Special Education - Initial License

Purpose

This program is designed for individuals seeking an initial license in teacher of students with moderate disabilities PK-8 or 5-12 and/or training in special education. It also serves those with bachelor’s or advanced degrees who want to gain a more comprehensive knowledge of special education in the school systems. Parents, administrators and community service workers have benefited from this program. This program qualifies students to apply for initial licensure from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree with grades of merit from an accredited college or university, with an arts and sciences major, or a major appropriate to the teaching license sought (e.g., physical education, computer sciences, or technology)

A sample of academic writing. Please review our academic writing sample guidelines. Attach your academic writing sample to the end of your personal statement in the online application.

An interview with a member of the admissions committee. You will be contacted to schedule your interview after your application is complete.

A passing score on the Communication and Literacy skills portion of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure

Program Requirements

Special Education Courses

Practicum Courses

Total Credits: 18-35.5**

Depending on prior graduate coursework in special education and in consultation with the program coordinator, students may take 18-36 credits in the Special Education-Initial License only program. The program coordinator will document content standards through a careful review of official transcripts and course syllabi.

*EDU860: A candidate who holds an SEI Endorsement may use the endorsement to satisfy this requirement.

**Students who enter the program with specific course competencies taken prior to admission may be eligible for a reduction in the overall number of degree credits in the program. The program will require a minimum of 18 credits to complete, but if a student has demonstrated that they have taken a course in a similar competency they do not need to retake the corresponding course at Salem State University.

Additional Information and Notes

*Candidates for initial licensure must take and pass all required sections of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure prior to entering the practicum.