FEATURED PROGRAMS:
Master of Science in Special Education – Mild to Moderate Disabilities
Master of Science in Special Education- Severe Disabilities with an Emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Master of Science in Special Education – Mild to Moderate Disabilities
Candidates in this concentration of the MS in Special Education learn and apply specialized techniques to support students with disabilities within a range of educational settings. The program provides instruction and applied experiences in legal issues, psychoeducational assessment, data-based decision making, instructional programming, behavior management, and collaborative programming among general and special educators.
Two focus areas are available: elementary/middle school (grades 1–8) and secondary/adult levels (grades 6–12). All candidates complete two field experiences: the Graduate Student Project (with presentation) and the Internship Portfolio. Graduates are eligible for Maryland state certification in special education, which is reciprocated by many other states.
In addition, the program offers a Special Education Teacher Immersion Training cohort for current Montgomery County Schools paraeducators or long-term substitutes. With flexible enrollment options for full- or part-time study, the program can be completed in as little as six semesters, although eight is typical. Coursework must be completed within five years.
Master of Science in Special Education – Severe Disabilities with an Emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders
The 36-credit MS in Special Education, Severe Disabilities/Autism prepares certified teachers to work with individuals who require specialized instruction and intensive support in areas of independent living and adaptive behavior—including students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
This is a high-demand credential requiring rigorous preparation led by nationally recognized faculty. Our mission is to prepare exemplary special education professionals who can provide quality educational experiences and serve as positive agents of change within educational environments.
Candidates receive special training and coursework in classroom behavior management and complete an internship supervised by mentor teachers and faculty instructors.