What Our Graduates Say
"I had the opportunity to work with both university and community professionals in holistic learning environments. My mentors challenged me to pursue my research interests, and now support me in my goals to become both a leader in the field of education and as an advocate for children and families." Winnie Looby
Licensure or Endorsement Pathway
Successful candidates complete their program with a Master's Degree (M.Ed.) in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), leading to professional teaching licensure or added endorsement (birth through age six). If you are interested in our K through age 21 program, please visit our Special Education (M.Ed.) website.
Non-Licensure Pathway
If you are not seeking an initial license or added endorsement, you can pursue an individually-designed program leading toward a master's degree in special education suited to your career goals and personal interests.
Community-Based Learning in Inclusive Settings
Field-based experiences enable our students to put theory into practice within supportive, high-quality environments that value inclusion. Student teaching internships with our community partners provide the opportunities to work with young children and families who are experiencing disability, fully supported by dedicated faculty and local professionals who serve as mentor teachers.
Evidence-Based Practice
Scholars leave our program with the skills needed to access research-based evidence and to judge its value to serve children and families with diverse needs. Our professors have extensive experience in special education, both in practice and in research. Faculty research contributes to the identification and use of evidence-based practices in special education and informs our curriculum and teaching methods. We also have opportunities for students to get involved with exciting research projects.