The state of Ohio is home to 135 private and public universities, with many offering Master’s in Special Education degree programs. The state is well-known for both the quantity and quality of higher education programs. In addition, Ohio is home to many special education clinics, schools and hospital programs, making finding an internship relatively simple. Special education programs are often intensive and are designed to prepare students for careers in the challenging field of special education. Those in the field can expect to work with a variety of types of special needs, ranging from speech delays and motor skills delays to autism, visual and hearing impairments, traumatic brain injury and cerebral palsy. The following programs all offer accredited and highly-respected special education programs in the state of Ohio.
Ashland University
Dwight Schar College of Education
The Dwight Schar College of Education at Ashland University is divided into six separate departments: Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood, Educational Administration, Foundations, Inquiry and Community Education, Inclusive Services and Exceptional Learners and Leadership Studies. The programs have been approved by the Ohio Board of Regents. In addition, 100% of Ashland University’s graduates in the teacher education program passed the Praxis II, Principles of Learning and Teaching examination in 2010-2011. Ashland has been named one of America’s Best Colleges and a Best Midwestern College.
Intervention Specialist Licenses for Individuals with a Current Teaching License or Certificate
The Intervention Specialist Licenses for Individuals with a Current Teaching License or Certificate at Ashland University is designed for students who already have an initial teaching license and would like to pursue additional licensure in the fields of mild, moderate or intensive special needs. While many of the courses can be applied to an eventual master’s degree, the post-baccalaureate certificate provides a shorter path towards licensure as an intervention specialist.
M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction: Intervention Specialist: Mild to Moderate
The M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction: Intervention Specialist: Mild to Moderate program is designed to prepare students to work in a K-12 setting with children who have mild to moderate disabilities and educational needs. Students are exposed to the most effective methods and strategies available for working with children and their families, while also meeting educational standards in the state of Ohio. Students will take courses in curriculum foundations, educational intervention, daily living skills, creating effective learning environments and special education law. In addition, students are required to complete an advanced field practicum and a capstone project. This program is available at the Ashland Campus, the Columbus Program Center and the Elyria Program Center. In addition, some courses may be completed online.
M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction: Intervention Specialist: Moderate to Intensive
The M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction: Intervention Specialist: Moderate to Intensive program is designed to prepare individuals to work in K-12 settings with children who have moderate to intensive special needs. Students in this program will be prepared to work in inclusive settings. Courses are available on topics such as educational intervention, communication for intervention specialists in a moderate to intensive setting, advanced sensory-motor intervention and diversity. In addition, students are required to complete an advanced field practicum and capstone experience. This program is available at the Ashland Campus, with some courses available to be completed online.
Accreditations
The teacher training programs at Ashland University are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The university is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Contact
Ashland University
Dwight Schar College of Education
401 College Ave.
Ashland, Oh 44805
(419) 289-5688
[email protected]
http://www.ashland.edu/coe/graduate-programs
Baldwin Wallace University
School of Education
The School of Education at Baldwin Wallace University offers a Master of Arts in Education with four options for specialization: Leadership in Technology for Teaching and Learning (Computer/Technology Endorsement), Literacy (Reading Endorsement), Mild/Moderate Educational Needs (Mild/Moderate Intervention Specialist License)and School Leadership (Principal License). All four of these programs are available on campus or online. Students who hold current teaching positions at school districts that participate in the BW School Partnership Program may be qualified for significant tuition discounts.
Master of Arts in Education Degree in Mild/Moderate Educational Needs
The Master of Arts in Education Degree in Mild/Moderate Educational Needs program is designed to prepare students to teach in inclusive settings. They may be qualified for positions, such as consultant teachers, resource room teachers, group instructors, transition service coordinators and co-teachers. Those with valid teaching licenses can complete the program in 37 semester hours. Those who want to add the intervention specialist license to their current license without earning the full master’s degree can complete the program in 25 semester hours. Those without a teaching license can enroll in the License+Master’s program offered by the university. All program participants must also complete the Ohio 12 hour reading core program prior to applying for an intervention specialist license.
