MS in Special Education

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Kansas State University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Special Education prepares educators to support students with disabilities through specialized instruction, inclusive teaching practices and evidence-based educational strategies. The 30-credit graduate program offers two specialization areas—High Incidence Special Education and Low Incidence Special Education—preparing licensed teachers to address diverse learning needs in elementary and secondary education.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students build foundational knowledge through courses such as EDSP 711 – Characteristics of Exceptionalities, EDSP 742 – Intensive Interventions for Students with Emotional Disability, and EDSP 743 – Intensive Interventions for Students with Dyscalculia and Other Math Difficulties. They develop skills in identifying learning needs, educational assessment and individualized instructional planning.

Year 2: Students advance their expertise through specialization coursework, including EDSP 421 – Intensive Interventions for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, EDSP 429 – Instructional Strategies for Students with Low-Incidence Disabilities, and EDSP 886 – Seminar in Special Education. Practical preparation includes supervised practica, a teaching portfolio and a culminating experience.

Note: The university does not publish a fixed two-year course sequence; this is an indicative organization of the curriculum.

Focus Areas

High-incidence disabilities, low-incidence disabilities, inclusive education, behavioural interventions, individualized instruction, special education assessment, elementary and secondary education, teacher development.

Learning Outcomes

Design individualized learning programmes, assess students with disabilities, implement evidence-based teaching strategies, manage classroom behaviour, support diverse learning needs, develop inclusive classrooms, collaborate with families and professionals, evaluate educational progress.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The specialization coursework is approved by the Kansas State Board of Education (KSBE) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), as stated in the university catalog. Successful completion can lead to Kansas Special Education endorsement for candidates holding a valid Kansas teaching licence.

Reputation (Employability)

Kansas State University's College of Education offers graduate-level teacher preparation through specialized coursework, practicum experiences and teaching portfolios. The program is available at the Manhattan campus and online.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kansas State University, the MS in Special Education program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills in the field. Students engage in a variety of experiential learning opportunities that prepare them to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. The program emphasizes real-world applications through internships, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MS Special Education program:

- Internships: Students complete field experiences in various educational settings, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts and gain valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in special education.

- Collaborative Projects: The program encourages teamwork through group projects that simulate real-life scenarios, fostering collaboration and communication skills essential for educators.

- Digital Tools: Students have access to specialized software and digital resources that enhance learning and teaching strategies, including assistive technology tools that support diverse learners.

- Research Laboratories: The university provides dedicated spaces for research, where students can engage in projects that contribute to the field of special education and explore innovative practices.

- Field Trips: The program includes opportunities for field trips to local schools and organizations, allowing students to observe and interact with professionals in the field and gain firsthand experience.

- Libraries and Resources: K-State's libraries offer extensive collections of educational materials, research journals, and resources specifically focused on special education, supporting students in their academic pursuits.

- Institute for Disability Studies: The university hosts an institute dedicated to research and advocacy in disability studies, providing students with additional resources and networking opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Science in Special Education at Kansas State University opens the door to a rewarding career dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs. Graduates of this program often find themselves in fulfilling roles such as Special Education Teacher, Educational Consultant, Behavior Analyst, or Program Coordinator. The skills and knowledge gained here will empower you to advocate for and support students effectively:

- Career Services: K-State offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs specifically tailored for education majors, ensuring you are well-prepared to enter the job market.
- Employment Statistics: The demand for special education professionals is on the rise, with a reported employment rate of over 90% for graduates in this field. The average salary for special education teachers in Kansas is around $55,000, with potential for higher earnings in specialized roles.
- University-Industry Partnerships: K-State has established partnerships with local school districts and educational organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value and meets high educational standards.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates report high levels of satisfaction with their education and career readiness, with many securing positions shortly after graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS in Special Education, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in Special Education. These advanced degrees can lead to roles in academia, research, or higher administrative positions within educational institutions, allowing you to influence policy and practice on a broader scale.