Master of Arts degree programs include specialization in Behavior Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Interrelated and Intellectual Disabilities. The Specialist in Education degree with concentration in Interrelated, is also offered. Endorsements are offered in several program areas. The primary objective of the Master of Arts degree in Special Education is to prepare education personnel to work with children and youth with disabilities. Emphasis is on developing specific competencies in teaching exceptional children as well as assimilating and communicating information about various exceptionalities.
Personnel are prepared for several types of programs and organizations.
The Specialist in Education degree is planned in conjunction with previous master's degree work to increase specialized skills. The Specialist Program is designed to prepare students to fulfill roles requiring higher professional competencies. Leadership personnel are prepared to work effectively with other professionals and parents to facilitate the provision of educational services to exceptional children and youth. The coursework, practicum, and internship experience focus on behavioral problem diagnosis, planning and implementing behavior modification programs, and remediation of learning deficits. The Master's Program in Learning Disabilities prepares teaching specialists to work with children who have special learning disabilities.