Program Overview

This program prepares candidates to effectively teach students with disabilities in a variety of settings and to effectively manage the classroom by developing the ability to adjust teaching practices according to individual student needs. The program features highly trained faculty who value interaction with candidates, robust clinical components and field placement opportunities, and content that is directly applicable to the K-12 classroom setting.

Why Study Special Education at Grand Valley?

• Grand Valley's M.Ed. in special education received the highest level of national recognition from the Council for Exceptional Children.
• Leadership and professional engagement along with networking opportunities are available through the Graduate Student Association and The Graduate School.
• Faculty members, with extensive experience, support and encourage success among students as educators in their academic endeavors at Grand Valley and later in their careers.
• Flexible classes offered evenings, weekends, online/hybrid, and during summer make it easier for working adults to plan their schedules.
• Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.

Accreditation

Grand Valley State University's College of Education and Community Innovation is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association (NCA). The faculty are leaders in their fields, melding together the philosophy of education and your needs as a practitioner.

Location & Format

Classes for the program are a combination of online and in-seat on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

• Hybrid

Coursework

The Special Education master's degree is 36 credit hours of coursework. Candidates can choose from one of the following emphasis areas: autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairment, or learning disabilities. Classes are offered in the evening, on weekends, during the spring/summer semester, and online, making scheduling easier for teachers. All students will study a variety of subjects including:

• Evidence-based instructional practices
• Assessment practices
• Multi-tiered system of supports
• Instructional and assistive technology
• Positive behavior intervention and supports
• Transition practices

Career Options

The outlook for special education teachers in Michigan and beyond is very positive. Special education teaching positions are considered a critical shortage area by the U.S. Department of Education.

Application Deadline

Deadline for fall semester is July 15; winter, November 15; spring/summer, March 15. Early application is strongly encouraged to secure course enrollment. Those applications received after the deadline will be considered on an individual basis and program availability. Late applicants should contact program director Monica Harris, [email protected] The $30 nonrefundable application fee is waived if you have previously applied to GVSU.

Admission Requirements

• The Education programs have rolling admissions deadlines to ensure maximum flexibility for our applicants
• Up to 9 credit hours can be transferred from other institutions (many institutions only allow up to 6 transfer credits)
• Enrollment begins in mid-March for the following academic year to give students additional time to plan
• GVSU allows you up to 8 years to complete your graduate program (more time than most other institutions)
• You must submit an official transcript from your baccalaureate degree granting institution

Visit the Education page for criteria and procedures.

Helpful Links

• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Tuition & Fees
• The Graduate School
• Education, Special Education Programs
• Education, General Programs

For More Information

gvsu.edu/education/grad
401 Fulton Street West, Building C
[email protected]
(616) 331-6650

gvsu.edu/gradapply

Joe Fisher, Ph.D.
(616) 331-6189