The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Exceptional Children and Youth degree program is designed to develop professional educators committed to careers that involve children, youth, and adults with disabilities. Graduates are prepared to work as special education teachers, education consultants, and educational technology specialists.
The following information is for students entering the M.Ed. program in Fall 2013 or later. Please see the program policy document for program requirements if you began the M.Ed. before this time.
The program is comprised of three tracks.
(1) The traditional degree Masters Program (MP) track is appropriate for teachers with a teaching certificate in either general or special education who wish to develop advanced knowledge and skills. The traditional degree MP track also may be suitable for individuals who are not teachers but have other experience in the disabilities field and wish to pursue an advanced degree only. For previously certified teachers, the traditional degree track also may be a path to a second certificate in special education. Within the MP track, focus areas include:
- Elementary Special Education
- Secondary Special Education
- Special Education Technology
- Severe Disabilities/Autism
(2) The alternate route Masters Plus Certification Program (MPCP) track is appropriate for individuals who seek to acquire advanced knowledge and skills while also obtaining their first teaching certificate. Within the MPCP track, focus areas include:
- Elementary Special Education
- Secondary Special Education
- Severe Disabilities/Autism
(3) The 4+1 programs for current UD undergraduate early childhood education, elementary teacher education and secondary education majors who want an additional certification in special education and an advanced degree. There are three 4+1 tracks for students in the areas of:
Other options for current teachers include:
- Autism Certification (for current special education teachers only), or
- Post-master’s Course of Study in elementary or secondary special education (for general or special education teachers)
Advisors
Several faculty members advise students in the Exceptional Children and Youth program.
Application Information
Please see this web page for information on applying to the M.Ed. in Exceptional Children and Youth program.
