Why choose Special Education at USF? (pdf)

The M.A. in Special Education is designed for elementary and special education teachers. The aim of the program is to support the professional development of teachers for the future. Teachers, with exceptional abilities, can dynamically meet the educational needs of students in an ever-changing learning context.

We support the development of understanding and practice where teachers are confident, competent and collaborative. In order for this to happen, a special educator must be an agent of change and we encourage teachers who manage the change process in themselves and others, have strong pedagogic knowledge, strategically develop service provisions, and understand models of change and implications for schools and classroom application.

We appreciate the busy demands on teachers in today’s society and because of this have developed the program to be as flexible as possible. We have a mixture of online and classroom modes of teaching and learning that will support teacher’s ability to manage their own learning schedule more effectively.

The Cohort
This program is designed as a cohort program beginning each fall semester. This allows students to take courses together in a planned sequence. Cohorts facilitate optimum learning and timely completion of the program. Such structure also allows students to form a strong network with fellow students.

Spring and summer admissions may be considered on an individual basis. Pre-requisite courses must be completed prior to starting the fall cohort.

Program Completion
Special Education undergraduate majors complete the M.A. in 36 credit hours over five semesters by completing 9 credits per semester; other undergraduate majors may need to complete up to 45 credit hours.

Coursework to achieve Florida State endorsement in severe disabilities and in autism may also be taken. Contact Cari Barber for details.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY:
TEACH Grant Program (Federal)

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year to students who intend to teach in a public or private elementary or secondary school that serves students from low-income families.