Inclusive Special Education (Grades 1-6), M.S.

The M.S. program in Inclusive Special Education (Grades 1-6) prepares graduates to work with children and adolescents with disabilities, and ensure their right to a meaningful education in a general education setting.

This program in the Department of Teaching and Leadership provides students with a background in childhood or elementary education with the tools to assess student and understand needs, develop instruction that incorporates multiple learning styles, understand multicultural perspectives, and ultimately help all children succeed. This program meets the academic requirements for initial and professional New York State teacher certification in Students with Disabilities (grades 1-6); existing initial certification in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) is required.

Why Inclusive Special Education at Syracuse University?

• Complete your degree in 15 months of full-time study, or complete your degree part time – many classes are in the afternoon, evening, or summer to accommodate working teachers.
• We define inclusion broadly, developing teachers ready to work with the full range of learners in schools, including students with disabilities, students who are not native English speakers, LGBTQ youth, and students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Students are prepared to teach in K-6 and K-8 school settings, providing both general education and specific content knowledge instruction for all students.
• Participate in EDU Sims, which are standardized simulations of common interactions in classroom and school environments to help you identify your strengths and develop your professional skills.
• At least 4 field placements in a diverse range of settings including urban and suburban schools in kindergarten and elementary school classrooms and other settings.
• Small student cohorts and a highly engaged alumni network mean you get to know your teachers and peers who will become your lifelong colleagues.
• Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad programs around the world. Through the Himan Brown Fellowship, School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.

Our graduates are in K-12 schools and other youth contexts including:

• Special or general education classroom teachers
• Teaching assistants or aide
• Consultant Teachers
• Teacher leaders, department chairs, and school administrators
• Research and advocacy organizations
• Community centers, agencies, and non-profit organizations
• Further studies including Educational Leadership, Special Education, or another area of interest.

Program Contacts

Christine Ashby, Professor; Director, Center on Disability and Inclusion

ceashby@syr.edu|315.443.8689

Holley Musak, Office Coordinator

hamusak@syr.edu|315.443.9659

Speranza Migliore, Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment

smiglior@syr.edu|315.443.2505