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Master of Education in Special Education

Important Note to Spring, Summer, and Fall 2010 Applicants: MEd in Special Education program will no longer result in teacher licensure. Read more about this change.

The Master of Education Degree (M.Ed.) program in Special Education (SPED) prepares educators who are specialists in teaching students with disabilities. Students in the M.Ed. program select a program track, at the preschool/elementary or secondary level:

  • Mild/Moderate Disabilities program is for those who desire to teach students with high incidence disabilities (e.g., learning disabilities, ADHD, mild/moderate mental retardation or emotional disturbance).
  • Severe Disabilities/Autism program is for those who desire to teach students with low incidence disabilities (e.g., severe mental retardation, autism, multiple impairments). Find out more about the Autism Specialist emphasis within the Severe disabilities track.

The M.Ed. program includes courses in the professional core and major emphasis as well as field experience.

  • Professional core and major emphasis courses are held in the evenings from 4:30-7:00pm.
  • Field Experiences usually require a minimum of nine (9) hours per week.
  • Students are required to take SPED 626 Field Experiences in Special Education course at least twice.
  • SPED 627 Advanced Practicum requires a minimum of 20 hours per week during one semester.
  • Students may take SPED 628 Internship in Special Education as a two consecutive semester internship while working for the Hawaii State Department of Education as a special education teacher.

Important Note to Applicants: Spring, Summer, and Fall 2010

The M.Ed. in Special Education program is undergoing substantial changes. When approved, the M.Ed. in Special Education program will no longer result in eligibility for teacher licensure.  Therefore, applicants for 2010 admission should apply to the Post Baccalaureate in Special Education (PB-SPED) program in spring or fall 2010 if teacher licensure is desired.

Applicants should apply to the M.Ed. in Special Education program who:

  • (a) are already licensed in special education, or
  • (b) wish to work in non-classroom-based services/settings for persons with disabilities, or
  • (c) wish to engage in a graduate course of study to meet individualized educational objectives in the field of special education.

For more information please contact Dr. Pat Edelen-Smith in the Department of Special Education at pates@hawaii.edu or 956-5598.

Interdisciplinary MEd

The Interdisciplinary M.Ed. program in Special Education is designed for graduate students who do not seek special education licensure because they are already licensed in special education or they work in other human service areas that serve individuals with disabilities.

Tuition Stipends

Tuition stipends may be available to participants. Click on the link to find out more information about the Special Education Tuition Stipends.