M.A. in Special Education

Application Fees : US$ 70

Postgraduate Admissions:

• A minimum undergraduate degree with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 60% or higher.
   
• English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving satisfactory scores in one of the following standardized tests:
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 overall.
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: Minimum score of 55.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
     
• WES Evaluation Required.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to specific programs at CSULA. Some programs may have additional requirements or criteria, such as a portfolio review or an interview. CSULA encourages international students to apply early and submit all required documents by the specified deadlines. 

California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) provides several scholarship opportunities for international students to support their educational journey. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the university community. 

1. International Eagle Scholarship: The International Eagle Scholarship is designed for undergraduate and graduate international students who demonstrate academic excellence. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable based on maintaining a specified GPA. Eligible students must have completed at least one semester at CSULA.

2. President's Scholarship: The President's Scholarship is a prestigious award offered to outstanding international undergraduate students. It covers full tuition and fees for up to four years of study. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.

3. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship provides financial assistance to international graduate students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds or groups underrepresented in higher education. The fellowship supports full-time enrollment and offers a stipend to cover living expenses.

4. CSU Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement: The CSU Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement is a system-wide scholarship program that recognizes exceptional undergraduate students across the California State University system. International students who meet the eligibility criteria, including academic achievement and community service, can apply for this competitive scholarship.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: CSULA's colleges and departments also offer discipline-specific scholarships for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, field of study, or specific criteria set by the respective college or department.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

 The M.A. in Special Education program at CSULA prepares graduates for a variety of careers in special education and related fields.  

1. Special Education Teacher: Graduates can work as special education teachers in public and private schools, serving students with disabilities. They develop and implement individualized education plans, adapt instruction to meet students' needs, and collaborate with general education teachers and support staff.

2. Inclusion Specialist: Graduates can work as inclusion specialists or inclusion coordinators, supporting schools in creating inclusive environments for students with disabilities. They collaborate with teachers, provide professional development, and develop strategies to ensure the successful inclusion of students with disabilities.

3. Behavior Interventionist: Graduates can work as behavior interventionists, implementing behavior support plans and interventions for students with challenging behaviors. They collaborate with teachers, conduct assessments, and provide support to improve behavior management strategies and promote positive behavior.

4. Early Intervention Specialist: Graduates can work in early intervention programs, supporting infants and young children with developmental delays or disabilities. They assess children's needs, develop individualized plans, provide therapy and support to children and their families, and collaborate with a team of professionals.

5. Education Consultant: Graduates can work as education consultants, providing support and expertise to schools, districts, or organizations in the field of special education. They may offer guidance on inclusive practices, curriculum adaptations, behavior management strategies, and program development.

6. Special Education Administrator: Graduates can pursue administrative roles in special education, such as special education coordinators or directors. They oversee special education programs, ensure compliance with regulations, collaborate with stakeholders, and provide leadership in developing inclusive and equitable educational environments.

7. Advocate or Parent Educator: Graduates can work as advocates or parent educators, supporting families of children with disabilities. They provide information, resources, and guidance to parents, helping them navigate the special education system, understand their child's rights, and advocate for appropriate services and supports.

8. ResearchOpportunities: Graduates can pursue research careers in academia, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They may contribute to the field of special education through research studies, program evaluation, policy analysis, or the development of evidence-based practices.

It's important to note that specific career prospects may vary based on factors such as individual skills, experience, and location. Graduates of the M.A. in Special Education program at CSULA are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences needed to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. They are prepared to work in diverse educational settings, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and advocate for inclusive and equitable education for students with disabilities.