| Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prerequisite: | ||
| EDUU 511 |
Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling for current special education credential (not required for students in the Teaching and Learning program) |
3 |
| Core (18 credits) | ||
| EDUU 600 | Research and Evaluation Methods |
3 |
| EDUU 630 | Leadership and Policy in Special Education |
3 |
| EDUU 631 | Program Development and Organization in Special Education |
3 |
| EDUU 632 | Advanced Assessment and Program Evaluation in Special Education |
3 |
| EDUU 661 | Collaboration in Special Education |
3 |
| EDUU 633 | Special Education Capstone |
3 |
| Emphasis Area Elective Courses |
12-21 |
|
| When applying, students must select one emphasis area from the options below. |
|
|
| Total Credits |
33-42 |
|
MA in Special Education, Autism
Prepare to address the instructional and assessment needs for students identified with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a flexible program designed for working adults.
Meet the Varied Needs of Students Across the Autism Spectrum
Explore the etiologies and characteristics of autism disorders to gain a better understanding of students and their needs. With a special education master’s degree in autism, you’ll study the neurobiological and cognitive issues people with autism disorders experience as well as assessment strategies for success so you can become more effective in the classroom.
As an autism master's degree student, you will:
- Implement evidence-based instructional and behavioral strategies to meet the varied needs of students across the autism spectrum.
- Advocate for policy and curriculum development by utilizing special education history, pedagogy and latest research.
- Apply content and professional knowledge to enhance instructional programs and curricula.
- Evaluate current best practices for instruction and assessment using evidence-based educational research.
- Evaluate and analyze student achievement and program effectiveness utilizing nonbiased instruments and knowledge of research-based practices.
- Participate in and provide opportunities for professional development that support children with special needs, their families, schools and communities.
- Implement culturally responsive and collaborative consultation for students to enhance the opportunities for those with exceptional learning needs.
Next Session
Fall II (Oct 21, 2024)
Estimated Tuition
$730/Credit
Help me estimate my costWays to Learn
Online
Discover Affordable Education
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University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
What can you do with Special Education: Autism
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Data source: Lightcast™ 2022 www.lightcast.io
The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.
1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program
Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself.
Leonard W.
MA in Special Education, Behavior Analysis
MA in Special Education, Behavior Analysis
I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education. I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.
Amy J.
MA, Special Education
MA, Special Education
Admission Requirements
Applicants for the master’s degree in special education, must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:
- Completed application
- 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
- Hold a current special education teaching credential or take EDUU 511 Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling
- Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted
Transcripts
Only credits from regionally accredited institutions may be accepted in transfer. Failure to report any previous academic work at another college or university may be considered a violation of academic integrity.
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MASTER'S DEGREE IN SPECIAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS? Request more information>
Master of Arts in Special Education Program Curriculum
-
-
Candidates who complete this emphasis area and have an appropriate credential may be eligible to be recommended for the authorization prior to the completion of their degree. See an advisor for more information.
Course List Code Course Name Credits EDUU 575 Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders: Etiologies and Characteristics 3
EDUU 675 Assessing Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders 3
EDUU 676 Autism Spectrum Disorders: Programming and Strategies, I 3
EDUU 677 Autism Spectrum Disorders: Programming and Strategies, II 3
Total Credits 12
Become the Teacher Who Inspired You
Have questions about enrollment, degree programs or financial aid? A UMass Global enrollment coach can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about special education and strategies that can prepare you for the classroom.
How long does it take to earn an MA in Teaching with a Preliminary Education Specialist, Extensive Support Needs Credential?
To earn the SPED credential portion, you will need to complete 36 credit hours of coursework — 18 introductory block credits (six courses) and 18 content area block credits (six courses), along with 10 or 12 credit hours of internship teaching or student teaching. From there, earning your Master of Arts in Teaching will require an additional nine credit hours (three courses).
The credential can be earned as quickly as 18 to 24 months, with the MAT adding two to four extra months. This timeframe assumes you take two courses per eight-week session, and it may vary depending upon the session in which you start.
Remember, should you choose the UMass Global Internship Pathway, you can begin intern teaching as the teacher of record in a classroom after only four courses. That way you can start earning a salary while finishing your credential and MAT courses.
How does adding a Master of Arts in Teaching benefit me beyond having my bachelor’s degree and this extensive support needs special education teaching credential?
- Expertise — You’ll expand your skills as an educator through the additional courses needed to earn your MAT, which all focus on broader issues in education.
- Increased salary potential — Most school districts offer higher pay tiers depending on the level of education.
- Career options — Having a master’s degree expands career options into areas such as curriculum coordinator, department head, assessment director, and various administrative roles.
- Expanded teaching — Should you choose at some point to broaden your teaching from the special education realm, an MAT can allow you to do so, although you may still have to gain subject matter expertise if you move into a completely new area. Still, your MAT would open possibilities teaching at community colleges, doing educational consulting, working at education nonprofits, and other options.