M.Ed. in Special Education: Deaf & Hard of Hearing (48 Credits)
Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) are in high demand worldwide. Many programs do not focus on the combined needs of being deaf or hard of hearing and having a disability.
This unique program prepares educators to understand, apply relevant research from multiple fields, and ultimately teach students who are deaf and/or hard of hearing in today’s schools.
Preparation is done through extensive coursework in Deaf history and culture, applied ASL in classroom settings, assistive and augmentative technologies, inclusive education philosophy and practice, and the positive impact of Deaf culture on hearing societies. Those seeking an initial license in Special Education Deaf and Hard of Hearing (PreK-12), who meet the licensure program requirements, follow the Initial Licensure program of study.
Prerequisite for Initial Licensure: Passing score on the Communication and Literacy MTEL. To meet the licensure program requirements, students must successfully complete all of the required MTELs, coursework and fieldwork. Students are required to pass all required MTELs prior to enroling in the practicum.
Program Features Include:
- 48-credit program
- Personalized advisement
- Learn to design high quality instruction, including authentic and meaningful student assessments
- Analyze student performance and growth data and to use this data to improve instruction and practice
- Teach all students through instructional practices that establish high expectations, a safe and effective classroom environment, and cultural proficiency.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Demonstrate how to apply knowledge of child and adolescent development and the specific needs of DHH students.
- Design high quality instruction, including authentic and meaningful student assessments.
- Analyze student performance and growth data with a focus on individualized goals and use data to improve instruction.
- Choose appropriate instructional practices that establish high expectations and a safe and effective classroom environment.
- Promote student learning and growth through outreach and collaboration with families, caregivers, community members, and organizations.
- Establish and refine an ethical, culturally proficient (inclusive of Deaf culture), skilled, and collaborative practice.
