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Master of Arts (M.A.) in Education – Special Education

About the Program

The Johnson State College Master's of Arts in Education – Special Education is designed for licensed teachers seeking to earn an endorsement in special education.

 

Based on a characteristics approach that focuses on students with both low/high incidence disabilities, this program of study provides students with philosophical, theoretical, and practical models of current special education policies and procedures. 

 

The program also emphasizes hands-on internship experiences to provide opportunities for students to implement their learning in authentic settings and to further solidify the connection between research and practice.

 

Upon completion, candidates will be endorsed to teach in special education placements in grades K-12.

 

Students will specifically develop skills to:

 

Understand the diverse characteristics of students with disabilities.

Assess students strengths and needs to develop and evaluate an individualized plan of study.

Create lessons plans utilizing the principles of the Universal Design for Learning and other research-based methods.

Conduct a functional behavioral assessment to assist in meeting the behavioral needs of students.

Collaborate and consult with other professionals to provide a wrap-around approach to care.

Identify the impact of culture and diversity on the identification and education of students with disabilities.

Advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.

 

One-Year Program Option

The JSC Special Education Program provides an opportunity for students to finish their master's degree in one year. This requires a strong commitment to rigorous study and should only be considered by students who can dedicate their time to this effort. Students also will have the option to complete the program in two years or develop a plan for completion approved by the program coordinator. We highly recommend that students with full-time jobs consider the part-time program.

 

Portfolio Development

All students will be required to assemble a comprehensive portfolio throughout the program. Each portfolio entry will be aligned with the Vermont Special Education Teacher Competencies and will be assigned in individual classes throughout the program. Submission of a final portfolio is a requirement for completion of the master's degree.

 

Action Research Project 

As a final project, for completion of the Master's Degree in Special Education program, students will be responsible for submitting a paper and developing a presentation on a relevant action research project conducted throughout the program. The project will be planned and approved in the first semester research course. Students will be required to submit a professional paper and give a presentation of their findings.