Special Education Concentration Information

The goal of the Graduate Program in Special Education is to prepare competent and caring professionals who are able to make connections and create meaning in all aspects of their work. Students become familiar with the contexts and systems within which children and youth with disabilities are educated. They gain knowledge of learning and development throughout the life span. They acquire the broad and varied content knowledge that anyone working in Special Education must possess and they learn to build and maintain collaborative relationships with families, students and others. Practicum experiences within the special education courses require diagnostic teaching of individual students, working with families of students with disabilities, collaborating with other adults and taking on the responsibilities of a special educator for a school year. Hallmarks of the program are the case study approach, the strong emphasis on practicum experiences, and the training in collaboration.

Master of Education or Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies programs are designed to lead to Vermont teacher licensure or endorsement as Special Educator. Students may also design a M.Ed. or a C.A.G.S. program with a concentration in general special education.  Students may choose 18 credits in Special Education or may add the additional endorsement.  After the Special Educator license, students may also pursue an additional endorsement for Consulting Teacher.  A Master’s is required for this endorsement.

C.A.G.S. Coursework

This thirty credit certificate is designed in conjunction with the advisor and may include coursework for an additional endorsement as a Special Educator or a Consulting Teacher.