Students with master's degrees in related fields may achieve principal certification with an education specialist degree. Persons seeking certification in these programs must also complete an administrative internship for two semesters. All certification and degree programs require comprehensive examinations. The education specialist degree is designed to prepare personnel in the consulting, supervisory, and administrative competencies needed for leadership roles in public school special education programs. The doctoral program prepares special educators for positions of leadership in schools, state agencies, colleges, and universities.
Major emphasis is placed on research, university level teaching, and systems change.
Teaching endorsements may be obtained in the areas of general special education, severe disabilities, early childhood special education, consulting teacher, and special education director. The minimum number of credits required for the degree is 128. 60-credit teaching major. Graduate Degree Programs Candidates must fulfill the requirements of the College of Graduate Studies and of the Division of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership. See the College of Graduate Studies section of part 4 for the general requirements applicable to each degree.