Minnesota, commonly known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, is located in the Midwestern portion of the United States. It is among the healthiest states and also the most literate.
Education is a top priority for leaders of the state and they have been rewarded for their efforts with up to a 90 percent graduation rate among high school seniors. Institutions of higher education offer many master’s degree programs in education and other specializations.
Note: Those interested in distance learning programs should consult our recommendations for Online Master’s in Special Education.
Capella University, MN
School of Education
Capella University’s School of Education provides flexible scheduling with a 100 percent online format. Course rooms are established for students and faculty to meet for discussion and weekly assignments are completed based on the student’s own timetable. All degree programs are fully accredited through the NCATE and meet the high standards required in today’s challenging education system.
Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Special Education Leadership Specialization (PhD) (P-12)
As part of the Professional Education Unit, Capella’s online specialization in Special Education Leadership prepares students for a career in P-12 special education administration. Nationally recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children, this doctorate program also provides a foundation in special education law, finance and instructional strategies.
Career opportunities for graduates include: School supervisory positions of psychologist or speech and language services, special education director, manager of mental health services, university faculty member or grant coordinator.
Master of Science in Education: Special Education Teaching Specialization (M.S.) (EC-12)
The Special Education Teaching Specialization master’s degree program provides the tools needed to teach early childhood through grade 12 children/youth with learning disabilities. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for real-life classroom challenges by following current special education strategies, techniques and practices.
Special education teacher, consultant or supervisor positions are open to graduates of this degree program. Strategies for promoting learning among special needs individuals and effective collaboration with families and other professionals are some of the learning outcomes of this program.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teachers (NCATE)
The Higher Learning Commission
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Contact Information
225 S 6th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(612) 339-8650
http://www.capella.edu/online-p-12-education-degrees/
Walden University, MN
The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership
The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership at Walden University was named for the former Secretary of the United States Department of Education. The College is delivered completely online but meets the thorough standards established by the NCATE for professional teacher preparation.
Numerous graduate-level degree programs are available in a variety of educational specializations – from post-baccalaureate teaching certifications to doctorate degrees. The College is dedicated to encourage educational leaders to pursue positive social change globally.
Master of Arts in Teaching: Special Education (M.A.T.) (K-Age 21)
The Master of Arts in Teaching with concentration in Special Education is an online degree program. With features such as virtual field experiences, research-based learning, best-practice video coaching and a flexible course schedule, adult learners are guided to a successful career as a teaching professional.
The graduate program offers two special education tracks: Learning Disabilities and Emotional/Behavioral Disorders. Each is dedicated to providing the best possible learning environment for individuals with exceptionalities to achieve their fullest potential. Children and young adults from kindergarten through age 21 with developmental cognitive disorders, autism, health disabilities, mild to moderate learning disabilities, and emotional and behavioral disorders are the focus of these specializations.
Graduates of this teacher preparation program are eligible for Minnesota licensure with a Special Education endorsement.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teachers (NCATE)
Contact Information
100 Washington Avenue South, Suite 900
Minneapolis, MN 55401
1-866-492-5336
http://www.waldenu.edu/colleges-schools/riley-college-of-education
