Program Overview

Teaching, Learning and Leadership, MS

Special Education

The master's degree in Teaching, Learning and Leadership with an option in Special Education is designed to train and equip educators who work with students with disabilities across a variety of K-12 educational settings. Our graduates have the foundational knowledge and skills needed to work with children with disabilities by addressing academic, communication, social, behavioral and adaptive skills. We prepare educators who value diversity, life-long learning and advocate for quality educational opportunities for all students.

Option Details

• Option: Special Education Courses
• Department: School of Teaching, Learning and Educational Sciences
• College: Education and Human Sciences
• Available At: OSU Stillwater Campus
• Degree: Master of Science in Teaching, Learning and Leadership

Curriculum

This face-to-face learning pathway is designed for those seeking to provide intensive behavioral and academic interventions for a successful student learning experience. Program curriculum addresses the principles of special education, positive behavior interventions and supports and applied behavior analysis. This face-to-face coursework has been verified by Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), which gives students the opportunity to pursue national board certification in behavior analysis.

Coursework includes:

• Advanced Interventions for Increased Academic Achievement
• Improving Literacy Skills of Individuals with Disabilities
• Planning, Compliance & Instruction in Special Education
• Transition into Adulthood for Individuals with Disabilities
• Characteristics & Teaching Methods for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Classroom & Behavior Management
• Behavioral Assessment and Consultation
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Culturally Responsive Teaching in Special Education

Research and Faculty

Research within our program is collaborative and interdisciplinary. Such collaborations have resulted in international travel opportunities, national and international publication, grant funding and national conference presentations for our students and faculty. Our faculty represent a broad range of special education experience, including classroom teachers, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and special education administration. Our research focuses not only on students and children, but also stakeholders such as teachers, administrators, families, and therapists.

Admissions

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis each semester, with the following deadlines:

• Fall - January 15
• Spring - September 15

To apply to the Teaching, Learning and Leadership - option in Special Education, MS program, complete the following:

• Graduate College application
• Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Current resume/vita
• Personal goal statement (500 words)
• Two letters of recommendation

Cost & Assistance

The federal TEACH Grant Program may provide up to $4,000 a year to aid students seeking degrees in high-needs fields and who meet specific eligibility requirements. Students must sign an Agreement to Serve and acknowledge that if the terms are not fulfilled, the grant will be converted to a loan that must be repaid.

Currently enrolled students are also eligible for scholarships offered through the College of Education and Human Sciences.