Major (08081) Academic Plan Code (332503MAS)
The Master of Arts degree in special education provides the professional educator with advanced knowledge and skills in special education. This degree has many requirements in common with the Education Specialist Clear/Induction Credentials in Special Education and may be earned concurrently with those credentials. The M.A. degree in Special Education can be earned in the following areas: behavior analysis and autism, early childhood, mild/moderate support needs, extensive support needs, and school to adult transition. All programs must be approved by the graduate adviser. Although the M.A. degree is usually linked to a teaching credential, it is open to individuals with undergraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines in consultation with the graduate adviser.
To receive the Master of Arts in Special Education, students must complete 30-31 units. Courses common to all concentrations areED 690 , SPED 681A or SPED 681B , SPED 527 , SPED 530 , ED 799A and SPED 685 (Plan A option), or ED 795A and ED 795B (Plan B option).
In general, applicants will be programmed for Plan B, the seminar plan. After the student is approximately halfway through the program, has secured an adviser, and established a thesis plan, permission to transfer to Plan A may be requested. Plan A is designed for students who have a particular research problem they wish to investigate in some detail. Requests for transfer to Plan A must be prepared as an official change in the program for the master’s degree, countersigned by the faculty adviser, and submitted to the Office of Graduate Programs in the College of Education.
Candidates for the Master of Arts degree in special education who elect Plan B must pass the comprehensive examination.
Consult the Graduate advisor about potential credit for other 500-700 level courses you have taken.
