Special Education: Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Curriculum & Instruction

Program Description

The Education Specialist program with an emphasis in Special Education is a 30 hour program beyond the master's degree. The program provides a broader understanding of research-based practices as it applies to the classroom, clinical setting, or a community agency. The program also consists of field experiences which foster the depth of knowledge and skills necessary for becoming an expert and a leader in the field of Special Education.

The program is designed for individuals seeking an advanced degree, which leads to AAA certification in Special Education.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet these requirements:

• 3.25 GPA on all previous graduate coursework
• AA License (or eligibility for) in the content or related area
• 2 years teaching or relevant experience (letter from employer on letterhead)
• Results from a national standardized achievement/aptitude test predictive of the ability to complete a graduate program successfully. These include but are not limited to: Passing Score on Praxis II Content Field, or Passing Score on Praxis II PLT, or competitive Graduate Record Examination scores (GRE: all sections).
• Statement of Professional/ Academic Goals
• Two (2) Graduate Reference Forms

Application deadlines:

• April 1 (Priority for fall admission)

See the Graduate Handbook for information on completing the application process.

Career Opportunities

The program includes preparing graduates to deliver appropriate levels of service to individuals with exceptional learning needs in various settings. Graduates from this program have found positions in schools, clinical settings, or community agencies serving individuals with exceptional learning needs.

Online/Regional Campus Options

The on-campus program does offer some online, hybrid, and compressed video courses, but the majority utilizes the traditional face-to-face approach. Some courses are offered at Desoto, Tupelo, Booneville, and Grenada.

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