Online Special Education Master’s Program

            The Department of Special Education & Communication Disorders at Valdosta State University has developed an online initial certification master's program for special education. This program would result in initial certification and a Master’s degree in Special Education. Candidates can take coursework for initial certification in one of the following areas:

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 general curriculum p-12

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 adapted curriculum p-12

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deaf education p-12 track.

General Requirements for Admission:

bulletBachelor's Degree from an accredited institution
bulletPassing score or exemption on Praxis I/GACE I
bullet2.5 minimum grade point average
bulletCriminal Background Check (can be done at VSU or through employing school district)
bulletProfessional liability Insurance
bulletAcceptance into the VSU Graduate School (application deadline for each year is July 15)
bulletMust be employed in a classroom with students with disabilities or be able to spend 20 hours/ week in a classroom for the duration of the program
bulletCandidates must have basic computer skills and access to a viable computer to take these classes Minimum Recommended Hardware

Description of Degree:  36 credit hours

bulletcoursework is completely online
bulletsupervision and observation of teaching are incorporated into every class through videotape/videoconferencing
bulletTwo classes are offered each semester and summer, taking approximately 2 full years (fall, spring, summer)

Requirements: recommendation for certification

In order to be recommended for initial certification, applicants must complete the on-line masters degree and have documentation of the following:

*      Passing Scores on Praxis I/Gace I or exemption (GRE 1030 or above)

*      Passing Scores on Praxis II/GACE II

*      Field Experience across grade levels (preK-12th), advisor will work with candidate to complete this requirement

If you have questions you can contact:

Dr. Karla Hull

Head Department of Special Education & Communication Disorders

khull@valdosta.edu

333-5932