Accreditations
Baldwin Wallace University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. In addition, all programs in the School of Education are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The university is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education.
Contact
Baldwin Wallace University
Master of Arts in Education
Office of Admission
Durst Welcome Center
(440) 826-8012
[email protected]
https://www.bw.edu/academics/master-of-arts-in-education/maed-mild-moderate/
Central State University
College of Education
The College of Education at Central State University offers several baccalaureate, post-baccalaureate and master’s level programs. Those pursuing a degree in adolescent to young adult education can specialize in integrated language arts, integrated mathematics, integrated social studies, life science and physical science. In addition, there are also programs in early childhood education, intervention specialist and middle childhood education in language arts, social studies, mathematics and science. Finally, the department offers multi-age programs in health education, music, physical education and visual arts.
Post-Baccalaureate Degree Program in Intervention Specialist – Mild/Moderate for Grades K-12
The Post-Baccalaureate Degree Program in Intervention Specialist – Mild/Moderate for Grades K-12 program is designed for students interested in pursuing a career as an intervention specialist in a K-12 setting. The mild/moderate credential allows teachers to work with children on the mild to moderate end of the autism spectrum, as well as with children who have language, emotional or motor skills deficits. Central State’s program focuses on taking an empathic and action-oriented compassion approach rather than a tokenistic approach. Teaching is approached from a psychological, cultural, social and economic standpoint rather than merely from an academic standpoint.
Accreditations
Central State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. In addition, the College of Education is accredited by The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (CEC).
Contact
Central State University
College of Education
1400 Brush Row Rd.
PO Box 1004
Wilberforce, Oh
(800) 388-2781
[email protected]
http://www.centralstate.edu/academics/education/index.php?num=11
Cleveland State University
Department of Teacher Education in the College of Education and Human Services
Department of Teacher Education in the College of Education and Human Services at Cleveland State University offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs in education. Specializations include foreign language instruction, visual arts education, integrated language and mathematics, gifted and talented education, adult literacy and special education. Any of the specializations, such as early childhood intervention, mild/moderate intervention and moderate/intensive intervention and also be taken in conjunction with a graduate certificate in autism spectrum disorders. Any of the education programs can be taken as degree only, license only or a combination degree and license.
M.Ed in Special Education: Early Childhood Intervention (PreK-3)
The M.Ed in Special Education: Early Childhood Intervention program is designed to allow students to work in a preschool or other early childhood setting with children who have special health, behavior or educational needs. Students are required to take courses in educational research, technology, social issues, philosophy of education, child development, diversity, special education, nature and needs of young children, assessing young children and curriculum for infants and young children. Students must also complete a comprehensive exam or project, phonics assessment course and an internship.
M.Ed in Special Education: Mild/Moderate Intervention (K-12)
The M.Ed in Special Education: Mild/Moderate Intervention program is for teachers interested in working in a K-12 setting. Required specialization courses include classroom management for severe behavior problems, life skills, assessment of disabilities and collaboration among parents and professionals. In addition, student teaching, a comprehensive examination and a thesis are required.
M.Ed in Special Education: Moderate/Intensive Intervention (K-12)
The M.Ed in Special Education: Moderate/Intensive Intervention program is also designed for teachers interested in working in a K-12 setting. Required specialization courses include multi factored evaluation, supporting medical and intensive educational needs and instruction to meet academic and behavior needs, in addition to student teaching.
Accreditations
Cleveland State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. The College of Education and Human Services is accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and approved by the Ohio Department of Education.
Contact
Cleveland State University
CEHS Advising
Julka Hall 170
2121 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
[email protected]
https://cehs.csuohio.edu/te/special-education
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Education Department
The Education Department at the Franciscan University of Steubenville offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The department strives to prepare teachers to be leaders in today’s educational settings. The university has earned the honors of Recommended Catholic College and U.S. News and World Report’s Best Regional University (Midwest).
