M.A. in Special Education

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs are required to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is often a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, which is equivalent to 60% or above.

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS: An overall score of 7.5 or higher, with no individual band score below 7.0.
   • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 96 with no band less than 22.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 130.

DePaul University is dedicated to supporting the academic aspirations of international students. The university offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make education more accessible. 

1. International Student Scholarships: DePaul University provides merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships consider academic achievements, test scores, and other criteria.

2. Global Gateway Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for undergraduate international students who transfer from specific partner institutions to DePaul. They help facilitate a smooth transition.

3. Dean's Merit-Based Scholarships: DePaul's colleges and schools offer dean's merit-based scholarships to international students within their respective programs. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements and contributions.

4. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantships may be available to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships offer a stipend and sometimes a tuition waiver in exchange for research or teaching assistance.

5. International Experience Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate students planning to participate in study abroad programs. It provides financial support to students seeking to gain global perspectives.

6. Vincent G. Rinn Family Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students with financial need. It helps cover tuition costs and promote diversity within the DePaul community.

7. Donor-Funded Scholarships: DePaul University administers a range of donor-funded scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.

8. Athletic Scholarships: DePaul offers athletic scholarships for international student-athletes who excel in various sports. These scholarships may cover tuition and related expenses.

9. External Scholarships: DePaul encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and in the United States.

10. Fellowship Programs: Some academic departments and schools offer fellowship programs that provide financial support to international graduate students pursuing specific areas of study.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines can vary among programs and departments at DePaul University.

DePaul University's M.A. in Special Education program equips aspiring educators with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the diverse needs of learners.  

1. Special Education Teacher: Graduates are well-prepared to become special education teachers in K-12 settings. They play a crucial role in creating inclusive learning environments, adapting curriculum to individual needs, and collaborating with other educators and specialists.

2. Behavior Analyst: The program provides a strong foundation in behavior analysis, enabling graduates to pursue roles as behavior analysts. They work to assess, design, and implement interventions to address challenging behaviors in individuals with special needs.

3. Autism Specialist: With a focus on autism spectrum disorders, graduates can become specialists in working with individuals on the autism spectrum. They contribute to creating supportive learning environments and implementing evidence-based practices.

4. Educational Consultant: Specialized knowledge in special education positions graduates to become educational consultants. They may work with schools, districts, or other educational organizations to improve special education programs and outcomes.

5. Advocate for Inclusive Education: Graduates can become advocates for inclusive education policies and practices. They may work with advocacy groups, non-profit organizations, or governmental agencies to promote educational equity for individuals with special needs.

6. Curriculum Developer: Specialized expertise in adapting curriculum to meet diverse learning needs prepares graduates for roles in curriculum development. They may work to create materials that support inclusive education practices.

7. Resource Room Teacher: In K-12 settings, resource room teachers support students with special needs by providing targeted instruction, interventions, and additional resources to help them succeed academically.

8. Case Manager: Graduates can pursue roles as case managers, working with individuals with special needs and their families to navigate the educational system, access services, and ensure their unique needs are met.

9. Early Intervention Specialist: With a focus on early childhood special education, graduates can work as early intervention specialists, providing support and services to young children with developmental delays or disabilities.

10. Special Education Administrator: For those interested in leadership roles, the program prepares individuals to take on administrative positions in special education, guiding and shaping policies and practices within educational institutions.