Applying to the M.Ed. in Exceptional Children and Youth
Admission decisions are made by the full-time faculty in Special Education. Students will be admitted to the program based upon enrollment availability and evidence that they meet or exceed the following minimum recommended entrance requirements:
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
- An undergraduate cumulative grade index of 3.0 or higher.
- A graduate cumulative grade index of at least 3.5 if graduate courses were taken.
- For students whose native language is not English, an officially reported TOEFL test score of at least 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100 (Internet-based).
- Applicants with no prior teaching certification must submit an official copy of Praxis I scores as part of their application.
- Three letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors.
- A personal statement of career objectives and interests. If the applicant plans to pursue initial teacher certification in addition to the degree, this must be stated.
- A writing sample on an important topic in the field of special education. In this writing sample, the applicant should address one of the following questions in a brief essay of 500 words or less:
- Select an important problem facing individuals with disabilities or the schools, teachers, parents, or other people who work with them and propose a solution to this problem.
- Describe an experience in your own life that influenced your decision to work with individuals with disabilities.
