Degree
School
Overview
The Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education K-12 is designed for individuals who want to enhance the lives of children and youth with disabilities through high quality education. This program also includes all requirements for ESOL and Reading endorsements. The program is intended for students who earned a bachelor’s degree in a field outside of education and who do not currently hold a professional teaching certificate.
Students will gain hands-on experience by conducting an action research project in an exceptional student education setting, participating in a reading practicum and completing a graduate internship in a K-12 school.
Exceptional student education is a critical shortage area, and students may be eligible for funding under the TEACH grant. Additionally, students may be eligible to receive partial or full tuition support through our U.S. Department of Education funded projects. Upon completion of the program, graduates apply to the Florida Department of Education to obtain ESE Professional Educator Certification with ESOL and Reading Endorsements. Most courses are available online.
This program has potential ties to professional licensure or certification in the field. For more information on how this program may prepare you in that regard, please view the licensure disclosure for this program.
Comprehensive Exam
A comprehensive examination is required for MA students and serves as the culminating experience in the program. The comprehensive exam should be taken during the final semester of a student’s program or the term immediately preceding the final term.
Comprehensive Exam Application
Comprehensive Exam Overview and Study Guide
Overview of Masters Comprehensive Exam
Graduate Internship
All MA students will be required to complete a graduate internship. MA students who are not currently teaching will complete an internship experience, which includes student teaching in an ESE setting under the direction of certified ESE teachers. MA students who are currently teaching in an approved setting are eligible to apply for an on-the-job internship. Applications are due near the beginning of the semester prior to your internship, not including summer.
Visit the Office of Immersive Experiences for additional information about internships.
Student Resources
Online Student Portfolio
Code of Professional Conduct
Florida Teacher Certification Examinations
FTCE Resources