in initial licensure or licensure renewal should consult with their state’s department of education for current licesure requirements.
Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision (totally online) This program prepares teachers to become school principals. Cohorts of up to 25 students are admitted each spring through a competitive admissions process. The 34 credit-hour program spans 4 consecutive semesters (spring, summer, fall, and spring) and includes a 3-semester internship.
Other Graduate Degrees are offered by the department in collaboration with the Hattiesburg campus. A significant portion of coursework for these programs is offered on the Gulf Coast and/or online.
The following degrees prepares individuals for the principalship, central office administration, and the superintendency. Applications are considered each semester through a competitive application process.
Education Specialists - Educational Administration (P12) Emphasis
Doctor of Education in Education - Educational Administration (P12) Emphasis
Doctor of Philosophy in Education - Educational Administration (P12) Emphasis
School of Library and Information Science
Teresa Welsh, Ph.D., Director
118 College Drive #5146
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-5146
(601) 266-4228
The School of Library and Information Science offers a course of study leading to a Master of Library and Information Science degree. Since the first master’s degree in library science was awarded in 1965, the program has continued to grow and develop into a comprehensive instructional program for all students who plan to become information professionals. The program prepares professional librarians in public, school, academic, or special libraries as well as other information environments. For the general university graduate student, the school offers a variety of courses for acquiring skills in the use of library and other information resources as research tools. Finally, the school performs a vital role in the continuing development and expansion of library services at all levels in the state of Mississippi as well as providing continuing education for state practicing librarians. Currently, our courses are delivered online with required real-time chats.
Candidates for the Master of Library and Information Science (M.L.I.S.) degree must earn a minimum of forty (40) semester hours of credit with a 3.0 cumulative GPA. Eighteen (18) of these hours must be at the 600 level of courses. As many as six (6) hours may be selected from the offerings of other departments within the university with approval of the director. A total of no more than six (6) semester hours of transfer work may be applied toward the degree. A total of no more than nine (9) semester hours of combined transfer work and nondegree work may be applied toward the degree. Students must pass a comprehensive exam and complete a master’s proposal and project (LIS 695) and have a 3.0 GPA with no more than one “C” or lower to graduate. Some specified courses cannot have less than a “B”. The program of study for students will be individualized, taking into consideration previous academic backgrounds, experience, and career objectives. All programs of study must be planned with the counsel of a faculty advisor and approved by the director of the School of Library and Information Science.
