M.A. in Educational Studies - Special Education

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Postgraduate applicants are required to hold a bachelor's degree with a strong academic record. The range for academic qualifications is between 70% and 80%.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no band less than 6
• TOEFL iBT: An overall TOEFL score required is 80.
• PTE: Minimum PTE score of 53 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum DET score required is 105.

The University of St. Thomas (UST) in Minnesota, USA, extends a warm welcome to international students by offering a range of scholarships designed to enhance accessibility and support their educational journey. These scholarships underscore UST's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community while providing financial assistance to deserving students from around the world.

1.International Merit Scholarships: UST recognizes and rewards academic excellence in international students through merit-based scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on outstanding academic achievements, including high school or college GPA, standardized test scores, and other notable accomplishments.

2.Global Leaders Scholarship:UST values leadership qualities and encourages students to actively contribute to their communities. The Global Leaders Scholarship is designed to support international students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to making a positive impact.

3.Cultural Diversity Scholarship: Celebrating the richness of cultural diversity, UST offers the Cultural Diversity Scholarship to international students who contribute to the vibrant multicultural tapestry of the university. This scholarship aims to recognize and support students from various cultural backgrounds.

4.Need-Based Financial Aid: Understanding the financial challenges that international students may face, UST provides need-based financial aid to eligible individuals. This aid is tailored to address specific financial circumstances, ensuring that deserving students have the resources to pursue their academic goals.

5.International Transfer Student Scholarships: UST acknowledges the achievements and unique challenges faced by international transfer students. Scholarships for international transfers aim to facilitate a smooth transition and recognize the academic accomplishments of students transferring to UST.

6. Global Perspectives Scholarship: Emphasizing the importance of a global outlook, UST offers the Global Perspectives Scholarship to international students who actively contribute to fostering cross-cultural understanding and engagement on campus.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Studies with a specialization in Special Education at the University of St. Thomas prepares graduates for dynamic and impactful careers in the field of special education. With a strong emphasis on inclusive practices, technological integration, and practical experience, the program equips educators with the skills necessary to address the diverse needs of students. The M.A. in Educational Studies - Special Education program at the University of St. Thomas not only opens doors to diverse career paths but also empowers educators to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with special needs. The combination of inclusive pedagogy, technology integration, and advocacy skills positions graduates as leaders in the evolving landscape of special education.

1. Special Education Teacher: Graduates are well-prepared to take on roles as special education teachers in K-12 settings. They can design and implement individualized education plans (IEPs), adapt instructional strategies, and create inclusive learning environments to support students with diverse abilities.

2. Inclusion Specialist: The program's focus on inclusive pedagogy positions graduates to become inclusion specialists. In this role, educators work collaboratively with general education teachers to ensure that students with special needs are fully integrated into mainstream classrooms.

3. Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) Specialist: With expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis, graduates can pursue careers as ABA specialists. This role involves implementing behavior intervention plans, conducting assessments, and supporting individuals with behavioral challenges.

4. Technology Integration Specialist: Given the STEM designation of the program, graduates are equipped to become technology integration specialists. They can leverage technology to create adaptive learning materials, utilize assistive technologies, and enhance educational experiences for students with special needs.

5. Special Education Coordinator or Director: Graduates with advanced degrees may pursue leadership roles as special education coordinators or directors. In these positions, they can oversee special education programs, collaborate with school administrators, and advocate for policies that support inclusive education.

6. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: The program emphasizes advocacy skills, enabling graduates to become champions for inclusive education policies. They can work with educational institutions, policymakers, and advocacy organizations to promote policies that support the rights and inclusion of students with special needs.

7. Educational Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as educational consultants, offering expertise in special education to schools, districts, or educational organizations. This role allows them to provide guidance on best practices, professional development, and program improvement.

8. Ph.D. or Researcher in Special Education: For those inclined towards research and academia, the program provides a foundation for pursuing a Ph.D. and engaging in research in the field of special education. Graduates can contribute to advancing knowledge and practices in inclusive education.