Master of Arts - Teaching - Education Specialist - Moderate to Severe Teaching Credential

The Master of Arts in Teaching with Education Specialist Extensive Support Needs Teaching Credential blends a teaching credential program with a Master of Arts in Teaching. The Master of Arts Teaching program focuses on inquiry-based education which includes hands-on instruction with problem-based learning and issues-centered curriculum and a focus on reflection during the teaching and research process. The program foundation rests in social justice and equity in education for all children and youth, including those with disabilities, and their families.

The ESN Teaching Credential provides candidates with applied experiences through coursework which is competency based, connecting theory to practice. Teacher candidates have supervised field experiences every semester in which they work closely with mentor teachers to develop individualized program plans for students; conduct assessments and develop instructional plans; design modifications and adaptations for participation in the core curriculum; collaborate with general education teachers, and related service providers; and engage their students’ family members in the educational process. Placements are carefully planned in order to make sure candidates experience a wide range of student abilities and challenges as well as a range of age groups. The teacher preparation coursework focuses on preparing effective teachers for working with diverse student populations with an emphasis on preparing socially just teachers and leaders for systems change, committed to equity and inclusion in culturally and linguistically diverse schools and communities.

Throughout the Master of Arts Teaching program, candidates will learn how to critically examine evidence-based practices, policy issues, and current research on teaching and learning in the field of special education. They will be expected to apply analytical skills to develop and implement standards-based curriculum in diverse settings using best instructional and inclusive practices that positively impact the learning of all students, including English Learners and children and youth with disabilities. Candidates also will conduct original teacher action research using practice-based methods in diverse educational settings. The materials and associated activities presented in the Master of Arts Teaching coursework are highly integrated to support them with successful completion of the Master of Arts in Teaching degree at the end of the program.