Special Education Specialization

The Disabilities Studies Specialization prepares teachers and professionals for leadership roles in the field of special education and disabilities. Completion of this degree prepares graduates to further expand their knowledge of individuals with disabilities of diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It equips practitioners with the knowledge of best practice and policies for working with students with disabilities and their families.

Masters Core Courses (9 units) 
•  EDUC 605 - Education in a Diverse Society Units: 3  
•  EDUC 615 - Principles of Educational Research Units: 3 
Select either: 
•  EDUC 616 - Masters Research Thesis/Project Units: 1-3 *  
•  (Continuing registration required) 
•  or 
•  EDUC 618 - Comprehensive Examination Units: 1-3  
•  or 
•  EDUC 619 - Masters Project Units: 1-3 
Note: 
* (MA students in the Special Education Specialization must take 3 units of EDUC 616 or 3 units of 
EDUC 618 or 3 units of EDUC 619 .) 

Courses for Specialization (18 units) 
•  SPED 541 - Foundations of Special Education Units: 3  
•  SPED 542 - Managing Learning Environments Units: 3  
•  SPED 641 - Advanced Perspectives in Special Education Units: 3  
•  SPED 643 - Advanced Assessment and Instructional Practices for Diverse Learners Units: 3  
•  SPED 690 - Advanced Topics: Special Education Units: 3  
•  EDUC 617 - Action Research Units: 3 

Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement 
Writing proficiency for the awarding of the degree is demonstrated by successful completion of EDUC 605 
- Education in a Diverse Society , with a grade of B or higher. 
 

Application — Apply to both the University Admissions office and the School of Education.

One Set of Official Transcripts — One official set of transcripts from each of the colleges or universities attended must be mailed directly to the CI Admissions office. Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required to be accepted into the Master of Arts in Education Special Education Program.

Two Letters of Recommendation — Two letters of recommendation from professionals who are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional work.

Interview. Interview with the School of Education Admissions Committee.

Writing Sample — A written statement of purpose (500-600 word essay) describing why the candidate desires to obtain a Master of Education in Special Education. This essay will include reflection on personal and professional goals and the ways in which the knowledge and skills will be developed to achieve these goals.