Special Education MEd

Overview

The Master of Education in Special Education is a 30-hour fully online program that provides advanced study in educating students with exceptionalities. This program is for current teachers and individuals who would like to enter the teaching profession. All students build or enhance a strong foundation in educating students with high incidence disabilities. Students are also able to select an area of emphasis that prepares them to work with students who have behavior disorders, gifts and/or talents, or severe disabilities. The program includes experiences working with K-12 students.

This program of study meets Mississippi’s state standards for advanced licensure. Students who intend to seek licensure in another state should verify that this program of study meets the desired state’s licensure requirements. For additional information on professional licensure, see the Professional Licensure page https://www.usm.edu/professional-licensure-certification-disclosures/index.php

Campus: Online 100%

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in Academic Requirements and Procedures , applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Official scores from one of the following standardized exams - Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Praxis II Subject Assessment Examination.
2. Letters of Recommendation - Three (3) letters of recommendation from professionals in the field of education who are qualified to assess the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
3. Statement of Purpose - In a letter or essay format, describe your professional experiences and goals and how obtaining this degree will help you to realize those goals.
4. Writing Sample
5. CV/Résumé
6. Copy of current educator license, if applicable.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

In addition to the requirements detailed in General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information , students who are seeking initial licensure or who have gained special education licensure through alternative routes may be required to complete additional courses to satisfy program prerequisite deficiencies. Students without a current educator license will be required to take SPE 500.

Course Requirements (30 hours)

• CIR 705 - Components of the Reading and Writing Process 3 hrs.
• SPE 641 - Transition Programming: School to Adult Life 3 hrs.
• SPE 709 - Assessment of Individuals with Exceptionalities 3 hrs.
• SPE 770 - Legal Issues in Educating Exceptional Learners 3 hrs.