Master of Science in Special Education (Low Incidence)

Hours: 36 Online

About

The M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program at Fort Hays State University is designed to meet the needs of today’s educators, offering flexibility, convenience, and high educational standards. This 36-credit-hour, fully online program provides a comprehensive understanding of the unique learning needs of students and can be completed in 18-24 months without any entrance exam requirements. The curriculum integrates technology and prepares educators to excel in a dynamic educational environment.

Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, real-world application, action research, and best practices, ensuring students are ready to address the challenges in special education. Accredited by KSDE and CAEP, the program offers a rigorous education aligned with state and national standards. With personalized faculty mentorship and a practical, intensive curriculum, this program equips educators with the tools and support needed to succeed in the classroom and advance their careers.

Why pursue a Master of Science in Special Education (Low Incidence) at Fort Hays State University?

Special educators play a crucial role in empowering students with unique learning needs, and our M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program is specifically designed to help educators excel in this vital field. The program is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive, flexible, and high-quality learning experience that directly aligns with the unique challenges of teaching students with significant developmental needs.

What sets our program apart is its fully online format, allowing you to pursue advanced education without interrupting your professional and personal life. The 36-credit-hour curriculum is designed for flexibility, enabling you to complete your degree in 18-24 months, regardless of your location. Unlike traditional programs, our coursework emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, focusing on the critical instructional techniques required to support PreK-12 students with unique learning needs. With personalized faculty mentorship and a focus on technology, critical thinking, and action research, this program equips you with the tools to succeed in both the classroom and your career.

Who is this program for?

The M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program is ideal for educators passionate about making a difference in students' lives with significant developmental challenges. Here are the types of individuals who will benefit most from this degree:

Educators seeking to specialize in teaching students with unique learning needs
Current special education teachers looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers
Professionals seeking a flexible, online program to earn a graduate degree while maintaining their teaching responsibilities

Learning Outcomes

Through our comprehensive curriculum, participants develop expertise in critical areas essential for successful special education practice, including:

Low-Incidence Expertise

Graduates gain a deep understanding of the unique characteristics and educational needs of students with unique learning needs. Our program emphasizes research-based practices and tailored strategies to effectively support students with significant cognitive, physical, or sensory impairments across PreK-12 settings.

Standards-Based Instruction

Participants develop the ability to design and implement individualized education programs and standards-based instructional plans for students with unique learning needs. Our curriculum aligns with the Kansas State Department of Education Special Education Low-Incidence Content Standards and Council for Exceptional Children Standards, ensuring that you are equipped with the tools to meet both state and national expectations in special education.

Collaborative and Family-Centered Practices

To create a supportive learning environment, graduates learn to foster collaborative relationships with families, colleagues, and other professionals. This program emphasizes the importance of family engagement, communication, and team-based approaches to better support students with unique learning needs in their educational journey.

Real-World Applications

Our M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program's comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip students with the essential skills to navigate the challenges and opportunities they will face in their special education careers. We focus on ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to impact their students' lives.

To provide students with real-world experience, we immerse them in practical activities that reflect the realities of teaching in special education. The program includes practicum experience, allowing students to apply their learning directly in PreK-12 classrooms. This interactive experience is tailored to align with the specific responsibilities of special education teachers, ensuring that students are fully prepared for the unique demands of working with students with exceptional learning needs. Students gain invaluable insights and skills through these practical activities that will help them succeed as educators.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program at Fort Hays State University ensures students have the latest tools and knowledge to thrive in the evolving field. Our faculty integrates current technology, including augmentative and alternative communication tools, to enhance students' communication capabilities.

Additionally, the program incorporates updates on legal requirements and regulations in special education, ensuring that educators are always informed about the latest legislative changes. With faculty expertise and a curriculum that blends theory with practical application, our program offers the support and opportunities needed to succeed in the dynamic world of special education.

Practical Activities

By choosing the M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) at FHSU, students will engage in practical course assignments that directly align with their role as full-time educators. These assignments are carefully designed to be integrated into teaching activities, providing valuable opportunities to apply learning in real-world classroom settings. As a result, participants gain firsthand experience in addressing the unique needs of students with exceptional learning needs while impacting their educational journey.

The curriculum includes core courses on essential topics such as the legal requirements of special education, assessing students with unique learning needs, and preparing PreK-12 students for successful transitions. Students also explore using assistive technologies, behavior management strategies, and evidence-based instructional practices. These assignments help develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and best practices in special education, equipping graduates with the skills to effectively support students with unique learning needs.

