Academic Catalog

Advanced Education | Master of Science: Special Education (High Incidence)

Not all students have the same abilities, and some need assistance to overcome developmental challenges. The High-Incidence Special Education Master of Science program concentrates on the practical needs and challenges faced by today's educators of special needs students. Here are a few points about this graduate degree program:

  • The M.S. in High-Incidence Special Education is a 36-credit-hour program.
  • You will participate in an online learning environment, which means you can complete this program from wherever you live and work - there are no on-campus requirements.
  • Students typically complete their degree in 18-24 months.
  • While there are admission requirements, you do not have to complete an entrance exam.
  • Technology is infused throughout the curriculum.
  • Coursework has been designed to promote reflection and critical thinking.
  • You will discover authentic learning experiences with real-life applications.
  • The program focuses on action research, best practices, and a case study approach to learning.
  • The degree is accredited by both KSDE and CAEP and is aligned with the state standards.

Designed with your need for flexibility, convenience and educational quality in mind, this program's intensive coursework and personalized faculty mentorship give you the tools you need to succeed in your online classroom as well as in your career.

Our Program is for adding an endorsement in Special Education to an existing initial teaching license.  

Program Requirements

Core Courses
AEP 803Educational Research3
SPED 801Legal/Professional Issues in Special Education3
SPED 802Theories of Exceptionalities and Diversity3
SPED 804Behavior Management in Schools/Practicum3
SPED 805Assessment and Lab in Special Education3
SPED 806Methods and Materials for Exceptional Students3
SPED 832Teaching Reading in Special Education3
SPED 860Transition in SPED: Early Childhood to Adulthood3
SPED 867Collab & Consultation in Special Education3
SPED 822Strategies in High Incidence SPED/Practicum3
or SPED 839 Practicum in Special Education II
Directed Electives
Select six credit hours from the following:6
Educational Leadership
Curriculum and Evaluation of PK-12 Schools
Fostering Engagement in Today's Learners
Instructional Design and Assessment
Cultural Diversity
Technology in Special Education
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Leadership
Strategies for Leaders and Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Assessment in Autism
Masters Degree Comprehensive Examination/Assessment
Total Hours36

Graduate School Graduation Requirements

All Graduate degrees1 require:

  • Maintain a C or higher in all coursework.
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. (Refer to program)
  • A minimum of 30-75 hours of Graduate course work. (Refer to program)
  • Comprehensive Examination or equivalent assessment is required. (Master of Liberal Studies requires a Comprehensive Examination and Concentration Exam)
  • Degree completion within 8 years.
1

Refer to degree program for any additional requirements.

Limited Residency Program (formerly known as Limited Apprentice License)

FHSU also offers an alternative pathway to traditional special education licensure. The limited residency program is a two- or three-year M.S. program for individuals who desire to become special education – high incidence teachers, but do not have a degree in education.  For more information, please see Licensure Disclosure

Admission Requirements

  • Candidates must be selected by a school district to be hired as the teacher of record in a high incidence special education classroom in Kansas
  • Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree (from an accredited university) with a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the most recent 60 hours of coursework
  • Candidates must have at least one year of work experience as a paraprofessional

Applications

Contact Information

If you are interested in learning more about the Limited Apprentice License, please contact Dr. Jerrie Brooks at jlbrooks8@fhsu.edu

Please consult with your academic advisor for guidance in course planning.

Academic Degree Maps are term-by-term sample course plans that specify milestones, courses, and special requirements that are necessary for facilitating on-time completion. Degree Maps are examples and are not prescriptive. Individualized choices such as concentration options, transfer credits, optional minors, advisory programs (certificates), etc. can alter the recommended coursework. Course offerings are subject to change. Students should consult with their academic advisors for additional guidance on course planning.

To determine courses to take in the directed choices (often listed as Program Elective Course) and directed elective course blocks see the overview tab for courses. To locate approved courses in General Education areas (Undergraduate Programs) see the general education section of the catalog.

The undergraduate course maps typically advise the most efficient route for students to complete the general education requirements. Courses that are required in the major may be listed as fulfilling relevant general education requirements. This will result in more open elective course hours in some maps than is listed on the degree overview page.