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Special Education Curriculum and Course Descriptions

The online Master's degree in Special Education curriculum at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is built on the latest research to help you connect with every learner in your classroom, including those with special needs. Through Saint Mary's University's innovative iPad app, these classes are convenient to take and designed with your career goals in mind.

The M.A. in Special Education is a 36-credit hour program. The program includes core courses complemented by classes covering disability specific electives and graduate-level research strategies. For learners who live and work in Minnesota pursuing additional or initial licensure additional credits, testing, and field placement/student teaching will be required.

Click the course names below for more details:

Core Courses

EDSE600 – Orientation (0 credits)

Orientation introduces students to the tools, technology, policies and expectations for the Master of Arts in Special Education program. The delivery approach, instructional methods and use of technology are reviewed. Program expectations are discussed, including APA style for written academic work, practicum parameters and placement. Orientation is a requirement prior to beginning the program.

EDSE631 – Foundations of Special Education (3 credits)

This course evaluates the fundamental, philosophical and organizational history of learners with exceptionalities. Content includes current issues and trends in the field of special education, organizational structures, available service and placement options, disability classifications, stereotypes of individuals with exceptionalities, and ethical considerations regarding special education.
Prerequisite: EDSE 600

EDSE607 – Literacy Development & Interventions (3 credits)

This course addresses both normal and atypical development in reading, spelling, and writing. Interventions for students having instructional and/or behavioral difficulties in the regular classroom; diagnostic and intervention strategies for accelerating literacy growth, and scientifically-based programs for literacy instruction are covered.

EDSE636 – Assessment and Evaluation of Learners with Exceptionalities (3 credits)

This course provides an in-depth study of theoretical principles of measurement, assessment, and evaluation procedures to determine special education eligibility and identify needs for implementation of educational plans for learners with exceptionalities including assessment practice. Non-biased assessment practices are discussed. Field experience is required.

EDSE637 – The Individual Education Process (3 credits)

This course provides an in-depth study of special education due process as it relates to Individual Education Plan (IEP) development and service delivery. Content includes collaboration with other professionals, legal and ethical issues in special education, the development and implementation of technically adequate IEPs, working with families and scientifically based interventions.
Prerequisite: EDSE 636

EDSE638 – Transition and Collaboration (3 credits)

This course covers the background, knowledge base, experience and personal contact necessary to work collaboratively with professionals and parents. Content includes learning consultation and collaboration skills to ensure that the needs of individuals with exceptionalities are addressed throughout their school careers. The course enhances the view of special educators as specialists and a resource to colleagues for instruction, inclusion, transition and collaboration with outside agencies.
Prerequisite: EDSE 637

EDSE639 – Social Emotional Learning and Well-Being (3 credits)

This course examines the social, emotional, and behavioral development in students with exceptionalities and a corresponding range of interventions to support these areas of development. These skills comprise personal development, interpersonal skills and interactions including identifying and managing emotions, empathy, building and sustaining positive relationships, positive problem solving skills, goal setting, managing stress, and addressing challenging situations positively.

Elective Courses

EDSE641 – Characteristics: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)

This course addresses the characteristics, etiology, prevalence and educational needs of learners with emotional disabilities. Special emphasis is given to definition and identification procedures. An additional focus on current research and critical issues and trends in the field of EBD is provided.
Prerequisites: All EDSE core courses (630 level)

EDSE642 – Strategies and Assessment: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)

This course examines instructional strategies, with an emphasis in literacy and math, for learners with emotional/behavioral disorders. Content includes basic psychometric principles of administering, scoring and interpreting informal and formal norm- and criterion-referenced tests used in special education identification and program planning.
Prerequisite: EDSE 641

EDSE647 – Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)

This course examines concepts and strategies of behavior in special education settings for learners with emotional/behavioral disorders, with mild to moderate needs. Content includes behavioral and affective approaches with a focus on basic behavioral principles, preventative techniques, behavior enhancement and reduction techniques, and use of rewards. Additional topics include functional behavioral assessment, preparation and implementation of behavior intervention plans, and the classroom environment. The course addresses research-based behavioral interventions and interventions based on behavioral, psycho-educational, and ecological theories.
Prerequisite: EDSE641

EDSE651 – Characteristics: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)

