Master of Arts (M.A.)
Special Education with a focus on Autism and Neurodiverse Learners
Program Highlights & Benefits
Fully online synchronous format combines interactive real time learning with the convenience of online delivery
2 year completion time, including breaks
Cohort model helps facilitate supportive and collaborative learning
Workload designed for full time professional educators
Goals and Focus of the Program
The Master of Arts in Special Education with Graduate Certificate in Autism and Neurodiverse Learners program focuses on special education theory and strength-based practice grounded in the latest research. Candidates will develop knowledge and skills to support Neurodiverse learners in inclusive classrooms. Coursework focuses on diverse learning, social-emotional, mental health and behavioral needs of children with autism and other neurodiverse learners. Interactive, synchronous classes develop knowledge and skills in inclusive instructional classroom strategies for behavioral intervention, communication and technology, and mental health support for children with autism and related learning profiles as collaborative members of interdisciplinary teams. The program builds techniques for strengthening systems of support through effective communication and collaboration with parents, families, community providers.
Program Design
The Master of Arts in Special Education with a focus on Autism and Neurodiverse Learners program follows a cohort instructional model with a fully online synchronous delivery structure. Eight-week courses include weekly contact with cohort members and instructors, small and larger group activities, and collaborative problem solving within the four hour class period. Online class sessions meet virtually from 4:45 PM – 8:45 PM on the same night of the week during this scheduled class time. The duration of the program is approximately two years.
Prerequisites
Students in the Master of Arts in Special Education with a focus on Autism and Neurodiverse Learners program must have a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and access to a classroom and students throughout the duration of the program to fulfill field study requirements. Parents and related service professionals are invited to participate in the program.
Degree Requirements and Career Outcome
The degree requirements for this program are successful completion of the program’s respective courses (listed below) and completion of a capstone project as a university requirement, which is embedded within the coursework. Upon completion of this program, students will have earned a Master of Arts degree in Special Education. This is not a licensure or endorsement program, but students who complete the program will be eligible for a University of Saint Joseph Graduate Certificate in Autism and Neurodiverse Learners.
Plan of Study
| Course | Title | Hours | ||
SPEC 560 | Introduction to Autism and Neurodiverse Learners | 3 | ||
| SPEC 561 | Behavioral Interventions | 3 | ||
| SPEC 562 | Communication and Technology for Neurodiverse Learners | 3 | ||
| SPEC 565 | Supporting Mental Health Needs of Neurodiverse Learners | 3 | ||
SPEC 564 | Application of Instructional Strategies for Neurodiverse Learners | 3 | ||
| SPEC 544 | The Science of Social-Emotional Learning | 3 | ||
| SPEC 541 | Creating Effective Systems of Support | 3 | ||
| SPEC 590 | Special Topics | 3 | ||
| SPEC 596 | Practicum | 3 | ||
| SPEC 530 | Research in Special Education* | 3 | ||
| Total Credit Hours: | 30 | |||
Please Note:
*Master’s Capstone Project Included
The courses for this program may be offered in a different order. This list should not be considered the finalized course sequence.
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