Overview
The Expedited Master of Arts in Special Education K–12 is designed for students with a Bachelors degree in any area who wish to earn initial teaching certification. Students choose from one of two endorsement areas: K–12 Learning Disabilities or K–12 Emotional Impairments.
Designed for working professionals, all coursework is delivered online in a partially synchronous format. Synchronous online class sessions are held in the evenings to provide flexibility for students employed full time in schools and other educational settings. The program can be completed in 20 months. Students progress through the program as part of a cohort model, fostering meaningful connections with faculty and peers, while providing a structured and efficient path to degree completion.
Field experiences are completed in school districts and educational settings throughout Michigan, allowing students to apply their learning in authentic professional environments while remaining in their local communities.
Through a clinically focused curriculum, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to effectively assess, instruct, and support students with disabilities across a variety of K–12 educational settings. Coursework emphasizes:
- Special education law, policy, and ethical practice
- Assessment and data-based decision making
- Academic instruction and intervention
- Positive behavior supports and classroom management
- Individualized Education Program (IEP) development and implementation
- Collaboration with families, educators, and community partners
- Transition planning for students with disabilities
Graduates are prepared for roles such as teacher of students with EI or teacher of students with LD (depending on endorsement area focus), special education teacher, resource room teacher, inclusion specialist, and behavior support teacher in public schools, intermediate school districts, and specialized educational programs. Upon successful completion of all program requirements and the relevant Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (MTTCs), graduates are eligible for initial teacher certification and a Michigan Standard teaching endorsement in their chosen disability area.
Note: When applying, select "Main Campus (Kalamazoo)" and choose "Special Education K-12 – MA" as your intended program.
