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Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism Impact

Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism

 

Fairmont State offers an online Masters of Education Degree in Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism. The Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism program prepares teachers to address the needs of learners with mild to moderate disabilities. Students who successfully complete program requirements and state requirements for certification will receive endorsements at both the K-6 and 5-Adult levels in Multi-Categorical Special Education and Autism. This graduate program is designed to meet the needs of two groups of candidates:

  • Candidates who hold a valid teaching license at the time of admissions and are seeking to add a certification and obtain a M.Ed. in Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism.
  • Candidates who have completed a Bachelors Degree but who do not hold a valid teaching license at the time of admissions and are seeking a M.Ed. and certification in Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism.
  • Autism Endorsement: Fairmont State offers 2 courses (6-credits) for individuals who hold a certification in Multi-Categorical Special Education and would like to apply to the West Virginia Board of Education for an endorsement in Autism. 
    • SPED 6330: Introduction to Autism
    • SPED 6331: Methods and Strategies for Autism

Program Outcomes

In addition to the general outcomes for Graduate Studies at Fairmont State University, Special Education candidates are prepared to meet learning outcomes based upon the national Council for Exceptional Children Professional Standards and the state West Virginia Professional Teaching Standards.

Program Delivery

All coursework is delivered online and asynchronously, enabling candidates to complete coursework wherever they have access to the Internet, and at times that are most convenient for them. Courses are coupled with clinical experiences either in candidates’ own schools and multi-categorical classrooms or, for those candidates who are not currently teaching, in an arranged placement in a multi-categorical classroom setting in a local school.

Mission

The mission of the Masters of Education in Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism program is to prepare reflective and responsive educators who possess the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to help individuals with exceptionalities learn.

Professional Opportunities

The need for teachers who are fully certified in multi-categorical special education continues to grow, both in regions throughout West Virginia and across the country. Education employment forecasters predict that this need is likely to continue to increase for several more years. Having this certification enhances an educator's marketability and options for employment. The knowledge, skills and professional dispositions developed in Fairmont State University's Multi-Categorical Special Education with Autism program can be applied in any classroom to benefit all learners. In addition, veteran special educators attest that while the work of a special education teacher is demanding, it is also very rewarding.

Program Admission Requirements

  • Submit admissions application to the Office of Admissions. Apply online now 
  • Pay $50 application fee along with application
  • Submit official college transcripts to the Office of Admissions
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA

Application forms can be found on the Graduate Studies Forms and Resources Page

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Deadline: August 1st
  • Spring Deadline: January 1st
  • Summer Deadline: May 1st

Program Cost

For Online Graduate Tuition see the Tuition and Fees Chart

Additional Program Information

View more information on the Multi-Categorical Special Education Program Sheet

The Council for Exceptional Children Logo

The M.Ed. in Special Education program is fully accredited by the Council for Exceptional Children.

Contact

Dr. Julie Reneau

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Program Coordinator, Professor of Special Education, Executive Director, Autism Individualized Mentoring and Support Services (AIMSS) Program 
 355 Education 
 304.367.4507
 julie.reneau@fairmontstate.edu