Exceptional Student Education, M.A.

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College of Education
Department: Language, Literacy, Ed.D., Exceptional Education, and Physical Education

Major Contacts, Deadlines, and Delivery Information

This major shares core requirements with the Exceptional Student Education (ESOL and Reading Endorsements), M.A.T.

The Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education provides an in-depth view of research, theories, and the application of theory to classroom teaching in Exceptional Student Education (ESE). The major prepares Special Education teacher leaders for work in public and private schools and in-state, federal, or community settings. The major is designed to ensure that all graduates are prepared to be reflective practitioners, able to evaluate and continuously learn from their own teaching; collaborative professionals who affirm diversity; knowledgeable of theory and research; and skilled in the best practices of Special Education. Graduates of this major will have advanced clinical and pedagogical skills in working with children with disabilities and their families. The major is structured so that students can maintain full-time employment while pursuing their degrees through on-line course delivery.

Admission Information

Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major, listed below.

A letter of application that addresses why the candidate desires to pursue an M.A. degree in education.

Curriculum Requirements

Total Minimum hours: 30 Credit Hours

Shared Core – 6 Credit Hours
Additional Required Courses - 24 Credit Hours

Shared Core Requirements (6 Credit Hours)

EEX 6248 Instructional Approaches for Exceptional Populations Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6943 Practicum in Exceptional Student Education Credit Hours: 1-4 (3 Credit hours required for this program: 1 hour fall / 2 hours spring)*
*An Action Research project is required to fulfill the comprehensive examination requirement and is completed while enrolled in EEX 6943 Practicum in Exceptional Student Education (3 Credit Hours)

Additional Required Courses (24 Credit Hours)

EEX 6612 Management and Motivation of Exceptional and At-Risk Students Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6222 Advanced Psychoeducational Assessment of Exceptional Students Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6245 Transitional Programming for the Adolescent and Young Adult Exceptional Student Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6732 Consultation and Collaboration in Special Education Credit Hours: 3
EEX 5752 Working with Families: A Pluralistic Perspective Credit Hours: 3
EDF 6481 Foundations of Educational Research Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6939 Advanced Seminar: Paradigms, Practices, and Policies in Special Education Credit Hours: 3
Select from one of the following Varying Exceptionalities (3 Credit Hours)
EBD 6215 Advanced Theories and Practices in Emotional Handicaps Credit Hours: 3
ELD 6015 Advanced Theories and Practices in Specific Learning Disabilities Credit Hours: 3
EEX 6476 Curriculum and Instruction for Students with Low Incidence Disabilities Credit Hours: 3

Comprehensive Examination

An Action Research project is required to fulfill the comprehensive examination requirement and is completed in EEX 6943 Practicum in Exceptional Student Education .