This course addresses the characteristics, etiology, prevalence and educational needs of learning disabled students. Special emphasis is given to definitions and identification procedures, including Response to Intervention. An additional focus on recent research and critical issues and trends in the field of LD is provided.
Prerequisites: All EDSE core courses (630 level)

EDSE652 – Strategies and Assessment: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)

This course examines instructional strategies, with an emphasis in literacy and math, for learners with learning disabilities. Content includes basic psychometric principles of administering, scoring and interpreting informal and formal norm- and criterion—referenced tests used in special education identification and program planning.
Prerequisite: EDSE 651

EDSE657 – Advanced Instruction and Methods: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)

In this course students increase their understanding and knowledge of the academic, social, and planning needs of students who have been identified with specific learning disabilities. Specific skill proficiency is developed using evidence-based practices in mathematics, reading, and written language instruction, with emphasis given to fidelity and efficacy of treatment, planning, teaching, and monitoring student progress. This course addresses cognitive characteristics in areas of attention, memory, and information processing, and the academic needs of students in writing, reading, math, and social competence focusing on learning strategies, scientifically based research instruction and related approaches.
Prerequisite: EDSE651

EDSE658 – Adolescence to Post-Secondary: Learning Disabilities

The impact of learning disabilities on adolescents through adulthood is studied in this course. Students review appropriate definitions, interventions, and integration of individuals with learning disabilities in educational settings and post-secondary environments. Students explore transitions beginning in middle school through post-secondary settings to develop individualized pathways and instructional strategies from a strengths based mindset. Content focuses on the unique challenges for persons who have sustained learning disabilities over time, emphasizing language and processing, advocacy skills, and how they may influence academic achievement and relationships.
Prerequisite: EDSE651

EDSE661 – Characteristics: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)

This course addresses the characteristics, etiology, prevalence, and educational needs of learners with autism. Special emphasis is given to identification and classification, recent and historical developments in the field, and critical issues and trends. Field experience is required.

EDSE662 – Strategies & Assessment: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)

This course examines instructional strategies, with an emphasis in literacy and math, for learners with autism. Content includes basic psychometric principles of administering, scoring, and interpreting informal and formal norm- and criterion-referenced tests used in special education identification and program planning.

EDSE667 – Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Autism Spectrum Disorders (3 credits)

This course examines concepts and strategies of behavior in special education settings for learners with autism, with mild to moderate needs. Content includes behavioral and affective approaches with a focus on basic behavioral principles, preventative techniques, behavior enhancement and reduction techniques, and use of rewards. Additional topics include functional behavioral assessment, preparation and implementation of behavior intervention plans, and the classroom environment. The course addresses research-based behavioral interventions and interventions based on behavioral, psycho-educational, and ecological theories.   
Prerequisite: EDSE661

Master of Arts Completion Courses

EDSE698 – Research Methods (3 credits)

This course examines both qualitative and quantitative educational research and methodology, with an emphasis on action research. Content includes how to develop a research question and how to identify the relevant literature. This course also explores the process of conducting educational action research.
Prerequisite: Approval from program director

EDSE699 – Action Research (3 credits)

Action research involves description, implementation, reflection and analysis of scientific research-based interventions related to special education. Summative presentation of action research is required.
Prerequisites: EDSE 698

MN Licensure Options

Please note: Students seeking to be prepared for licensure in Minnesota will need to complete additional coursework, practicums, and field experience. For more information, please click on options 2 or 3 below.

Option 2: Special Education – M.A. Degree with Additional Licensure

Special Education - M.A. Degree with Additional Licensure

  • Option 2: Special Education – M.A. Degree with Additional Licensure: This degree option is for already licensed classroom teachers in Minnesota who want to add licensure in one or more special education areas: emotional behavioral disorders (EBD), learning disabilities (LD), and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This program consists of: special education core courses (18 credits), specialization courses (15 credits), practicum courses (3 credits) and master’s degree completion courses (6 credits). Depending on a student’s existing Minnesota license, an additional reading course (EDUC 539) may be required. When seeking licensure, you will also complete practicum experiences in elementary, middle school and high school settings in Minnesota and Minnesota state licensing exams. Please note: licensure recommendation is contingent upon successfully completing all Minnesota state licensure requirements. Total: 42 credits.

