Maryland is located in the Mid-Atlantic United States. It is one of the smallest states by area but is also the most densely populated in the nation. It is also known by the nickname “America in Miniature” for its varied topography representing so many other regions in North America.
Maryland boasts the highest median income per household and is the wealthiest state in the country. It is also rich in educational opportunities with several historic and prominent colleges and universities offering state-of-art master’s degree programs in education.
Note: Those interested in distance learning programs should consult our recommendations for Online Master’s in Special Education.
Coppin State University, MD
School of Education
Coppin State University has been educating teachers since 1900. Founded as a teacher’s college, the University has evolved into a technology-driven institution with an expanded curriculum incorporating research, professional development and community service.
The School of Education is fully accredited through the NCATE and offers master’s degree programs in Adult and General Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Health and Human Performance and Special Education.
Master of Education in Special Education (M.Ed.)
The Master of Education in Special Education degree program is designed to prepare students to teach children (grades K-8) with mild to moderate disabilities. Academic coursework emphasizes critical thinking, special education theory and an understanding of disabled children in a diverse population. Two tracks are available: Track 1 is for students holding a baccalaureate degree and certification in regular education or other fields; and Track 2 is for those individuals who have completed a degree program and hold certification in special education.
Core competencies in both tracks include: Special education theory, supervisory skills and instructional practices, behavior modification techniques, communication skills, assessment methods, curriculum design and functional living techniques.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Contact Information
500 West North Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21216-3698
(410) 951-3082
education@coppin.edu
Frostburg State University, MD
College of Education
The College of Education at Frostburg State University has a rich history of preparing professional educators for leadership roles in a diverse and global community. In addition to preparing teachers in their field of study, the College of Education is committed to instilling a sense of advocacy among all graduates for their students, community, clients and profession.
Master of Education degree programs are available in Administration and Supervision, School Counseling, Reading, Special Education, Curriculum and Instruction, and Interdisciplinary. The College of Education also offers a
Master of Arts in Teaching as well as certification programs career advancement or specialization.
Master of Education in Special Education (M.Ed.) (K-12)
The Master of Education in Special Education degree program is an eligibility program for certified teachers for the preparation of special education positions. Concentration areas include teaching children and youth (grades K-12) with mild/moderate disabilities in individualized general education classroom settings.
Program objectives for graduates include: Diagnosis of educational difficulties, individualized program design, teaching techniques for mild/moderate exceptionalities, act as an inclusion resource teacher.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Contact Information
Framptom Hall, Room 203-5
101 Braddock Road
Frostburg, Maryland 21532-2303
(301) 687-4357
http://www.frostburg.edu/colleges/coe/contact.html
Hood College, MD
The Graduate School/Department of Education
Hood College has been ranked in the top tier “Best Regional Universities in the North” by U.S. News & World Reports 2014 edition. The Department of Education provides the theory, technology and support needed to prepare competent teaching professionals to work in a diverse society.
Post-baccalaureate teacher education programs are offered in early childhood education, elementary/special education, secondary education and art education – all leading to certification. In addition, Master of Science degrees are available in Curriculum and Instruction for elementary, secondary and special education.
Dual Certificate Program in Elementary & Special Education (1-8)
The post-baccalaureate dual certification program in Elementary (grades 1-6) and Special Education (grades 1-8) leads to an initial Maryland teaching certification. Students must already hold a bachelor’s degree in another program. This fully accredited program includes a strenuous coursework curriculum and one-year of student teaching internship in a Professional Development School. Two teaching experiences are required – one in elementary education and one in special education.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Contact Information
Joseph Henry Apple Resource Center
3rd Floor
401 Rosemont Avenue
Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 696-3600
Hoodgrad@hood.edu
http://www.hood.edu/graduate/
Loyola University Maryland, MD
School of Education
The School of Education at Loyola University Maryland is committed to academic excellence and working collaboratively with local schools. All students enrolled in a teaching program are required to complete an internship at a Professional Development School (PDS). Schools participating in this program meet criteria established by the School of Education where students receive mentoring opportunities from experienced teachers. In addition, Loyola University Maryland is focused on “caring for the whole person” by ensuring that student education aligns with professional and individual goals.
