M.Ed. in Special Education
The University of North Florida (UNF) in Jacksonville offers a Master of Education (M.E...
M.Ed. in Special Education
Jacksonville, Florida
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The University of North Florida (UNF) in Jacksonville offers a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education through its College of Education and Human Services, designed to prepare highly skilled professionals to work with individuals with disabilities. The program emphasizes a commitment to inclusive education and aims to equip graduates to serve as Florida State Certified Special Education Teachers, as well as consulting teachers, behavior analysts, and parent-infant specialists. UNF's program recognizes the diverse needs of exceptional students, spanning from preschool to adulthood, and also addresses the needs of their families. The program is flexible, with options for online delivery, and is structured to provide both foundational knowledge and advanced practice in special education.
Curriculum: The M.Ed. in Special Education at UNF typically consists of 30-36 credit hours, building upon prerequisite undergraduate coursework. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering core areas essential for effective special education practice. Key courses often include topics such as communication, collaboration, and consultation in special education, single-case research design, current issues and trends in exceptional education, and universal design for learning (UDL) for diversity and inclusion. Students also select from a range of electives that delve into specific areas like teaching students with exceptionalities in inclusive settings, special education policy and leadership, instructional and assistive technology, and positive behavioral interventions and supports. The program also integrates practical fieldwork experiences within K-12 special education classrooms, ensuring students gain hands-on application of theoretical knowledge.
Research Focus: The UNF M.Ed. in Special Education program emphasizes an evidence-based approach to teaching and intervention. While it is a professional master's degree primarily focused on preparing practitioners, the curriculum integrates research methodologies. Students are exposed to research designs like single-case research, which is crucial for evaluating interventions for individual students with disabilities. The program fosters a research-informed mindset, enabling graduates to critically analyze and apply current research findings to their teaching practices. Faculty members are often engaged in research related to improving outcomes for individuals with disabilities, and this scholarly work enriches the classroom experience and contributes to the program's strong academic foundation. Students may also engage in culminating projects that involve data-driven decision-making.
Industry Engagement: The University of North Florida's M.Ed. in Special Education program is deeply connected to the educational community, particularly within Northeast Florida. The program's emphasis on hands-on experience means that students engage directly with local schools and educational agencies. This includes fieldwork and practical experiences in K-12 special education classrooms, allowing students to apply learned theories in real-world settings and interact with certified special education teachers and school administrators. UNF also has established partnerships and initiatives such as the Student Accessibility Center (SAC), the THRIVE Program, and other community-based projects that provide additional opportunities for students to gain experience and contribute to the field of disability services. These strong ties facilitate networking and often lead to employment opportunities for graduates within the region.
Global Perspective: While the primary focus of the M.Ed. in Special Education at UNF is on preparing professionals to work within the U.S. educational system and its specific regulations, the program implicitly fosters a global perspective through its emphasis on inclusive practices, understanding diverse learning needs, and promoting equity. The principles of universal design for learning, effective instructional strategies for diverse learners, and culturally responsive teaching are globally applicable and contribute to a broader understanding of educational challenges and solutions worldwide. Graduates are prepared to address the needs of a diverse student population, reflecting a commitment to serving all learners, regardless of their background, which aligns with international trends in inclusive education.
Location
Jacksonville, Florida
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 18803
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $31
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Florida (UNF) offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNF provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic performance, standardized test scores, and extracurricular accomplishments. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are awarded automatically to eligible applicants during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarships: Special scholarships are reserved exclusively for international students. Examples include the International Freshman Scholarship and the International Transfer Scholarship, which reward high-achieving students with financial aid packages that may cover partial to full tuition fees.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While limited for international students, some need-based financial aid options may be available through private organizations or partnerships coordinated by UNF’s financial aid office. International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship databases for additional funding opportunities.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments and colleges at UNF offer scholarships targeted to students enrolled in specific fields of study. International students can apply for these scholarships based on their major, research interests, or academic achievements within their discipline.
A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education from the University of North Florida (UNF) provides graduates with the specialized knowledge and practical skills to significantly impact the lives of individuals with disabilities. The program's focus on evidence-based practices, inclusive education, and hands-on experience prepares alumni for a diverse range of roles within and beyond the traditional classroom.
Special Education Teacher (K-12): This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates are highly qualified to teach students with various disabilities across all grade levels (preschool, elementary, middle, high school) in self-contained classrooms, resource rooms, or inclusive settings. They develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and adapt curricula to meet diverse learning needs.
Educational Diagnostician/Evaluator: These professionals conduct comprehensive assessments of students to identify learning disabilities, developmental delays, and other special needs. They interpret test results, provide diagnostic reports, and collaborate with parents and educators to develop appropriate educational plans. A master's degree is typically required for this specialized role.
Behavior Analyst/Intervention Specialist: Graduates with a strong understanding of behavior principles can work as behavior analysts or intervention specialists. They develop and implement behavior intervention plans for students with challenging behaviors, train teachers and parents, and promote positive behavior in educational and clinical settings. This often involves pursuing additional certification, such as Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Early Intervention Specialist: Focusing on infants and young children (birth to age 5) with developmental delays or disabilities, these specialists provide early intervention services, therapies, and support to families to promote early development and address specific needs.
Special Education Coordinator/Program Manager: With a master's degree, graduates can move into administrative roles within school districts or educational organizations. They oversee special education programs, manage staff, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations (like IDEA), develop policies, and allocate resources to support students with disabilities.
Curriculum Developer (Special Education): These professionals design and adapt instructional materials, lesson plans, and intervention strategies specifically tailored for students with special needs. They ensure curriculum is accessible, engaging, and aligned with educational standards.
Transition Specialist: Working with high school students with disabilities, transition specialists help prepare them for life after graduation. This includes developing individualized transition plans, focusing on post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, independent living skills, and community integration.
Inclusion Facilitator/Coach: These roles involve supporting general education teachers in creating inclusive classroom environments. Inclusion facilitators provide strategies, resources, and professional development to help teachers effectively meet the needs of students with disabilities within mainstream settings.
Advocate for Individuals with Disabilities: Graduates can work for advocacy organizations, non-profits, or as independent consultants, representing the rights and interests of students and individuals with disabilities. They provide guidance on special education laws, assist families in navigating the system, and ensure access to appropriate services and accommodations.
University/College Instructor (Adjunct): With an M.Ed. and relevant experience, some graduates may choose to teach special education courses at community colleges or as adjunct faculty at universities, preparing the next generation of special education professionals. Further doctoral study would typically be required for full-time professorships.
