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Master of Arts in Education
Cross-Categorical Special Education
Version 008

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Education (MAED) with a specialization in Cross-Categorical Special Education is a graduate degree program preparing candidates for teacher licensure in the field of special education. Candidates for this program have already earned a bachelor's degree and wish to gain the pedagogical skills and knowledge that will assist them in becoming effective special education educators. The program's curriculum includes orientation to the exceptional child, foundations and methodologies of mild disabilities, diagnosis and assessment of disabilities, structured English immersion, reading and language arts instruction, inclusion strategies, and collaboration and resource management for the special educator.

Throughout the program, students are required to complete a minimum of 100 hours of verified field experiences. The focus of each observation will relate to specific course content. Documentation will be maintained in the student's electronic portfolio. Students' field experiences are designed to prepare them for student teaching.

Student teaching is an integral component of the Special Education Program. Student teachers work with a cooperating teacher and with a University of Phoenix faculty advisor during a field-based experience in a cross-categorical special education setting. The student teaching experience is designed to emphasize the achievement of state standards leading to certification and to present individuals with growth opportunities that best prepare them to assume the duties of a certified teacher.

The degree program has a research component as well. This component requires an Action Research Project. The project integrates the theoretical aspects of special education and the practical experience of the adult learner through the identification and exploration of a significant problem related to the student's area of professional responsibilities and interest.