MsEd, Special Education With Specialization In Autism

Program Overview

The MSED in Special Education with an Autism Specialization at St. Thomas Aquinas College prepares educators to teach students with special needs in inclusive and self-contained settings, with a focus on students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The program emphasizes collaboration, positive behavioral support, and the assessment and measurement of academic progress. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles and can choose to focus on either elementary or secondary education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Education (MSED) in Special Education with an Autism Specialization at St. Thomas Aquinas College is designed to prepare educators to teach students with special needs in inclusive settings and serve as lead teachers in self-contained classrooms for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and multiple disabilities. The program aims to:

• Equip graduates with advanced training to work with students with special needs, with an emphasis on Autism.
• Provide students with the knowledge and skills to:
• Collaborate meaningfully with parents and other educators.
• Provide positive behavioral support.
• Identify learning needs.
• Measure academic progress.
• Enable graduates to make significant contributions to the field through specialization and a range of leadership roles in special education.

Teaching:

• The program is taught by faculty with decades of combined experience in the field of education and research, including faculty with specialized expertise in Autism.
• These faculty members serve as supportive mentors who guide students through their academic journey.

Other:

• Students can choose to focus on either Grades 1-6 or Grades 7-12.
• The program is a 36-credit graduate program.
• The program is designed to be comprehensive, providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in a variety of special education settings.
• St. Thomas Aquinas College also offers master's programs in Special Education and Literacy.