Overview
The Master of Arts in Special Education K–12 is designed for students who already hold a Michigan Standard teaching certificate and wish to earn their first K–12 special education endorsement. Students choose from one of two endorsement areas: K–12 Learning Disabilities or K–12 Emotional Impairments.
Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed in 20 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.
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 Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC), graduates are eligible for 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.
