Special Education

Master of Arts Degree (M.A.) in Various Concentrations

 

The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Special Education provides opportunities to build knowledge of research methodology and outcomes, synthesize and discuss critical concepts in the field, and apply content through practical application. The program is designed to support both credentialed Education Specialists, and others with a strong interest and experience in special education services. 

Program requirements include an undergraduate degree (GPA of 3.0 or above) and demonstrated experience and commitment to the field of special education. 

For educators with a California Education Specialist Preliminary Credential, coursework for the Education Specialist Clear/Induction Credentials in Special Education, may be completed concurrently with the M.A. in Special Education coursework. 

Concentrations

The M.A. in Special Education degree has four concentration areas: 

  • Behavior Analysis and Autism
  • Early Childhood
  • Extensive Support Needs
  • Mild/Moderate Support Needs

Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration

The M.A. in Special Education with a Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration meets the behavior-analytic coursework requirements for those pursuing the BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) Pathway 2 eligibility route.

Early Childhood Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with infant, toddler, and PK-K children with exceptionalities and their families.

Extensive Support Needs Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with students with a wide range of disabilities in grades K-12, and adults up to age 22. 

Mild to Moderate Support Needs Concentration

Preparing educators and other professionals to work with students with disabilities in grades K-12, and adults up to age 22. 

Coursework

To receive the Master of Arts in Special Education, students must complete 30-31 units. Courses common to all concentrations are ED 690, SPED 681 A or B, SPED 527, SPED 530, Education ED 799A and SPED 685 (Plan A option), or 795A and 795B (Plan B option).

Procedures for gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing information; reviewing the literature; designing studies. Section selection to be made with department graduate adviser. 

SPED 681A. Advanced Studies in Special Education: Mild/Moderate Support Needs (3 units)

SPED 681B. Advanced Studies in Special Education: Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Extensive Support Needs (3 units)

Educational legislation, theories, philosophies, research findings, issues and trends in area of exceptionality. Application of research to solution of educational problems.

Historical and philosophical perspectives of cultural pluralism in special education and programs related to diverse students with disabilities. Research on curricular approaches and instructional needs. Sociocultural aspects related to disability, race, ethnicity, gender, and language.

Definition, etiology, assessment, and instructional practices used to affirm and support autistic individuals and their families. 

Program Plans

Matriculated students will receive a program of study including Plan B, the seminar plan. Requests for transfer to Plan A must be prepared as an official change in the program for the master’s degree, countersigned by the faculty adviser, and submitted to the Office of Graduate Programs in the College of Education.

Preparation of a project or thesis for the master’s degree.

Single-case research designs focused on interventions with individuals with disabilities.

An intensive study in selected areas of education culminating in a written project. Limited to students following Plan B for the Master of Arts degree in education. 

An intensive study in selected areas of education culminating in a written project. Limited to students following Plan B for the Master of Arts degree in education. 

Degree Learning Outcomes (DLO)

  1. Apply social justice and equity frameworks to the understanding of special education services and systems that support individuals and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

  2. Explore quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and apply relevant methods to design and implement an action research project designed to address impactful questions in the field of special education.

  3. Identify, summarize and synthesize relevant research literature on current practices in special education using a professional writing style.

  4. Demonstrate an understanding and application of evidence-based practices that improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families.

  5. Articulate an intersectional professional identity through written and oral expression that incorporates leadership, and conduct consistent with professional standards, ethical practices, and advocacy.

Assessment Plan

Cumulative evaluation of SPED 527 (Four Book reaction papers, Cultural heritage paper & Presentation, Implicit association test (IAT) & reaction, Cumulative final exam)

  1. Research proposal and final exam in ED690
  2. Cumulative research project in SPED 795A & B (Plan B) or ED 799A and SPED 685 (Plan A)

Literature review in SPED 681A or B

Cumulative evaluation of SPED 530 ( Research to Practice assignment focused on Evidence-based practices for autistic individuals, which includes literature review, implementation and observation, and reflection of evidence-based practice).

  1. Cumulative research project in SPED 795A & B (Plan B) or ED 799A and SPED 685 (Plan A)
  2. Comprehensive Exam is taken in 2nd Fall

Admissions

The M.A. in Special Education accepts applications for Fall admission only.

Requirements

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation

For application due dates, instructions, and a full list of required program-specific documents, visit:

How to Apply

Advising

 
Jessica Suhrheinrich

Jessica Suhrheinrich

[email protected]

SDSU Resources for Future Students

This program is offered through the

Department of Child and Family Development