Special Education - Comprehensive, M.A.T.

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

1. Graduate admission application and nonrefundable admission fee
2. A conferred bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
3. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.67
4. Two sealed official transcripts of all undergraduate work and any prior graduate work
5. 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.