Master of Special Education, MSE

MSE Program Description

The Master of Special Education is designed to be completed by certified teachers seeking certification to work with students with disabilities. Students without certification, who work in a profession where an in-depth knowledge of individuals with disabilities is required, may earn their master’s degree without endorsement. This program prepares educators to take a leadership role in the field of special education.

MSE Admission Requirements

This program follows the general admission requirements for graduate programs and School of Education’s requirements. Applicants must submit the following information:

• Contact information for two references.
• Teacher certification information.
• Misdemeanor/felony conviction disclosure.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA for at least the last two years of the bachelor’s degree is required.

Grades earned after the bachelor’s degree may be considered in admission decisions.

MSE Outcomes

• To enhance the professional knowledge and skills of special educators.
• To provide special educators with the opportunity to acquire the leadership, classroom management, technological, and instructional skills necessary to meet the increasing demands of exceptional students.
• To prepare special educators to understand language and behavioral challenges and develop effective strategies and interventions.
• To equip special educators in methods of assessment and instruction to provide appropriate interventions for students struggling in reading, math, and other subject areas.
• To provide special educators with the opportunity to examine and/or strengthen their basis for dealing with questions of ethics and values.
• To provide special educators with the opportunity to acquire, refresh, or expand their knowledge of the role of research in education.
• To enable special educators to apply analytical research skills to current problems in the field of special education.

MSE Concentrations

The MSE offers two concentrations: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Learning Disabilities (LD). Students meeting course requirements and passing the appropriate Michigan Test for Teacher Certification in either concentration will be recommended for the endorsement on an existing Michigan teaching certificate.