Special Education (Non-Certification Track), M.S.

Overview and Mission

Neumann University’s graduate program in Special Education is consistent with, and driven by, the University’s Mission Statement.  This program prepares candidates to teach in a variety of special education settings supporting learners with intellectual, physical, cognitive, and/or behavioral exceptionalities.

Program Design and Outcomes

Successful graduates of Neumann University’s Special Education Program will be able to :

• Demonstrate knowledge and competence in the areas of academic, social, and emotional growth, and methods to use that knowledge to maximize a student’s capabilities.
• Utilize research-based effective instructional strategies and diagnostic tools
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of child development and appropriate diagnostic and instructionally adaptive strategies for all learners
• Competently apply appropriate instructional practices to meet the diverse needs of all students.

Admission Requirements

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited, are eligible for entrance to the Special Education Program, subject to the approval of the Program Director.  Acceptance is on a competitive basis after submission of all credentials and an interview with the Program Director.  All applicants must submit the following:

• A completed Graduate Student Application, in print or online through www.neumann.edu/apply.
• Official transcripts from each regionally accredited, degree-granting institution attended.
• Letter of intent which outlines why you wish to pursue the degree and certification.
• Names and telephone numbers of two professional references.
• Security clearances that meet current state-approved teaching requirements.

Once all admission materials have been received and processed through the Office of Admissions, the graduate Program Director will arrange for an interview, following a review of all candidate credentials.

Nine graduate credits from a regionally accredited institution may be transferred into the program with the approval of the School Dean.

Note: This program does not lead to any certification. For those seeking certification should apply for the Special Education certification program.

Progression/Retention/Graduation Requirements

For the Master of Science in Education in Special Education, continued progress requires that the student maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in the required courses and satisfactory participation in the program. Completion of all degree requirements for the program is not to exceed five years. Exemption to this time limitation must be applied for in a written request to the School Dean. Graduation from the program is contingent upon (1) submitting a signed Application for Graduation form to the Registrar on or before the date specified in the Academic Calendar; and (2) successful completion of all course work, including field experience. The student must maintain an overall “B” average (cumulative 3.00 GPA) in all required courses, with no more than two grades of “C” level work. If the student’s GPA falls below a 3.0, the student will be put on probation. The student will have one semester to bring his/her GPA up above a 3.0. If this does not occur, the student will be dismissed from the program.

Field Experience

Field experiences are required for several courses within this program. Students must obtain and submit with admissions material all security clearances that meet current state-approved teaching requirements. For current security clearance requirements, contact the Field Experience Coordinator.