The M.A.T. in Special Education - Comprehensive is a 48-credit program that leads to recommendation for licensure as a K-12 Special Education teacher in Connecticut.
The program prepares highly effective practitioners in Special Education whose work is grounded in current research, theory, and evidence-based practice. Candidates develop professional skills and dispositions to effect positive change for students with specialized learning needs. We are guided by the values of equity , diversity, and inclusion, and seek to prepare the next generation of teachers to enact these values in their classrooms, schools, and communities.
Program outcomes
- Learn best practices in curriculum and instruction in special education
- Develop equitable teaching practices that support the learning of all students
- Experience a field-based program that connects theory and practice
Acceptance requirements
- Graduate admission application and nonrefundable admission fee
- A conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.67
- Two sealed official transcripts of all undergraduate work and any prior graduate work
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the candidate’s suitability as a prospective teacher or to work with children and families, accompanied by the Graduate School’s cover form on the University website
Note: Recommendations must be from individuals who are not family members, personal friends or members of the USJ School of Education
Continuation requirements
Candidates must earn a grade of C or better in all courses for continuous progression throughout the program. After 12 credits, candidates must maintain a GPA of 2.67 or higher throughout the program.
Exit requirements
In addition to all required coursework and field experiences, students must complete EdTPA (cost to candidates is $300.00), a State of Connecticut required exam for teacher licensure, which also meets USJ’s master’s degree requirement as a comprehensive evaluation for the program.
