M.Ed. in Special Education
Mississippi College, located in Clinton, Mississippi, offers a comprehensive Master of ...
M.Ed. in Dyslexia Therapy
Clinton, Mississippi
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.Ed. in Dyslexia Therapy at Mississippi College is a research-based training program that focuses on providing participants with the theoretical knowledge, appropriate methodologies, curricular understanding, and applied techniques necessary to assist students struggling with dyslexia. It's accredited at both the Therapy and Instructor of Therapy levels by the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC) and is an International Dyslexia Association (IDA) accredited program, ensuring it meets high national standards for quality and effectiveness in dyslexia intervention. The program is offered in a hybrid format, combining on-campus instruction (typically during two summers), online courses, and weekend sessions, alongside a supervised practicum experience, making it accessible for working professionals.
Curriculum: The 30-credit-hour curriculum is structured to provide an intensive and practical education in dyslexia therapy. Core courses include "Introduction to Dyslexia Therapy and Multisensory Basic Language Skills I," "Dyslexia Therapy Theory and Practice of Multisensory Basic Language Skills I," "Dyslexia Therapy - Planning & Applications," and "Dyslexia Therapy - Assessment & Evaluation." A significant component of the program is the 720 supervised clinical practicum hours spread across multiple internship courses ("Dyslexia Therapy - Internship I, II, III, IV"). This extensive practicum provides hands-on experience in delivering comprehensive dyslexia therapy. The curriculum is designed to align with the International Dyslexia Association's (IDA) Knowledge and Practice Standards.
Research Focus: The M.Ed. in Dyslexia Therapy at Mississippi College is explicitly described as a research-based program. While it is a professional master's degree aimed at developing practitioner skills, it emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices. The curriculum incorporates "relevant theory and research" and requires students to engage in "Advanced Research Applications" as part of the broader M.Ed. framework. The program's foundation in the Orton-Gillingham approach, a scientifically validated methodology, underscores its commitment to research-informed instruction. Graduates are trained to understand the latest research in dyslexia and apply appropriate methodologies, ensuring their therapy is effective and grounded in scientific understanding.
Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's Dyslexia Therapy program is highly engaged with the professional community. It has strong support from the National and Mississippi Scottish Rite Masons, and the program frequently partners with organizations like the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA) to host conferences and raise awareness about dyslexia. Graduates are prepared to sit for the ALTA national examination, which leads to national certification as a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and membership in ALTA. The program emphasizes practical application through its extensive supervised practicum experiences, often in collaboration with the Mississippi College Education and Evaluation Center, local and state education agencies, private therapists, and both independent and public schools. This strong industry connection ensures graduates are job-ready and have access to professional networks. Many graduates have also successfully opened their own independent dyslexia therapy centers, addressing a significant community need.
Global Perspective: While the M.Ed. in Dyslexia Therapy at Mississippi College primarily focuses on preparing therapists for practice within the U.S. educational system and its specific licensure requirements (like the Mississippi Department of Education endorsement), the principles of dyslexia therapy and multisensory structured language education have a universal application. The Orton-Gillingham approach, on which the program is based, is recognized internationally. Mississippi College, as an institution, has a diverse student body, which can bring varied cultural insights to discussions around learning differences. Though not a direct focus, the understanding gained about neurodiversity and effective pedagogical strategies for specific learning disabilities is globally relevant, as dyslexia affects individuals across all cultures and languages.
Location
Clinton, Mississippi
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 13856
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
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 52 or higher.
Mississippi College is making quality education affordable for students from around the world. To support this goal, the college offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students, helping to reduce the overall cost of tuition and living expenses.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. These awards are determined by evaluating high school GPA (or equivalent), standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), and other academic achievements. The scholarship amount varies, with awards ranging from partial to significant tuition discounts, which are renewable based on academic performance.
Presidential and Dean’s Scholarships: Highly qualified international students may receive Presidential or Dean’s Scholarships, two of the most prestigious awards offered by Mississippi College. These scholarships are based on exceptional academic credentials and leadership potential and can cover a substantial portion of tuition costs.
A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Dyslexia Therapy from Mississippi College uniquely qualifies graduates to serve as highly specialized educators and therapists for individuals with dyslexia and related learning differences. This program, with its strong emphasis on the Orton-Gillingham approach and extensive supervised practicum hours, prepares professionals for direct intervention, assessment, and leadership roles in addressing literacy challenges. Graduates are also eligible for national certification and state licensure endorsements.
Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT): This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates are eligible to sit for the ALTA (Academic Language Therapy Association) national examination, leading to CALT certification. CALTs provide direct, intensive, multisensory structured language therapy to individuals with dyslexia in schools, private practice, or specialized learning centers.
Dyslexia Specialist/Interventionist (K-12 School Setting): Work within public or independent schools to identify students with dyslexia, conduct assessments, and deliver targeted interventions. They often collaborate with classroom teachers to implement accommodations and support strategies.
Educational Diagnostician (Specializing in Literacy): While often requiring additional certification or a broader special education background, the M.Ed. in Dyslexia Therapy provides a strong foundation for assessing learning disabilities, particularly those related to reading and written language. They conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine specific learning needs.
Private Practice Dyslexia Therapist: Many graduates establish their own independent dyslexia therapy centers or private practices, offering individualized or small-group therapy to clients of all ages. This path allows for greater autonomy and can address significant community needs.
Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach: Focus on improving reading comprehension and fluency for all students, with a specialized understanding of how to support those with dyslexia. They may work with teachers to implement effective reading strategies across the curriculum.
Learning Specialist/Support Coordinator (Independent Schools): Within independent school settings, these professionals manage learning support services for students with diverse learning profiles, including dyslexia. They coordinate accommodations, work with families, and provide direct intervention.
Professional Development Trainer (Dyslexia/Literacy): With their advanced knowledge and practical experience, graduates can train other educators, parents, and school staff on understanding dyslexia, implementing multisensory strategies, and creating inclusive learning environments.
Instructional Designer (Special Education/Literacy): Develop specialized educational materials, curricula, or online learning modules tailored for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning difficulties for educational publishers, technology companies, or school districts.
Adjunct Instructor/Clinical Supervisor (University Programs): Graduates with extensive clinical experience and strong academic performance may teach in university dyslexia therapy or special education programs, or supervise practicum students, training the next generation of therapists.
Advocate for Individuals with Dyslexia: Work with dyslexia associations, parent groups, or policy organizations to raise awareness, promote research, and advocate for improved educational services and legal protections for individuals with dyslexia at local, state, and national levels.
