Master of Arts [M.A] [Special Education] From Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Program Options

Saint Mary?s offers several program options within the master?s programs in special education. Options are available for licensed educators, those seeking an initial teaching license, and those wishing to obtain a master's degree without preparing for licensure.

What You'll Gain

Upon completion of the M.A. in Special Education program, graduates are expected to be able to do the following:

• Interpret the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and history of special education within the context of birth to 21 regular education settings
• Manage the use of effective ethical and legal practices to lead the special education team through special education processes
• Develop, design, and implement effective individualized programs for students with disabilities using appropriate instructional strategies
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with families and professionals
• Apply the standards of effective practice in teaching special needs students at primary, intermediate, and high school levels across a range of service delivery models
• Analyze current research and apply it to special education curriculum and instruction
• Develop leadership skills to guide and direct services for the special education needs of students
• Utilize knowledge of disabilities and other conditions to integrate strategies applicable for students, including those with co-existing disabilities
• Recognize and plan for personal and professional growth and development
• Deliver professional education services in a nondiscriminatory manner with sensitivity to diversity

FOR STUDENTS WITH A TEACHING LICENSE WISHING TO TEACH SPECIAL ED OR ADD ADDITIONAL LICENSE

If you already hold a general subject classroom teaching license or licensure as an Academic and Behavioral Strategist (ABS) you can add an additional license in LD, EBD, and/or?ASD. Courses may be taken either entirely?online?or at the?Twin Cities?Campus.

Field Experience and Student Teaching

Licensure preparation includes a variety of requirements in addition to coursework, including field experience and student teaching. It is critical for you to be able to put theory into practice. Your time in the program includes field experience and student teaching, which ensure that you have practiced your skills under the guidance of a cooperating teacher and university supervisor.?