Master of Science in Education with Licensure as an Intervention Specialist
This combination program allows students to simultaneously earn a master’s degree while also obtaining an initial teaching license or an additional teaching endorsement. This program focuses on developing leadership skills, as well as strengthening intellectual, interpersonal and spiritual growth. All students are expected to begin to develop an educational philosophy that can respond to the changing needs of today’s students.
Accreditations
Franciscan University of Steubenville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. In addition, the Education Department is approved by the Ohio Department of Education and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Educators (NCATE).
Contact
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Education Department
1235 University Blvd.
Steubenville, Oh 43952
(740) 283-3771
[email protected]
https://spp.franciscan.edu/programs/graduate-education/
Kent State University
College of Education, Health and Human Services, School of Lifespan Development and Educational Sciences
The College of Education, Health and Human Services offers several specializations in their Master of Education program. These programs are designed to allow teachers to specialize in a particular area of education, such as early childhood, intervention specialist, gifted education or transition to work. Students must complete at least 32 semester hours of coursework, provide an official transcript, goal statement, 2 letters of recommendation and verification of good moral character.
Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Mild/Moderate Educational Needs
The Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Mild/Moderate Educational Needs is for those who wish to work in a K-12 setting with children who have mild to moderate disabilities, such as learning and emotional disorders, behavior disorders and developmental disabilities.
Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Moderate/Intensive Educational Needs
The Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Moderate/Intensive Educational Needs program is designed to prepare teachers to work with children from 5–21 years of age with developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injury or multiple disabilities.
Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Deaf Education
Those in the Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Deaf Education program will be qualified to work in a preschool through 12th grade setting with children who have hearing impairments. Students will be prepared to teach and do educational interpreting for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Early Child Interventional Specialist
The Intervention Specialist – M.Ed.: Early Child Interventional Specialist program is for students interested in working in a preschool or other early childhood setting. The program strives to help increase culturally responsive and family-oriented approaches to working with young children who have disabilities.
Accreditations
Kent State University is affiliated with the National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. It is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. The special education programs are accredited by the Council on Education of the Deaf and National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Contact
Kent State University
College of Education, Health and Human Service
Dr. Melody Tankersley
405 White Hall
(330) 672-2294
[email protected]
Marietta College
Education Department
Marietta College’s Education Department strives to produce educator leaders in today’s quickly changing schools. The majority of the department’s offerings are at the undergraduate level in order to prepare students to earn their initial teaching licenses. There is a graduate program available in the field of intervention specialist at the P-12 level.
Intervention Specialist (P – 12): Graduate Intervention Specialist
This graduate-level program is a continuation of Marietta’s undergraduate special education program. Students at this level are expected to take the Ohio Reading Core as part of their initial teaching license, as well as courses in classroom management, childhood psychological disorders, special education law and instructional methods. In addition, students must complete field experience and an internship.
Accreditations
Marietta College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission while the Education Department is accredited by The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (CEC).
Contact
Marietta College
Education Department
215 Fifth Street
Marietta, OH 45750
(800) 331-7896
[email protected]
https://www.marietta.edu/program/education
Miami University
Department in Educational Psychology in the College of Education, Health & Society
Miami University offers several specializations in the Educational Psychology and Masters in Education programs, including educational psychology, instructional design and technology, school psychology, special education and assessment and evaluation. While the school’s undergraduate program is designed to lead to licensure, the graduate-level program is appropriate for students who would like a second license or a special education endorsement.
Special Education Online Hybrid (SEOH) Graduate Program
The Special Education Online Hybrid (SEOH) Graduate Program is a 24 credit-hour program for students who already have an initial Ohio teaching license, plus an addition 12 credit hour program for the M.Ed. degree. This graduate program includes online coursework plus several face-to-face meetings.
Accreditations
Miami University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. In addition, the special education program is accredited by The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (CEC).
