Overview

The Master of Arts in Special Education Master Teacher Behavior Intervention Specialist program is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced preparation in positive behavior interventions and supports. Candidates include general and special education teachers, principals, school psychologists, school social workers, speech pathologists, or other ancillary school staff. This program does not lead to a Michigan teaching or school-based credential. 

Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed in 16 months. All coursework is delivered online in a partially synchronous format, with evening class sessions that provide flexibility for students employed full time in schools and other educational settings. 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. 

The field experience course can be 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 expand their knowledge and skills in positive behavior interventions and supports through coursework that emphasizes:

• Principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and their application in the schools
• School-wide positive behavior supports (SW-PBIS)
• Intensive interventions for challenging behavior 
• Coaching 
• Legal issues in special education 
• Universal design for learning 
• Culturally-responsive practices in special education
• Research methods & a final capstone project

Graduates’ skillset can be applied in a wide range of school-based roles, including but not limited to, teacher, administrator, behavior support staff, and consultant in public schools, intermediate school districts, and specialized educational programs. 

Note: When applying select “Online” and choose “Special Education: Master Teacher– MA” as your intended program.