Special Education
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Admissions Contact
Graduate Admissions Are you an International Student? |
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Program Contact
Eileen Cyr The Office of Educator Prep and Licensure can help answer your teaching license questions. |
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Curriculum and Delivery
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Start Date and Duration
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Already have your Master's Degree?
Looking for post-graduate programs? Explore our Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Special Education |
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The MEd in Educational Studies: Special Education at Springfield College prepares teachers to work effectively with students with mild and moderate disabilities. The program offers a combination of courses that lead to the initial license as a Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities (TSMD). With courses available in the late afternoon or early evenings, this flexible program is ideal for teachers who wish to complete their degree in one to two years and teach students with mild to moderate disabilities in grades PreK-8 or 5-12.
Because students are participating in the field placement while taking the academic courses, students are able to use these practical experiences to deepen their understanding of the skills and responsibilities of the teacher of students with moderate disabilities.
A special emphasis is placed on: Reading and Language Arts instruction; Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks; assessment of physical, social, emotional, intellectual and social development of children and adolescents; educational terminology for students with mild and moderate disabilities; preparation, implementation and evaluation of Individualized Education Programs; design and modification of curriculum, instructional materials, and educational environments for students with moderate disabilities; behavior management and transitional assistance for students with mild and moderate disabilities; services provided by other agencies and federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to special education.
Already working in the Springfield Public Schools? Apply for the S-Cubed program, a partnership between the Springfield Public Schools and Springfield College, and earn your degree for less!
What job can I get with a master's degree in Special Education?
A master's degree in Special Education from Springfield College opens up a variety of fulfilling and impactful career opportunities. Graduates often become special education teachers, working in schools to support students with diverse learning needs and help them achieve their full potential. You might also pursue roles as inclusion specialists, collaborating with teachers and staff to create inclusive classroom environments that benefit all students.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Special education teachers work with students from preschool to high school. They instruct students who have mental, emotional, physical, or learning disabilities. For example, some help students develop study skills, such as highlighting text and using flashcards. Others work with students who have physical disabilities and may use a wheelchair or other adaptive devices. Still others work with students who have sensory disabilities, such as visual or hearing impairments. They also may work with those who have autism spectrum disorders or emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Instructional coordinators, also known as curriculum specialists, evaluate the effectiveness of curriculums and teaching techniques established by school boards, states, or federal regulations. They observe teachers in the classroom, review student test data, and discuss the curriculum with the school staff. Based on their research, they may recommend changes in curriculums to the school board.
How to Apply:
Education Requirements
- Each course has a field-based component (this is usually 15-20 hours a week in a school).
- A transcript review of undergraduate and any prior graduate work is required prior to admission.
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the online application: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials and instructions for submitting supplemental materials as listed below.
- Essay: In two to three double-spaced pages, please describe significant life experiences that have contributed to your interest in your field, your understanding of this field, your occupational objectives, and why you have chosen Springfield College.
- Resume: Please include any college activities, out-of-school leadership experiences, work history, and community involvement to support your interest in or qualifications for graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member or direct supervisor: Recommenders will receive an email when you submit your application and will be able to upload your letter to your application.
- Transcripts: An official transcript from each college/university you have attended is required. In order to be considered official, transcripts must be received directly from the original source, by email to graduate@springfield.edu or mailed to the college address:
Springfield College
Office of Graduate Admissions
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109
International Applicants
- $100 non-refundable International Application fee
In addition to the above admissions requirements, all international applicants from non-English-speaking countries are required to submit:
- Proof of English language proficiency by way of the TOEFL or IELTS: Other tests may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to our language requirements for more information on acceptable tests, minimum scores, exemptions, and conditional acceptance. If your undergraduate degree was earned in the United States and you successfully completed college-level English, we will consider English language proficiency met.
- Please note: Transcripts must be in English. If the transcript is not in English you will be required to submit a professional credential evaluation completed by any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). For this we recommend SpanTran, with its customized portal for Springfield College applicants. World Education Services or Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. are also recommended for your credential evaluations.
The Office of International Admissions can assist you with questions you may have about enrolling at Springfield College as an international student by emailing intladmissions@springfieldcollege.edu.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.
International Students:
Fall Start
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: May 1
Spring Start
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: October 1
Summer Start
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: February 1
