Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education program is to prepare candidates for Virginia licensure in Special Education – general curriculum. Teachers who complete this program are fully versed in differentiated instruction, behavior interventions, the educational laws impacting special education, and the characteristics of students with disabilities. This program is defined by the federal guidelines, state guidelines of the Virginia Department of Education, the Council for Exceptional Children, and national accreditation. The guidelines for this program are subject to change based on federal and state regulations or national accreditation for the licensure of special education. Graduates will be prepared to successfully teach and lead in Christian, public, and private schools.

Program Learning Outcomes

A graduate of the Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education program:

1. Knows Biblical values, moral dimensions, and ethical implications synthesized with academic knowledge
2. Implements skills as a gift from God, because teaching/leadership is a calling from God
3. Believes and practices personal integrity, social responsibility, sensitivity to the needs of others, and the betterment of humanity

• 1a. The candidate formulates knowledge of learner development, learning differences, and learning environments. (InTASC Domain 1 The learner and learning )
• 1b. The candidate demonstrates knowledge of the literature of the discipline area and the application of content to connect concepts and engage learners. (InTASC Domain 2 Content)
• 2a. The candidate plans instruction using multiple methods of assessment and instructional strategies to develop a deep understanding of the content for all learners. (InTASC Domain 3 Instructional practice)
• 3a. The candidate develops a Biblical worldview and professional responsibility through ongoing reflection and professional development experiences where opportunities are provided for leadership and collaboration with stakeholders.(InTASC Domain 4 Professional responsibility)
• 4a. The candidate uses evidence-based practices and knowledge of pedagogical theory in all content areas to assess, plan, and teach K-12 students.

Adapted Curriculum & Early Childhood Special Education with CTE-Transition & Special Needs (Add-On Endorsement) Concentration

• The candidate will be able to design specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with low incident disabilities.

Early Childhood Special Education & General Curriculum Concentration

• The candidate will be able to design specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of a child (birth to five) with disabilities.

General Curriculum & Adapted Curriculum with CTE-Transition & Special Needs (Add-On Endorsement) Concentration

• The candidate will be able to design specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with high incident disabilities.

Program Specific Admission Requirements

In addition to the general admission procedures, specific admission requirements for the Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (M.A.T.) program are:

1. Earned baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (e.g., SACSCOC, TRACS, ABHE, etc.).
2. GPA of at least a 2.50 on a 4.00 scale (cautionary admission is an option if the candidate has at least a 2.00).
3. TOEFL Scores for candidates who speak English as a second language (score of 600 paper–based test; 250 computer-based test, 80 internet-based test).

Transfer of Credit

All graduate transfer credits are subject to the approval of the School of Education (SOE) Graduate Committee. Such courses must carry a grade of at least a B- and be comparable to Liberty University graduate courses. Transfer credit will only be considered from institutions or schools accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. With approval, up to 18 hours may be transferred into the M.A.T. programs. It is the responsibility of each applicant to supply official transcripts along with a written request to have credit applied to the degree program. Transfer credits must have been completed within the previous ten (10) years.

Credits from a prior degree on the same academic level earned through Liberty University are considered transfer credits.

Delivery Format: Online Only

• Special Education Teacher – Adaptive Curriculum
• Special Education Teacher – Early Childhood Special Educator
• Special Education Teacher – Inclusion
• Special Education Teacher – General Curriculum
• Home-based service provider
• Family support specialist
• Consultant