Master of Education in Special Education, Elementary-Middle (1-8)
The Master of Education in Special Education with concentration in Elementary-Middle program is designed to provide initial Maryland teaching certification and advanced professional training. The graduate-level curriculum will provide knowledge for serving special needs children and adolescents (grades 1-8).
With an emphasis on providing effective services to children and youth with high-incidence disabilities, this program gives students the tools to be leaders in their field. Disabilities addressed include emotional/behavioral disorders, ADHD, learning or language disabilities, and mild mental retardation. All programs at Loyola University Maryland are structured for adult graduate students to provide flexibility for working professionals with numerous commitments. In addition to coursework, a PDS student teaching internship is required for graduation.
Master of Education in Special Education, Secondary (6-12)
Graduate students may choose a second program concentration in Secondary Education with a Master of Education in Special Education. The program curriculum is similar to the Elementary-Middle concentration but geared toward special needs children and adolescents (grades 6-12). The program is structured to teach children and youth with learning disabilities, high-functioning autism, ADHD, behavior disorders and traumatic brain injury.
The program may be used for initial certification in generic special education and advanced professional growth. Coursework and practicum field experiences are required for graduation.
Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Special Education (B-12)
The Certificate of Advanced Study with a concentration in Special Education requires 30-credit hours to qualify for certification. Students are skilled to teach children and youth from preschool through high school level who exhibit educational and physical disabilities including auditory and visual impairments.
Learning outcomes include: Classroom arrangement to facilitate creative play and motor skill development, verbal and non-verbal communication, collaboration techniques for consultation with parents, guardians and other professionals, educational lesson plan development, strategic development instruction, improve sensory and perceptual motor skills. Graduates will also be capable of teaching basic academic and life processes to disabled or impaired children and youth.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Maryland State Department of Education
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Contact Information
4501 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21210
(410) 617-5095
http://www.loyola.edu/soe.aspx
McDaniel College, MD
Department of Education
The Department of Education at McDaniel College is committed to preparing knowledgeable educators who are ready to teach to a diverse and technological society. A variety of master’s degree programs are available for initial certification as well as specialization. Concentrations in elementary, middle, secondary and special education are all offered. With a goal of matching instruction to a student’s strengths and abilities, graduate students at McDaniel College are poised for success as educational professionals.
Master of Science in Special Education (M.S.) (K-12)
The Master of Science in Special Education degree is designed for students to achieve advanced certification in special education for children and youth (grades K-12). All students entering the program must hold a provisional certification in elementary or secondary education. Areas of specialty include both elementary and secondary education for high-incidence and low-incidence exceptionalities.
Learning outcomes through coursework and student teaching internship at a Professional Development School (PDS) include: Human growth and development, history, legal descriptions and education interventions for exceptionalities, instructional strategies for teaching in a special education environment, diagnostic and assessment methods for exceptional students.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Maryland State Department of Education
Contact Information
2 College Hill
Westminster, Maryland 21157
(410) 848-7000
http://www.mcdaniel.edu/academics/graduate-professional-studies/special-education-ms
Mount St. Mary’s University, MD
School of Education and Human Services
Mount St. Mary’s University is highly acclaimed for exceptional education in numerous publications. They have been named as one of the 25 Best Universities in Regional Universities-North Division and ranked #4 for Best Colleges for Veterans in the North Region by U.S. News and World Report. In addition, Mount St. Mary’s University is the only Maryland college included on the Catholic Colleges of Distinction.
The School of Education and Human Services provides students with a wide variety of innovative learning experiences for outstanding preparation as an educator.
Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary/Special Education (M.A.T.) (1-8)
The Master of Arts in Teaching degree qualifies graduates to apply for initial Maryland teaching certification in both elementary education for grades 1-6 and special education in grades 1-8. A total of 55 credit hours of coursework and field experience are required for this graduate program. Teacher internships must be completed at a Professional Development School.
