M.A. in Special Education Alternate Route

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Applicants should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• A minimum overall percentage of 80-82 or its equivalent is typically required for admission.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 79 is often required.

3.  Score reporting required.

Mississippi State University (MSU) recognizes the importance of providing financial assistance to international students to help them pursue their higher education goals. The university offers a variety of scholarships to support the academic achievements and contributions of international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, diversity, and leadership. 

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic merit. This scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable based on maintaining a specified GPA.

2. International Student Scholarships: MSU offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships consider factors such as academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the campus community. Award amounts and eligibility criteria may vary.

3. Intensive English Institute (IEI) Scholarships: MSU's IEI offers scholarships to international students who enroll in English language programs. These scholarships help students improve their English language skills before pursuing their academic studies at the university.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at MSU offer scholarships to international students who are pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are often based on academic performance, research interests, and involvement in departmental activities.

5. Cultural Exchange Scholarships: MSU encourages cultural exchange by offering scholarships to international students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships promote diversity and foster a global learning environment on campus.

6. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants, which can come with a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience.

7. External Scholarships: MSU provides information and guidance to international students seeking external scholarships, grants, or funding opportunities offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations.

Application Process: The application process for scholarships at MSU may vary depending on the scholarship program. Generally, students need to complete their application for admission to the university before they can be considered for scholarships. Some scholarships may require additional essays, letters of recommendation, or a statement of purpose.

Deadlines: Scholarship application deadlines vary and are often aligned with the university's admission application deadlines.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Special Education Alternate Route program at Mississippi State University (MSU) prepares individuals for rewarding careers in special education. Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with disabilities.  

1. Special Education Teacher: The most common career path for program graduates is becoming a special education teacher. They are qualified to work in public and private schools, serving students with diverse learning needs. Special education teachers create individualized education plans (IEPs), adapt curriculum, and provide tailored support to help students succeed academically and socially.

2. Inclusion Specialist: Inclusion specialists work in schools to ensure that students with disabilities are fully integrated into mainstream classrooms. They collaborate with general education teachers and provide strategies to support the inclusion of students with special needs.

3. Resource Teacher: Some graduates choose to work as resource teachers, focusing on providing additional support and instruction to students with disabilities in separate settings or resource rooms within a school.

4. Behavior Intervention Specialist: Behavior intervention specialists help students with challenging behaviors by developing and implementing behavior management plans. They work closely with students, parents, and teachers to create a positive and supportive learning environment.

5. Educational Consultant: Graduates with advanced knowledge in special education can work as educational consultants. They may provide guidance to schools and districts on best practices in special education, assist in program development, and conduct professional development workshops for educators.

6. IEP Coordinator: IEP coordinators are responsible for managing the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to ensure that students receive appropriate services and accommodations.

7. Case Manager: Case managers work with families, students, and schools to coordinate services and resources for students with disabilities. They may also assist in accessing community resources and support programs.

8. Advocate for Individuals with Disabilities: Some graduates choose advocacy roles, working with organizations that support individuals with disabilities. They advocate for policy changes, access to services, and improved educational opportunities.

9. Nonprofit Organizations: Graduates can find opportunities in nonprofit organizations that focus on disabilities. These roles may involve program development, fundraising, and advocacy work.

10. Research and Policy: Those interested in research and policy can pursue roles in academia, government agencies, or research institutions. They may contribute to research on special education best practices or participate in shaping policies related to disabilities.

11. Advanced Degrees: Graduates can pursue advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. in special education or related fields. This can open doors to positions in academia, research, and leadership roles in special education.

12. Entrepreneurship: Some graduates choose to start their own businesses or consultancies specializing in special education services, tutoring, or assistive technology.

13. Continual Growth: The field of special education is continuously evolving. Graduates are encouraged to engage in professional development and stay current with research and best practices to enhance their career prospects.