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 general and specialized curricula to increase access and meet the learning needs and developmental growth of students with exceptionalities. (AO3)
2. Analyze seminal and current research, pedagogical principles, and assistive technology to support the use of best practices in the special education classroom. (AO1)
3. Design assessments that minimize bias, support individual student needs, and utilize results for instructional and placement decisions. (AO3)
4. Construct models to support positive collaborative relationships with stakeholders to improve programs, services, and outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities and their families. (AO2)
5. Examine current trends, technologies, laws, and policies in special education and the role that they play in safeguarding the rights of students with exceptionalities. (AO4)
6. Implement an inclusive learning environment that uses responsive pedagogical approaches to effectively support learners in reaching their full potential. (A03)
7. Demonstrate growth as a professional and leader in special education by applying emerging instructional technologies, engaging in research, and contributing to innovative practices that promote education and support learners. (AO5)
8. Apply, analyze, and promote best practices in leadership. (AO5)
9. Demonstrate competence in the application of multiple research methods. (AO1)

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.