The additional course requirements for licensure include one of the following specialization areas and practicum:

Specialization: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders 15 credits

  • EDSE641 Characteristics: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE642 Strategies and Assessment: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE646 Assessment and Application: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE647 Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE648 Applied Behavioral Interventions: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)

Specialization: Learning Disabilities 15 credits

  • EDSE651 Characteristics: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE652 Strategies and Assessment: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE656 Assessment and Application: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE657 Advanced Instruction and Methods: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE658 Adolescence to Post-Secondary: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)

Specialization: Autism Spectrum Disorders 15 credits

  • EDSE661 Characteristics: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE662 Strategies and Assessment: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE663 Assessment and Application: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE667 Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE668 Applied Behavioral Interventions: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)

EBD/LD Practicum 3 credits

  • EDSE681 EBD/LD Practicum 1 (1 credit)
  • EDSE682 EBD/LD Practicum 2 (1 credit)
  • EDSE683 EBD/LD Practicum 3 (1 credit)

ASD Practicum 3 credits

  • EDSE684 ASD Practicum 1 (1 credit)
  • EDSE685 ASD Practicum 2 (1 credit)
  • EDSE686 ASD Practicum 3 (1 credit)

ASD/EBD/LD Practicum 3 credits

  • EDSE691 ASD/EBD/LD Practicum 1 (1 credit)
  • EDSE692 ASD/EBD/LD Practicum 2 (1 credit)
  • EDSE693 ASD/EBD/LD Practicum 3 (1 credit)

Option 3: Special Education – M.A. Degree with Initial Licensure

Special Education - M.A. Degree with Initial Teacher Licensure

  • Option 3: Special Education – M.A. Degree with Initial Teacher Licensure: This option is for those without a Minnesota classroom teacher licensure who want to be licensed to teach special education in Minnesota. This program consists of: education foundation courses (18 credits), special education core courses (18 credits), specialization courses (15 credits), student teaching (8 credits), and master’s degree completion courses (6 credits). Please note: the education foundation courses are delivered in Minneapolis, MN and other select locations in Minnesota and precede online mobile learning. To obtain licensure: you will complete practicum experiences in elementary, middle school and high school settings in Minnesota and Minnesota state licensing exams. Licensure recommendation is contingent upon successfully completing all Minnesota state licensure requirements. Total: 65 credits. If you are ready to begin as an initial license seeker (those new to teaching) and start your foundations, contact Initial Licensure Enrollment Counselor Michelle Dougherty (mdougher@smumn.edu or 612-728-5122) to discuss the program further.

The additional course requirements for initial licensure include the following education foundation courses, a specialization area and student teaching courses:

Education Foundation Courses 18 credits (Minneapolis Campus)

  • EDUC515 Foundations of Education (2 credits)
  • EDUC525 Curriculum and Instruction: Grades 5-12 (4 credits)
  • EDUC511 Educational Measurement and Assessment: 5-12 (2 credits)
  • EDUC517 Learning, Development, and Exceptionality (3 credits)
  • EDUC539 Scientifically-Based Reading Instruction for Elementary Teachers (3 credits)
  • EDUC534 Technology in the Classroom: 5-12 (2 credits)
  • DUC565 Human Relations, Cultural Diversity, and American Indian Culture (2 credits)

Specialization: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders 15 credits

  • EDSE641 Characteristics: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE642 Strategies and Assessment: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE646 Assessment and Application: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE647 Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
  • EDSE648 Applied Behavioral Interventions: Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)

Specialization: Learning Disabilities 15 credits

  • EDSE651 Characteristics: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE652 Strategies and Assessment: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE656 Assessment and Application: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE657 Advanced Instruction and Methods: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)
  • EDSE658 Adolescence to Post-Secondary: Learning Disabilities (3 credits)

Specialization: Autism Spectrum Disorders 15 credits

  • EDSE661 Characteristics: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE662 Strategies and Assessment: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE663 Assessment and Application: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE667 Introduction to Behavioral Theories: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
  • EDSE668 Applied Behavioral Interventions: Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)

EBD/LD/ASD Student Teaching Courses 8 credits

  • EDSE688 Clinical Field Experience (0 credits)
  • EDSE689 Field Experience for Practicing Educators (6 credits)
  • EDSE690 Professional Capstone/Portfolio (2 credits)

The university reserves the right to change the curriculum and may make such changes without notice to students.

When you're ready to begin the journey to a better teaching career and a more inclusive classroom experience, call 877-308-9954 to speak with an enrollment counselor, or you can request more information