Special Education
Introduction
Our department offers programs in General Curriculum, Adapted Curriculum, Birth through Kindergarten, and Applied Behavior Analysis. We provide multiple degree options, as well as certificate and endorsement programs. Students gain hands-on experience through a variety of clinical and field-based opportunities.
Our work addresses the needs of children and families with a wide range of experiences and needs in the areas of autism, assistance to persons who are deaf-blind, early intervention, learning disabilities, behavioral disabilities, technology, and literacy development, among other areas.
Our nationally recognized faculty lead large instructional, research, and service grants that drive innovation in special education. Together with exceptional students and strong collaborative partnerships, these efforts keep our program among the top-ranked and most respected in the country.
Degree Programs
Double Dawgs
Combined Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
- BSEd in Special Education (Adapted Curriculum) / MEd in Special Education (Adapted Curriculum - Autism)
Through this Double Dawgs pathway, you will receive an advanced degree in special education-adapted curriculum and be eligible for certification in special education in adapted curriculum.
- BSEd in Special Education (General Curriculum) / MEd in Special Education (General Curriculum, Non-Thesis)
Through this Double Dawgs pathway, you will receive an advanced degree in special education-general curriculum and be eligible for certification in special education in general curriculum.
- BSEd in Special Education (Adapted Curriculum) / MEd in Special Education (Birth Through Kindergarten with Endorsement in Preschool Special Education)
Through this Double Dawgs pathway, you will receive an advanced degree in special education-birth through kindergarten and a preschool special education endorsement to support the needs of infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their families.
Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd)
- BSEd in Special Education (Adapted Curriculum and Autism)
Adapted curriculum prepares you to teach students with low-incidence disabilities in grades preschool through 12th grade.
- BSEd in Special Education (General Curriculum)
General curriculum prepares you to teach students with high-incidence disabilities in grades preschool through 12th grade.
- BSEd in Special Education – General Curriculum (Online)
This online program in general curriculum prepares you to teach students with high-incidence disabilities in grades preschool through 12th grade.
- BSEd in Special Education (Educational Studies)
Educational Studies prepares you for career options that support individuals with disabilities. This program does not lead to certification eligibility.
Minors
Master of Education (MEd)
- MEd in Special Education (Adapted Curriculum and Autism)
- MEd in Special Education (Birth Through Kindergarten/Preschool Special Education, Online)
- MEd in Special Education - General Curriculum (Online)
The M.Ed. in Special Education is for students entering the master’s program who have completed undergraduate training in a teacher education field and who have a teaching certificate. Choose from one of three areas of emphasis.
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
- MAT in Special Education (Birth Through Kindergarten/Preschool Special Education, Online)
- MAT in Special Education - Adapted Curriculum and Autism (Online)
- MAT in Special Education (General Curriculum, Online)
The MAT in Special Education leads to initial certification for students who hold undergraduate degrees in other fields and who do not hold a teaching certification. Choose from one of three areas of emphasis.
Master of Arts (MA)
- MA in Education (Special Education)
The MA Education-Special Education program is generally pursued by those who want to pursue an EdS or PhD. This is the only one of our master’s level degrees that requires a thesis. This program of study is focused on applied research and evidence-based instruction and provides students the opportunity to participate in mentored research, completing a master’s thesis.
Educational Specialist (EdS)
- EdS in Education (Special Education)
Pursue advanced studies in special education in one of five emphasis areas through our educational specialist program, tailored to your background and goals.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- PhD in Special Education
The PhD in Special Education provides students with core and tailored coursework in evidenced-based practices, research, and college teaching/supervision in preparation for careers in academic, research, and clinical settings.
Non-Degree Programs
Certificate Programs
- Certificate in Dyslexia (Online)
The Certificate in Dyslexia parallels the Dyslexia Endorsement program but is designed for teachers, clinicians, researchers, or other interested individuals who reside outside of Georgia or who do not currently have nor will seek professional licensure from Georgia’s Professional Standards Committee.
Endorsement/Certificate Programs
- Dyslexia Endorsement and Certificate
The 15-hour online Dyslexia Endorsement provides teachers, clinicians, and specialists with specific knowledge related to reading and language development.
- Preschool Special Education Endorsement and Certificate
The special education preschool endorsement is a three-course sequence (9 semester hours) with applied field experiences.