Early Childhood Special Education, MSEd

Program Description

The Accelerated Master of Science in Education - Early Childhood Special Education is designed for students pursuing either a Special Education or Early Childhood Education undergraduate degree who want certification in Early Childhood Special Education. This degree will prepare candidates to serve eligible young children and their families through a model of collaboration with educators, related service personnel, health care workers and other community-based service providers. Successful candidates will be able to provide special education services in infant/toddler, preschool, or primary settings up to third grade

Admission Requirements for the Accelerated Master

1. Junior status with a G.P.A. of 3.0 or better;
2. Admission to Teacher Education;
3. For early childhood education students, completion of CFD 260 (Observing, Assessing, & Implementing Activities for Young Children);
4. For special education students, completion of SPE 345 (Educational Evaluation of Exceptional Students) and SPE 346 (Educational Evaluation of Exceptional Students Lab);
5. Acceptance of the applicant by the graduate faculty of both the Special Education and Early Childhood Education under the accelerated master’s option.

Program Admission Procedure

In addition to the submission of the Graduate Application for Admission and application fee, the candidate must also submit the following materials.

1. A letter of intent containing professional goals, future plans, background information, and professional experiences.
2. Submission of two letters of recommendation from professionals familiar with the candidate’s academic abilities and potential.
3. Completion of any required prerequisite courses or permission from the Graduate Director.

• Students may transfer in no more than 6 credit hours that must be approved by the Graduate Director.
• Students must complete a Program of Study with their advisor prior to completing 15 credit hours. Students and their advisor should monitor the online Degree Audit to ensure appropriate progress .

If accepted to the accelerated master’s program, up to 12 hours of course work may apply to both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Mixed credit coursework varies by the undergraduate program.