Anticipated competencies upon completion of the program include: Assessment and intervention techniques in special education, research and trends in education, theory and development, integrated curriculum for mathematics, science and reading, design and adaptation of curriculum, and inclusive classroom management.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Contact Information
Emmitsburg Campus
16300 Old Emmitsburg Road
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
(301) 447-6122
Frederick Campus
5350 Spectrum Drive
Frederick, MD 21703
(301) 682-8315
https://msmary.edu/academics/schools-divisions/school-of-education/index.html
Notre Dame of Maryland University, MD
School of Education
Notre Dame of Maryland University has been educating teachers for more than 100 years. As the college of choice for Maryland teacher certification, the School of Education takes this responsibility very seriously. The SOE offers unique opportunities for experienced teachers with Accelerated Certification in Teaching and a 10-month Master of Arts program. Flexible programs in convenient off-campus locations assist working professionals and adult learners with multiple responsibilities to advance their careers and education.
Master of Arts in Leadership in Special Education – Exceptionalities (M.A.)
The Master of Arts in Leadership in Special Education – Exceptionalities degree provides professionals with advanced study opportunities to develop essential competencies pertaining to diverse learners at elementary and secondary school levels.
Coursework includes instruction on educational research, leadership skills, theory and practice of learning, supervisory methods, legalities related to teachers and administrators, behavior management and technology instruction.
Special education courses are all taken in an online format and focus on issues specific to children and youth with exceptionalities in an inclusive setting: Dealing with harassment, bullying and cyber threats, understanding and modification techniques for aggressive behavior, ADHD/ADD, autism,Talented and Gifted Children and Youth.
Master of Arts in Teaching with Concentration in Special Education (M.A.T.) (PreK-6; 6-Adult)
The Master of Arts in Teaching degree provides several flexible programs for concentration in special education. This graduate program can be completed in 15-months of full-time study, two years of part-time study or and accelerated 10-month fast-track degree. All three M.A.T. series allow students to earn certification and a master’s degree concurrently. In addition to coursework, students must complete a one-year internship in a special education setting. The 10-month accelerated program is ideal for career-changers who are able to commit to full-time study.
Both tracks prepare teachers to instruct mild/moderate disabilities at preschool, elementary, secondary and adult age groups. Teachers at secondary and adult levels in an inclusive setting will assist students in transitioning and vocational skills.
Post-Baccalaureate Accelerated Certification in Teaching with Concentration in Special Education (PreK-6; 6-Adult)
The Accelerated Certification in Teaching with concentration in special education is a non-degree, post-baccalaureate program. It is designed specifically for professionals who are currently teaching but are seeking certification or changing careers to become certified teachers.
Special education endorsement includes training for mild/moderate disabilities for children and youth (ages PreK-6; 6-Adult). This concentration incorporates skills for learning and behavior disorders, ADHD, high-functioning autism and other exceptionalities. Techniques and learning outcomes prepare students for curriculum development and adaption, assessment and intervention methods, inclusive classroom management, learning theory and transition methods.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Contact Information
4701 North Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21210
(410) 435-0100
http://www.ndm.edu/colleges-schools/school-education
The Johns Hopkins University, MD
School of Education
The Johns Hopkins University School of Education has been preparing educators for over 100 years. Founded in 1909, the SOE addresses offers graduate programs focused on overcoming today’s educational challenges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Johns Hopkins University among the top 10 graduate schools of education.
Degree programs are available for Master of Arts in Teaching and Master of Science in Special Education, Counseling, Education, Educational Studies and Health Professions.
Master of Science in Special Education – Severe Disabilities (M.S.) (B-12)
The Master of Science in Special Education with concentration in Severe Disabilities is a graduate degree program prepares individuals for a teaching career in specialized instruction. The curriculum includes instructional planning, medical and physical aspects of learning, cognition and language development, communication methods including motor, hearing and vision, and independent living skills.
Graduates are eligible for special education certification in Maryland for severe and profound disabilities.
Master of Science in Special Education – Mild and Moderate Disabilities, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary (M.S.)
