Doctor of Audiology
USD's Au.D. program is a comprehensive four-year post-baccalaureate curriculum that...
M.A. in Special Education
Vermillion, South Dakota
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
USD's M.A. in Special Education provides a flexible framework that can be completed in four semesters or extended over a longer period, accommodating both full-time students and working professionals. It offers several specializations, including Multicategorical Special Education K-12 (often leading to initial teaching certification), Advanced Specialist in Disabilities (for current special educators seeking advanced knowledge), and Early Childhood Special Education. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, program-specific classes, and close collaboration with peers, all under the mentorship of expert professors who help design individualized plans of study. It is ideal for individuals seeking to work with students with special needs and those aspiring to leadership roles in the field.
Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide an in-depth understanding of effective pedagogical practices for special education. Core coursework typically covers topics such as vocational-transitional programming, education of persons with exceptional needs, behavior management, and educating students with specific disabilities like Autism Spectrum Disorders, Emotional & Behavioral Disorders, and Cognitive Disabilities. For those pursuing initial certification, the curriculum also integrates student teaching and practicum experiences. The program promotes an intensive study of current issues in special education, including advanced teaching and assessment practices in high-need disability areas and vocational-transitional planning, ensuring graduates are well-versed in contemporary challenges and solutions.
Research Focus: While the M.A. in Special Education is a professional degree focused on practical application, it is informed by research and scholarship in the field. The program encourages students to base their teaching decisions on evidence-based practices and current research. Students will engage with the latest research on topics such as applied behavior analysis, autism spectrum disorder interventions, behavior management strategies, and advanced assessment practices. Faculty members are actively involved in research, and the curriculum is designed to help students critically analyze research findings and apply them to real-world classroom settings. Students may have opportunities to engage in scholarly projects or a thesis, depending on their chosen track.
Industry Engagement: The University of South Dakota's School of Education places a strong emphasis on real-world, professional experience and collaboration with school districts. The program aims to equip students with valuable, professional-level skills through unique features such as a robust year-long residency for those seeking initial certification. USD partners with numerous school districts in South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska to provide extensive clinical experiences. Graduate assistantships and fellowships are available, offering not only financial support but also hands-on professional experience, often in teaching or research roles, which further bridges the gap between academic learning and industry demands.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Special Education at USD implicitly fosters a global perspective by preparing educators to meet the diverse needs of all learners in an increasingly multicultural world. The program emphasizes understanding and adapting to a wide range of disability areas and related services, which prepares graduates to work with students from various backgrounds and with differing needs. While explicit international travel components are not typically highlighted for this program, the principles of inclusive education and advocating for diverse learners are universal. The program's focus on developing effective teaching strategies and fostering meaningful learning experiences is applicable across different educational systems globally, contributing to a broader understanding of educational equity and access.
Location
Vermillion, South Dakota
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 12800
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $38
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.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of South Dakota (USD) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and make quality education at USD more accessible to talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: USD awards merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships recognize outstanding high school or previous college performance and are renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.
International Student Academic Scholarships: These scholarships are specifically tailored for international undergraduate students and can cover a significant portion of tuition fees. Eligibility is typically based on a combination of academic excellence and the completion of the admission process by specified deadlines. Many of these scholarships are automatically considered upon application, so no separate application is required.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: For international graduate students, USD provides graduate assistantships and fellowships that offer financial support alongside valuable professional experience. These opportunities often include tuition waivers and a stipend in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative work within the university.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain USD academic departments and colleges offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study, such as business, health sciences, or fine arts. These scholarships often reward exceptional talent and dedication within those disciplines.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Special Education from the University of South Dakota (USD) opens a wide range of rewarding career opportunities dedicated to supporting students with diverse learning needs. This advanced degree equips graduates with specialized knowledge, evidence-based instructional strategies, and the critical thinking skills necessary to create inclusive and effective learning environments.
Special Education Teacher (Advanced Practice/Lead Teacher): While many enter teaching with a bachelor's, an M.A. allows for deeper specialization and often leads to higher pay and leadership roles within the classroom or department, such as serving as a mentor or lead teacher for less experienced colleagues.
Special Education Administrator/Coordinator: These professionals oversee special education programs at the school or district level. They manage budgets, develop policies, ensure compliance with federal and state regulations (like IDEA), and supervise special education staff, playing a crucial role in shaping services for students with disabilities.
Educational Diagnostician/Evaluator: With specialized training in assessment, these roles involve conducting comprehensive evaluations of students to identify learning disabilities, developmental delays, and other special needs. They interpret test results and collaborate with families and educators to develop appropriate individualized education plans (IEPs). This role often requires or is significantly enhanced by a master's degree.
Behavior Intervention Specialist/Analyst: Graduates can work directly with students who exhibit challenging behaviors, developing and implementing behavior intervention plans. They may also train teachers and parents on effective strategies, often working in schools, residential treatment centers, or early intervention programs. Some roles may require Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification.
Early Intervention Specialist: Focusing on infants and young children (birth to age three) with developmental delays or disabilities, these specialists provide therapy and support services to enhance cognitive, social, and motor skill development, often working with families in home or clinic settings.
Instructional Coordinator/Curriculum Developer (Special Education): These professionals develop and implement curricula and instructional strategies specifically designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities. They may train other teachers and ensure that educational materials are accessible and effective for diverse learners.
Transition Coordinator: Specializing in helping students with disabilities prepare for life after high school, these coordinators assist with planning for post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, and independent living. This deeply impactful role helps students build fulfilling adult lives.
Special Education Advocate: Graduates can work for non-profit organizations or as independent advocates, assisting families in navigating the complex special education system, understanding their rights, and ensuring their children receive appropriate services and accommodations.
Assistive Technology Specialist: Combining knowledge of special education with technological expertise, these specialists evaluate and recommend assistive devices and software (e.g., communication devices, adaptive hardware) that empower students with disabilities to access the curriculum and communicate effectively.
Consultant (Special Education): Experienced graduates can provide consulting services to school districts, private schools, or other organizations, offering expertise on best practices in special education, program development, compliance, or professional development for staff.
