M.A.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction – Special Education

Coursework prepares future special educators to become skilled instructional leaders through advanced study in collaboration, literacy instruction and positive behavior supports. Students learn to apply the Science of Reading, assess literacy development and design evidence-based interventions that meet the diverse needs of learners with disabilities. The program also emphasizes effective collaboration with families, educators and service providers, while developing classroom management and positive behavior strategies that foster inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.

Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the program, allowing students to connect coursework with classroom practice across elementary, middle, and high school settings. During the fall semester, candidates complete a minimum of 60 hours of supervised fieldwork in local schools, where they develop instructional skills, work directly with students, and learn alongside experienced educators. These experiences culminate in two 15-week, full-time student teaching placements, one at the elementary level and one at the secondary level, as part of the program’s K–12 licensure pathway. Through these immersive capstone experiences, students apply evidence-based instructional practices, deepen their understanding of diverse learners and build the confidence and professional expertise needed to lead their own classrooms.

Students in our M.A.Ed. program must successfully complete the 36 hours with a minimum grade of B- in these courses: CRIN X51, CRI X52 & CRIN X56.

Additionally, in order to meet VDOE licensure requirements, they must complete the Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition and Intervention Training, the VDOE Dyslexia Module, Understanding the Regulations Governing the Use of Restraint & Seclusion, Cultural Competency Training and CPR & First Aid Training. They must also pass the Praxis Teaching Elementary Reading test.

Students who successfully complete our Special Education program will be eligible to apply for licensure in Special Education General Curriculum K-12 in the state of Virginia.Learn more about applying for licensure.

100% of our graduates are employed upon graduation, many with multiple offers. They take positions as special education teachers in inclusive classrooms, as well as resource and self-contained classrooms. Many of our graduates are recognized for their teaching excellence through Rookie of the Year, Teacher of Year or other award programs.

Many of our graduates move into school-level and district-level leadership positions including instructional specialists, behavior specialists and administrative roles.

Application materials include your unofficial transcript(s), personal statements, a resume/CV, and two recommendations. We encourage prospective students to begin an application, as the portal provides a clear overview of all application requirements, including the personal statement prompt.

Looking for the application deadline? See our Deadlines & Decisions page.

Students may apply for federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA. If you have questions about your financial aid package, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@wm.edu.

All applicants are automatically considered for available scholarships, and recipients will be notified directly if selected for an award.

Because of the program’s required fieldwork, assistantships are not typically available for students in the Special Education program.

Teachers in Residence

Some students participate in residency agreements with partnering school districts offer paid opportunities that allow candidates to complete their practicum and student teaching experiences while earning compensation. Learn more on our Teachers in Residence page.