The Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Special Education is designed for practicing special educators who hold a master's degree in special education (or related field such as speech language pathology, deaf education, vocational rehabilitation, or adapted physical education) who wish to advance their professional skills in special education. Information and skills in special education acquired and developed at the undergraduate and master’s level in special education are specifically designed for and focused on the provision of services. The Ed.S., however, focuses on knowledge and skills necessary for leadership roles and advanced teaching positions in special education.

For information about Admissions and Graduation requirements, please visit this program's page on the Graduate School website.

Visit the Special Ed page in Majors & Degrees for general info about the field and degree.

Program of Study

For Course Descriptions, please visit this program's page in the VSU Catalog

Course hrs Semester(s)
EDUC 5999 Professional Orientation 3 All
RSCH 7100 Research Methodology in Education 3 All
SPEC 8010 Readings in Issues of Education of Children and Youth with Disabilities 3 Spring
SPEC 8020 Characteristics of Effective School Structure For Children and Youth with Disabilities 3 Spring
SPEC 8030 Leadership in Special Education 3 Fall 1
SPEC 8040 Developing Professional Training Programs in Special Education using Advanced Applications of Technology 3 Fall 1
SPEC 8050 Co-Teaching in Special Education 3 Fall 2
SPEC 8060 Single Subject Designs for Special Education 3 Fall 2
Elective (5000 or above, approved by supervisor) 3 All
*Elective (5000 or above, approved by supervisor) 3 All
*SPEC 8110 Advanced Capstone
OR
SPEC 8899 Thesis
3

6
All

All
Total Hours: 30 

*NOT required with Thesis option

SPEC 8030/40/50/60 are offered on alternating Fall semesters