Special Education MEd

Program-at-a-Glance (Graduate)

Credit Hours:

Total Hours: 30

Cost per Credit Hour:

$578.12

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Completion Time:

1-3 years *pending hours enrolled

Accreditation:

Special Requirements:

None

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Special education teachers are in high demand, and if you’re a leader determined to guide the way in teaching, supporting, and advocating for exceptional individuals, then a Special Education MEd from The University of Southern Mississippi is for you! This program is for current teachers and individuals who would like to enter the teaching profession. All students build or enhance a strong foundation in educating students with high-incidence disabilities. Students are also able to select an area of emphasis that prepares them to work with students who need more pervasive supports, such as emotional behavior disorders and/or severe disabilities. The program includes experiences working with K-12 students.

Looking for more education-related degrees? Check out our other fully online options! Want more info about this degree? Our enrollment coaches are standing by to assist you. Click here for more info! This is your life, plus college!

Scholarship opportunities are available for online students! Our Online Student Scholarship gives first-time, fully online students an opportunity for $500 towards their first semester. To get started with our Online Student Scholarship or to view our list of available scholarships for which you may qualify, visit our Student Scholarship page now!

What can you do with a Special Education MEd?

A Master’s in Special Education allows you to develop the knowledge and skills to make a significant impact on the lives of students with special needs, promoting inclusive and supportive learning environments.

Course Requirements

Course	Credits
Transition Programming: School to Adult Life	3 hrs.
Assessment of Individuals with Exceptionalities	3 hrs.
Legal Issues in Educating Exceptional Learners	3 hrs.
Advanced Methods in Behavioral Management for Individuals with Disabilities	3 hrs.
Advanced Practicum in Special Education	3 hrs.

Select 1 course:

Course	Credits
Single Subject Research in Educational Settings	3 hrs.
Educational Research: Interpretation and Applications	3 hrs.

Advisor Approved Electives (12 hours)

Additional Note

Please note that the above information is meant to be a guide and is not official. For further information regarding courses for this degree, see the University Bulletin. Please be aware that not all course choices listed in the University Bulletin are available online. However, sufficient online options are available to complete this degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this program lead to initial licensure or an upgraded license in Mississippi or any other state?

This program of study meets Mississippi’s state standards for advanced licensure. Students who intend to seek licensure in another state should verify that this program of study meets the desired state’s licensure requirements. For additional information on professional licensure, see the Professional Licensure page https://www.usm.edu/professional-licensure-certification-disclosures/index.php

Are there additional fees for the Masters in Special Education?

Additional course fees may apply. Fees range between $20 – $60.

What are the costs?

To find pricing information, visit our pricing page. For financial aid information, view our financial aid page. For detailed tuition information, visit our business services page.

Are there scholarships available for grad students?

Yes! To view all the funding resources available to graduate students, please visit the Graduate Admissions Funding Resources page.

What are the concentration areas in the M.Ed. in Special Education?

We offer four concentration areas for the Special Education degree: Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Emotional/Behavior Disorders, Severe/Low Incidence Disabilities, and Gifted Education.

Am I eligible for licensure in these areas as well?

Each of the emphasis areas are designed to lead to licensure through the Mississippi Department of Education. While universities do not grant licensure, we work very closely with the MDE to ensure that you are eligible for licensure upon completion of our programs. In some instances, you can attain licensure before completing the full degree course sequences. You should speak to our Coordinator for Special Education (Dr. Alisa Lowery, Alisa.Lowery@usm.edu) to discuss your specific situation.

What if I’ve missed the application deadline?

It is strongly recommended that candidates complete the application process as early as possible. In order to be assured that there is adequate time for all documents to be reviewed by the admissions committee, it is requested that all required documents be submitted no later than three weeks prior to the beginning of the beginning of the semester you wish to begin coursework. If documents are submitted after this time, candidates may choose to enroll in courses with non-degree seeking admission status. Please note that non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid.

To take courses as a non-degree student, you must (1) complete an application to the Graduate School and (2) complete the non-degree enrollment form. Both can be found at this link: http://apps.usm.edu/graduate-school/grad-school-apps/

What are the costs for the Masters in Special Education?

To find pricing information, visit our pricing page. For financial aid information, view our financial aid page. For detailed tuition information, visit our business services page.

What other online degrees are offered by Online at Southern Miss?

Please visit our programs page here: https://online.usm.edu/programs/

Will other classes besides the ones listed in degree requirements count towards my Masters in Special Education?

Other classes that aren’t listed may count towards your degree once your transcript has been evaluated and posted.

Can this Masters in Special Education be completed fully online?

Yes, the program is available totally online. Students are not required to visit campus for an in-class lecture; however, an online lecture may be required by your instructor.

Do online students pay out-of-state tuition?

No, online students pay resident tuition. For information about pricing, click here.

Are you a military veteran or service member?

If yes, visit online.usm.edu/military for more information on how Southern Miss can serve you and your needs. We will help you with funding and scholarship information, admissions, and course enrollment.

What if I still have questions about the university?

If you still have questions, please visit our FAQ page, or take a moment to fill out our form at the bottom of the screen, and we will reach out to you!

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in Academic Requirements and Procedures, applicants must submit the following documents:

Letters of Recommendation – Three (3) letters of recommendation from professionals in the field of education who are qualified to assess the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
Statement of Purpose – In a letter or essay format, describe your professional experiences and goals and how obtaining this degree will help you to realize those goals.
CV/Résumé
Copy of current educator license, if applicable.

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

In addition to the requirements detailed in General Degree Requirements and General Academic Information, students who are seeking initial licensure or who have gained special education licensure through alternative routes may be required to complete additional courses to satisfy program prerequisite deficiencies. Students without a current educator license will be required to take SPE 500.

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