Advanced Education | Master of Science: Special Education (Low Incidence)
Not all students have the same abilities, and some need assistance to overcome developmental challenges. The Low-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 Low-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
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | ||
| AEP 803 | Educational Research | 3 |
| SPED 801 | Legal/Professional Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 802 | Theories of Exceptionalities and Diversity | 3 |
| SPED 804 | Behavior Management in Schools/Practicum | 3 |
| SPED 808 | Assessment in Low Incidence Special Education Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 823 | Autism Spectrum Disorder and Leadership | 3 |
| SPED 824 | Strategies for Leaders and Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder | 3 |
| SPED 842 | Educational Strategies in Low Incidence | 3 |
| SPED 849 | Practicum in Low Incidence Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 860 | Transition in SPED: Early Childhood to Adulthood | 3 |
| SPED 867 | Collab & Consultation in Special Education | 3 |
| Directed Electives | 3 | |
| Select three credit hours from the following: | ||
| Innovative Technology Integration | ||
| 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 | ||
| Assessment in Autism | ||
| Masters Degree Comprehensive Examination/Assessment | ||
| Total Hours | 36 | |
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 – low 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 low 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
- Applications are available on the Special Education Programs Residency Program-Low Incidence website
- Do not apply to Graduate School until your application has been approved.
Contact Information
If you are interested in learning more about the Limited Residency Program, 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.