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Master of Arts

Special Education

Advance Your Education Career Through Research

The Department of Teaching and Learning offers a Master of Arts in Education with a programmatic focus on special education. This degree helps students develop research and inquiry skills in education and leadership. Located at WSU Vancouver, this program is designed for students who may pursue a doctoral degree or who want to focus on educational research.

This degree differs from the Master of Education program, which emphasizes the application of educational research in school settings and requires a special project. In contrast, the Master of Arts degree requires a thesis. Students take research, foundation and core courses on campus or at other sites, while many special education endorsement courses are available in a flexible online format.

Program Overview

The degree requires a thesis and focuses heavily on educational research. Many special education endorsement courses are offered online without a designated weekly meeting time, while other courses meet on campus. A classroom-based practicum is also required for the endorsement.

If you have a disability that requires special materials, services or assistance, contact the Access Center at 360-546-9238 or van.access.center@wsu.edu as soon as possible to discuss your specific needs.

Admission Requirements

Admission to this program is selective. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

A minimum 3.0 GPA
Verification of prior certification as a teacher or education staff associate

A selection committee made up of faculty from the Department of Teaching and Learning reviews and approves all application materials.

Application Process

To apply, complete the initial Graduate School Application. After submitting, applicants must obtain a Departmental Application Portfolio for the Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in Special Education from the Academic Coordinator.

To request the portfolio or learn more about the program, contact the Academic Coordinator at van.education@wsu.edu or 360-546-9075. You may also contact Michael Dunn, associate professor of special education and literacy, at dunnmi@wsu.edu or 360-546-9662.

B.A. & MIT (Elementary/Secondary)

Education Academic Coordinator

van.education@wsu.edu

(360) 546-9673

Certifications, M.A., Ed.M & Ed.D

Education Academic Coordinator

van.education@wsu.edu

(360) 546-9075

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Plan Your Special Education Degree

Review your research interests, thesis goals, and required special education endorsement courses with an academic advisor. Your advisor will help you map out your core research courses, coordinate your classroom-based practicum, and keep you on a clear path toward graduation.

Schedule an Advising Appointment