Special Education and Literacy Studies

Expedited Special Education with Initial Teaching Certification, MA

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Overview

This innovative master’s program is the first of its kind in Michigan to offer an accelerated 18-month pathway to both a master’s degree in Special Education and initial teacher certification. Designed for individuals seeking their first teaching license, the program includes a special education endorsement in one of three high-demand areas: autism spectrum disorder, emotional impairments, or learning disabilities. Developed by Western’s College of Education and Human Development in response to the urgent statewide need for qualified special educators, this program makes the profession more accessible to aspiring teachers from diverse backgrounds and career paths. Students benefit from a clinically focused curriculum that blends coursework with hands-on field experience, preparing them to meet the complex needs of today’s K–12 learners.

Note: When applying, select "Online" and choose "Special Education: Clinical Teaching – MA" as your intended program.

Meet Isabel

A master's student studying early childhood education and Founder and Director of Mi Casa es su Casa Bilingual Family Daycare.

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Why apply?

State certification & endorsement: Earn Michigan certification with an endorsement in ASD, EI, or LD.
Funding opportunities: Graduate assistantships, scholarships, and residency stipends available.
Cohort-based learning: Move through the program with a supportive group of peers.
Career outcomes: 96% of graduates are employed in the field shortly after graduation.
Nationally ranked: Top 100 public Graduate School of Education.

Who should apply?

Aspiring teachers who currently hold a bachelor’s degree and are seeking their initial teaching certification with a desire to work with students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional impairments (EI), or learning disabilities (LD).

Program of Study

This section provides a general overview of the types of courses and content areas you can expect in this program. While specific courses will not be listed here, a link to the official course catalog will be provided for detailed course information. This section will also outline key program requirements, such as internships, capstone projects, or other experiential components.

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Industry highlights

In the 2023-24 WMU Post-Graduation Activity Report, 93% of the Department of Special Education and Literacy Studies graduate degree recipients were actively engaged, full-time in the teaching area they were endorsed in.

Cost & funding

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the program fit into 18 months?

Students enroll in courses during fall, spring, and both summer sessions

Regular semesters are 15 weeks; summer sessions are 8 weeks (May–August)

Students typically take 6 credits per semester, including field experience

All courses are offered online with both live and self-paced options

What credits can transfer?

Transfer credits are reviewed case-by-case.
Generally, courses must have been taken within the past 5 years.
For transcript reviews, contact Dr. Sarah Summy: sarah.summy@wmich.edu

Can I apply if I already have a teaching or early childhood certification?

Yes! The program welcomes anyone with a bachelor's degree, including current certified educators looking to add special education endorsement.

Is field experience or intern teaching required?

Yes, two field experiences are required:

Part-time placement during the second half of summer (designed to fit around your schedule)

Full-time, 15-week final internship (often completed in your current classroom if applicable)

We partner with approved districts to arrange placements and work around current employment

Is there a thesis requirement?

No thesis is required.
Students complete a school-based capstone project instead.

Does funding from the Urban Education Grant count as income (for FAFSA)?

Grant funding and FAFSA implications vary by individual circumstances. Please consult the financial aid office for guidance specific to your situation.

How do I apply?

Click the apply now button at the top of this page.
Select “Special Education: Clinical Teaching – MA” as your program.
Complete and submit your application—faculty are notified as soon as it's submitted.