Contact
Miami University
Department of Educational Psychology
Special Education Online/Hybrid Program
201 E. Spring St.
(513) 529-2767
[email protected]
http://seoh.miamioh.edu/
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
School of Graduate and Professional Studies
The School of Graduate and Professional Studies at Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers programs in business, education and ministry. In the Department of Education, there are MA.Ed. programs in general education and intervention specialist mild/moderate in order to assist students in earning an initial teaching license or an additional special education credential.
Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist Mild/Moderate for Licensed Teachers
The Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist Mild/Moderate for Licensed Teachers program is a 24 credit hour program taught once a week in a four hour class. This program is designed for individuals who currently hold a valid license in early childhood education, middle childhood education or adolescent and young adult education. Eight credit hours of the program will be completed as field and clinical experience, including a full-time four week advanced practicum.
Accreditations
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. The School of Graduate and Professional Studies is accredited by the National Association of Colleges for Teacher Education and is approved by the Ohio Department of Education.
Contact
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
School of Graduate and Professional Studies
800 Martinsburg Rd.
Mount Vernon, Oh 43050
(800) 839-2355
http://www.mvnu.edu/gps/graduate_programs/education/maed_adv/
Muskingum University
School of Graduate and Continuing Studies
The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies offers several programs, including graduate degree programs in information and technology, educational leadership, accounting and education. In the Education Department, there are two separate tracks that can be completed: the Master of Arts in Education and the Master of Arts in Teaching, giving both licensed teachers and those seeking an initial license options for program completion.
Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist: Mild/Moderate
This program is a 56-59 credit hour program with options to obtain an elementary education certificate, an early childhood license, a middle childhood license, a secondary and young adult license or a multi-age license. All students must complete core classes, professional education courses, reading courses, mathematics content courses and a clinical practicum.
Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist: Gifted/Talented
For those who are interested in working with gifted and talented students in a K-12 setting, this 47 credit hour program is available to students in the Graduate and Continuing Studies department. This program is designed for those who already have a valid elementary, early childhood or middle childhood teaching license.
Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist: Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
The Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist: Early Childhood Intervention Specialist program is designed to prepare students to teach in preschool and early childhood programs. This is a 62 credit hour intensive program. Students will complete courses in pedagogy, early childhood, reading and special education.
Master of Arts in Education – Intervention Specialist: Moderate/Intensive
This program is an intensive program designed to prepare teachers for careers in moderate to intensive need special education classrooms. Students will complete core courses on a variety of pedagogy and education themes. Students will also complete professional education courses, the Ohio core reading courses and clinical practice courses. Students have the choice of a research seminar, practitioner seminar, or the National Board Certification Process as the final program requirement.
Master of Arts in Teaching – Intervention Specialist: Mild to Moderate
The Master of Arts in Teaching – Intervention Specialist: Mild to Moderate program is an initial licensure program for those interested in teaching in a K-12 education setting with students who have mild to moderate special needs. This program includes professional education courses, reading courses, communication and technology courses and clinical experience.
Master of Arts in Teaching – Intervention Specialist: Moderate to Intensive
This program is designed as an initial licensure program in order to prepare students to successfully complete the PRAXIS III. This specialization is designed as a multi-age special education licensure program for moderate to intensive special needs. This 51 credit hour program includes clinical practice and practicum.
Accreditations
Muskingum University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, the education program is a member of the Interstate Certification Compact, the American Council on Education, the Council for the Advancement and support of Education, and is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
Contact
Muskingum University
Graduate & Continuing Studies
117 Montgomery Hall
163 Stormont Street
New Concord, OH 43762
(740) 826-8038
[email protected]
https://www.muskingum.edu/gcs/mae
The state of Ohio is home to well over 100 colleges and universities, making this a popular destination for those seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees. Many of these institutions offer a Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs in Ohio designed to prepare teachers for careers as intervention specialists in preschool through 12th grade.
For Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs in Ohio, O-Z, click here.