What You’ll Learn:

Gain specialized knowledge in supporting PreK-12 students with unique learning needs, including cognitive, physical, and sensory impairments
Develop skills to create and implement individualized education programs for students
Learn to integrate current technology into teaching practices
Gain expertise in fostering collaborative, family-centered practices to enhance student learning and well-being
Acquire practical experience through real-world applications

How You’ll Learn:

Fully online format of learning
Tailored to address specific needs of PreK-12 students with special education needs
Incorporate current educational technology, including augmentative and alternative communication tools
Practical assignments
Personalized faculty mentorship

Courses

The M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program curriculum is designed to equip educators with the essential knowledge and skills needed to support students with significant developmental and learning challenges. It covers foundational topics such as identifying and assessing exceptionalities, while also focusing on the legal and ethical aspects that govern special education practices. Students will explore a range of strategies for designing individualized educational programs and fostering inclusive learning environments. Additionally, the program addresses integrating technology, behavior management techniques, and collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams. Below are a few of the courses in the M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence):

SPED 804: Behavior Management in Schools/Practicum

This course focuses on the behavior of children and youth, emphasizing the assessment, diagnosis, and modification of various behaviors. It provides an in-depth exploration of strategies for understanding and addressing behavioral challenges in diverse educational settings.

SPED 801: Legal/Professional Issues in Special Education

This course will focus on legal and professional issues in special education, emphasizing exceptional children and youth and the provision of educational and related services for this population.

SPED 802: Theories of Exceptionalities and Diversity

This foundational course in special education explores the theoretical perspectives of individual variance in students with exceptionalities. It covers procedures for identifying students with diverse needs, focusing on cognitive, social, motor, communication, and affective behaviors. Additionally, the course examines the biological, cultural, and family dynamics that influence the development and education of children with exceptionalities.

Discover the full M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Upon completing the M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program, graduates will be equipped with the expertise, skills, and credentials to pursue a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. The program prepares educators to take on pivotal roles in supporting students with unique learning needs, opening doors to positions that significantly impact the lives of students and the broader educational community. Below are several career paths that graduates can explore:

Special Education Teacher

Special education teachers provide individualized instruction and support to students with disabilities in diverse classroom settings. They design and implement specialized curricula, create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and utilize evidence-based strategies to meet the unique learning needs of each student. This role is critical in empowering students with learning needs to reach their full potential.

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants support and guide school districts, parents, and educators to guide the best practices for helping students with unique learning needs. They conduct evaluations, develop Individualized Education Programs, and offer professional development to teachers and staff. Your advanced knowledge of special education will make you an essential resource for enhancing educational outcomes for students with low-incidence learning needs.

Resource Room Educator

Resource room educators provide targeted, individualized instruction in a small group setting. This position involves working directly with students who have special learning needs, using strategies to help them overcome academic challenges and build critical skills in a supportive learning environment.

Admission Requirements

At Fort Hays State University, we are dedicated to equipping our students with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel as special education professionals. To be considered for admission to our Master of Science in Special Education (Low Incidence) program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Cumulative GPA

A solid academic foundation is important for success in this program. We require a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 undergraduate credit hours. This ensures that applicants possess the academic rigor necessary for graduate-level coursework.

Application to Graduate School

Begin the admission process by submitting a completed application to the Graduate School. This serves as the formal entry into the M.S. in Special Education (Low Incidence) program and provides essential information for our admissions team.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a personal statement detailing their motivations for pursuing a career in special education. This is an opportunity to explain why you are passionate about working with students with exceptionalities and why you have chosen FHSU’s program specifically.

Two Outside Personal Recommendations

Two letters of recommendation are required. These letters should come from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities, professional competencies, and dedication to working in the field of special education. These could be professors, employers, or supervisors who have observed your teaching and work ethic.

Completion of a Bachelor's Degree

Applicants must submit an official transcript documenting the completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. This ensures that all applicants have met the educational prerequisites for the program.

Teaching License, if Applicable

For those already holding a teaching license, please provide a copy of your current teaching license. This verifies your qualifications to teach and can be essential for students wishing to enhance their credentials in special education.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,047.58* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Successful program completion means that graduates are prepared for the challenges and responsibilities of their chosen career paths. However, various related programs at FHSU can provide you with valuable knowledge and skills to enhance your expertise in this area:

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the online courses?

The Master of Science in Special Education (Low Incidence) program comprises 36 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 18 months.

Are there any additional resources or support services for online students?

Fort Hays State University provides various resources and support services to help online students succeed. These resources include online tutoring, writing workshops, and career counseling. Additionally, FHSU has a dedicated team of online student support specialists who can answer questions and assist.

Are scholarships or financial aid options available for students in this program?

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students with the cost of tuition and fees. Scholarships are available based on merit, financial need, and experience.

How is the program structured to accommodate the needs of working professionals?

The online program accommodates the busy schedules of working educators. It offers flexibility and convenience to cater to the needs of professionals, allowing them to pursue their educational goals while managing their existing commitments.

Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs

FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.

AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.

Accreditations

Special Education – Low Incidence

Masters
Endorsement

Online

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