Special Education, M.S.

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(30 UNITS)

The Master of Science in Special Education prepares graduate students to critically analyze and evaluate empirically based research; theoretical constructs and philosophical foundations; and historical, psychological and sociological issues related to the education of individuals with disabilities. It focuses on analysis and interpretations of policy as related to curriculum, pedagogy and methodology. Specific emphasis is offered in the areas of Early Childhood Special Education, Collaborative-Consultation, Mild/Moderate Disabilities and Moderate/Severe Disabilities.

Admission to Graduate Standing - Conditionally Classified

Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions section in this catalog for complete information. In addition, applicants must have earned a grade-point average of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester units attempted.

Graduate Standing - Classified

A student who meets the admission requirements and the following requirements may be granted classified graduate standing:

Grade-point average of 3.0 or better in all previous academic and related work
An approved major
Completion of SPED 371
Satisfactory interview and autobiography
Development of a study plan approved by the Special Education Department’s graduate program adviser and the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs (Graduate Studies Office)

Degree Requirements

Required (21 units)

Electives (3 units)

Culminating Experience (6 units)

The culminating experience marks the end of a graduate program. It demonstrates mastery of disciplinary materials and meets requirements from Section 40510 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations. Please consult the Culminating Experience section in this catalog for more information.