Special Education, Moderate Disabilities: Initial Licensure/Non-Licensure (PreK-8, 5-12) (Master of Education)

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Those seeking an initial license, who meet the licensure program requirements, follow the Initial Licensure program of study. Those seeking the master’s, but not the license, complete the Non-Licensure program of study. The non-licensure master’s does not lead to licensure in the state of Massachusetts.

At the start of the program, students choose a grade level (PreK-8 or 5-12) in which they want to earn the moderate disabilities license. The grade level they chose determines the MTELs they must pass and the grade level in which the practicum experience will be completed.

Courses that are cross-listed between the Moderate and Severe Disabilities programs will require students to complete coursework appropriately differentiated for the license sought.

Initial Licensure Program of Study
Prerequisite: Passing score on the Communication and Literacy MTEL
To meet the licensure program requirements, students must successfully complete all of the required MTELs, coursework, fieldwork, and Comprehensive Examination. Students are required to pass all required MTELs prior to enrolling in the practicum. Students who are unable to meet these requirements can complete the Non-Licensure masters which replaces the Practicum and Reflective Seminar with two education electives.

Non- Licensure Program of Study
The non-licensure master’s does not lead to licensure in the state of Massachusetts. No MTELs are required in this program.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

Demonstrate knowledge of typical child and adolescent development and exceptionalities
Design high quality and coherent instruction, including authentic and meaningful student assessments
Analyze student performance and growth data and to use this data to improve instruction and practice
Teach all students through instructional practices that establish high expectations, a safe and effective classroom environment, and cultural proficiency.
Promote the learning and growth of all students through effective partnerships with families, caregivers, community members, and organizations.
Ensure the learning and growth of all students through ethical, culturally proficient, skilled, and collaborative practice

Initial Licensure Program of Study

The Master of Education in Special Education, Moderate Disabilities Initial Licensure Program requires 12 courses.

*Courses required for obtaining Initial Licensure

+ Practicum placements will be appropriate to the level of the license sought, PreK-8 or 5-12

Total Degree Requirements - 36 credits

Non-Licensure Program of Study

The Master of Education in Moderate Disabilities Non-Licensure Program requires 12 courses.

*Electives are chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor

Electives - 9 cr.