Special Education, M.A.

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The Vermont State master’s program in Special Education provides you with multiple pathways to becoming a special education teacher. The program offers two options for licensed teachers to add the endorsement, one online and one that includes some online courses and some in-person courses, and a third option for initial licensure. No matter what option you pursue, the Special Education graduate program will enhance your foundational knowledge, professional practice, and expertise in the discipline.

You’ll study theoretical, practical, and social justice models of current special education philosophy and practices, with an emphasis on field-based practicum and internship experiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to implement your learning in authentic settings and solidify the connection between research and practice.

An interdisciplinary curriculum in education and a mixture of online and practicum experiences in local schools near you provide comprehensive preparation for career changers looking to become a teacher online.

Reach out with Questions

Sara Connolly

Senior Assistant Director of Admissions

802.626.6207

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Robert Schulze

Associate Professor

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Why Get a Master’s in Special Education at Vermont State?

  • High Demand: Teachers are in high demand in Vermont and across the country, especially in Special Education. Our students frequently find themselves in discussions with one of their practicum sites regarding full-time employment after graduation. High Impact: Studying at Vermont State will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make an immediate and lasting impact on your students and communities.  
  • Practical Experience: Our courses are designed to immerse you in the field, so you can gain practical experience.  
  • Strengths-Based Focus: Guide your students to develop wellbeing and empathy through the strengths-based and inclusive approach to learning taught at Vermont State. 
  • Flexibility: The program is designed for part-time enrollment so you can study while working full-time, or full-time enrollment to complete more quickly. For the online option, all courses are online to increase access and avoid excessive travel in difficult weather conditions. Participants in the initial licensure option may complete the licensure portion of the program first to seek a teaching position, then complete the remaining coursework for the master’s degree over time. Our Placement Office will help you locate a local school for practicum and internship experiences. 

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Sample Courses

  • Educational Studies
  • Partnering with the Adolescent Learner
  • Promoting Inventive Thinking: Integrating Multimodal Literacy Across the Curriculum
  • Implementing Content-Specific Methods in a Secondary Classroom
  • Characteristics & Development of Diverse Learners

Meet Our Faculty

Associate Professor

  • Castleton Campus

Monica McEnerny

Associate Professor

  • Castleton Campus

Dean, Graduate Programs

  • Johnson Campus

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Faculty

  • Johnson Campus

Associate Professor

  • Johnson Campus

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Department Chair/Professor

  • Castleton Campus

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Assistant Professor

  • Lyndon Campus

Professor/Licensure Officer

  • Castleton Campus

Assistant Professor of Special Education, Program Director for ECSE

  • Castleton Campus

Ready to Take the Next Step?