The Master of Science in Special Education degree program is designed for students seeking their initial teacher certification with a concentration in mild and moderate disabilities. The full-time program requires 39-credit hours of instruction for children and youth (grades K-12) with learning disabilities, emotional disabilities and mild intellectual disabilities.
This graduate program prepares students to teach in urban environments and provides skills in behavior management, assessment techniques, decision-making processes and collaborative discussion among general and special educators.
Master of Science in Early Childhood Special Education (MSDE Certification)
The Master of Science in Early Childhood Special Education degree program offers initial teacher certification for infant/primary level mild/moderate disabilities. A minimum of 39-credit hours of coursework and field experience are required. Teachers are prepared to work with infants, preschoolers and children (grades 1-3) through early intervention services.
Learning outcomes include: legal competence, child development for typical and atypical students, assessment techniques, curriculum and instruction, and collaborative methods. The program also requires two internships of 120-150 hours of service prior to graduation.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Maryland State Department of Education
Contact Information
2800 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
1-800-GO-TO-JHU
http://education.jhu.edu/
Towson University, MD
College of Education
The College of Education at Towson University prepares teachers for careers in schools as teachers and administrators and other industries such as government, private companies, military, correctional institutions and other fields.
Master of Arts in Teaching and Master of Education degree programs are available in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Reading, Secondary Education and Special Education.
Master of Arts in Teaching: Special Education (MAT)
The Master of Arts in Teaching with concentration in special education is available for students without formal educational training who wish to enter the teaching profession or change careers. Programs of study include instruction for mild/moderate disabilities such as learning and behavioral disabilities, high-functioning autism and other exceptionalities. The special education track requires coursework and an internship at a Professional Development School for certification.
Master of Education: Special Education (M.Ed.)
The Master of Education with concentration in special education is a degree program in a high-demand field. With a shortage of special education teachers nationwide, Towson University’s College of Education is focused on addressing the urgent community needs in this field. Emphasis is placed on effective instruction, assessment techniques, collaboration and consultation, and cross-categorical approaches. This program does not lead to initial teacher certification.
Elementary Education – Special Education (EESE)
The Elementary Education – Special Education undergraduate program is designed to integrate both areas in preparation for a career as an elementary teacher or elementary/middle special education teacher. This concentration gives students an opportunity to learn best-practice skills for teaching mild to moderate special needs children at the elementary level.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Contact Information
8000 York Road
Towson, MD 21252
(410) 704-2000
http://www.towson.edu/coe/
University of Maryland College Park, MD
College of Education
The College of Education at the University of Maryland College Park is a research facility providing quality programs through three specialized departments. Master’s degree programs are available in Teaching, Policy and Leadership, Counseling, Learning, Higher Education and Special Education.
Master of Education: Special Education (M.Ed.)
There are special education options available for the Master of Education degree program at University of Maryland College Park. Each program is fully accredited and structured for instruction of special needs children and adolescents at various ages: Early Childhood (Infant-grade 3), Elementary-Middle (1-8) and Adolescence (6-12). Each program focuses on autism, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, ADHD/ADD, physical disabilities and other exceptionalities. All program graduates are eligible for a special education endorsement.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Maryland State Department of Education
Contact Information
3119 Benjamin Building
College Park, MD 20742
(301) 405-2334
http://www.education.umd.edu/
University of Maryland Eastern Shore, MD
School of Arts and Professions/Department of Education
The School of Arts and Professions/Department of Education at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore is committed to advance education and related careers through the development of knowledgeable instructional leaders. By offering graduate-level programs in high-demand fields, the Department strives to prepare skilled educators dedicated to life-long learning.
Master of Education: Special Education (M.Ed.) (1-8; 6-12)
The graduate program with emphasis on Special Education is designed to develop skills as classroom teachers in alternative education settings. The Master of Education program focuses on teaching students with mild and moderate disabilities (grades 1-12). Certification is broken down into age groups 1-8 and 6-12. Graduates may choose one age group or both for certification in special education.
Accreditations
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Contact Information
2021 Hazel Hall
Princess Anne, MD 21853
(410) 651-2200
http://www.umes.edu/SAP/Default.aspx?ID=18422
