Overview
This innovative graduate program is the first of its kind in Michigan to offer an expedited pathway to both a Master’s degree in special education and initial teacher certification. Developed by WMU’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. It is designed for individuals seeking initial teaching licensure in special education. 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.
Candidates in the Expedited track of the Master of Arts in Special Education Clinical Teacher must hold a Bachelor's degree in any area and wish to pursue initial teacher certification in K-12 special education. Candidates will be prepared for work in a variety of special education classroom settings serving Kindergarten through 12th grade students, as well as post-secondary special education settings. Candidates choose between one of three endorsement areas– autism spectrum disorder, emotional impairments or learning disabilities. Upon successful completion of all program requirements and passing the relevant Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (MTTCs), students are eligible for a Michigan Standard teaching certificate in their chosen endorsement area.
All coursework is held online in a partially synchronous format. Synchronous class sessions are held in the evenings to accommodate candidates who are already working full time in the schools. Candidates are able to complete field work in school districts across the state of Michigan.
On average, candidates complete this program in 20 months.
Note: When applying, select "Online" and choose "Special Education: Clinical Teaching – MA" as your intended program.
