Special Education, Ed.S.

Program Description

The Education Specialist degree is a practitioner’s degree at the post-master’s level for those who seek advanced credentials but not a full doctoral degree with a dissertation requirement. The objective of the degree is to develop skills and competencies that will make a student a more effective leader in the field of Special Education. The Ed.S. in Special Education degree is designed for individuals with a master’s degree who will wish to advance their special education knowledge and skills. This degree is not designed for licensure.

Program Outcomes

1. Design and modify general and specialized curricula to increase access and meet the diverse learning needs and developmental growth of students with exceptionalities.
2. Analyze, synthesize, and apply seminal and current research, pedagogical principles, and assistive technology to support the use of best practices in the special education classroom.
3. Examine, design, and implement appropriate assessments to minimize bias, support individual student needs, and utilize results for instructional and placement decisions.
4. Construct models to support positive collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders to improve programs, services, and outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities and their families. 
5. Develop strategies to support professional development, leadership, and advocacy efforts in special education. 
6. Examine current trends, laws, and policy in special education and the role that they play in safeguarding the rights of students with exceptionalities. 
7. Demonstrate understanding of cultural, social, and economic diversity and individual learner differences to inform the creation of an inclusive learning environment where all students feel respected and valued and have the resources and support necessary to reach their fullest potential.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Ed.S. in Special Education is to provide a practitioner’s degree to support leaders in special education. Students gain skills that support students support individuals with special needs and best practices in field. Graduates will be able to apply the research-based practices honed during the program to improve academic, social and transition outcomes for their students with disabilities.