For Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs in Illinois, A-K, click here.
Lewis University, IL
College of Education
The College of Education at Lewis University is committed to preparing professional educators by partnering theory with practical training. By providing a wide variety of hands-on experiences in diverse educational environments, graduates of Lewis University build unique perspectives to assess abilities, adapt curricula and advocate for students in all walks of life.
With small class sizes and personalized instruction, the College of Education’s graduate degree programs offer students innovative, state-of-the-art technologies in a positive environment. The College of Education is broken down into five departments has a large offering of Master of Arts and Master of Science degree programs: Educational Leadership, Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, Reading and Literacy, Curriculum and Instruction, Secondary Education and Special Education.
Note: Those interested in distance learning programs should consult our recommendations for Online Master’s in Special Education.
Master of Arts in Special Education (M.A.)
The Master of Arts in Special Education degree program focuses on inclusionary systems and technology integration to prepare special education students of all ages and disabilities. The cross-categorical graduate program requires 46 credit hours to complete both theory-based classroom instruction and field experience. Candidates also have the opportunity to earn their Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBSI) Type 10 Certification upon completion.
Graduate students are trained in assessment and characteristics of children with emotional, learning, behavioral and cognitive disabilities. Curriculum development skills are based on a foundation of inclusion for all special needs children and utilize technologies for the use of best practice procedures. Additional courses are available in multicultural studies, language disorders and special education law.
A supervised student teacher internship in a special education environment is included. It is divided into two sessions of eight weeks each in elementary and secondary school settings. Successful completion of a special education State of Illinois exam is required prior to the student teacher assignment.
Accreditations
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association
Illinois State Teacher Certification Board
Illinois State Board of Education
Contact Information
Main Campus
One University Parkway
Romeoville, IL 60446-2200
(815) 838-0500
www.lewisu.edu/academics/coe/index.htm
Loyola University Chicago, IL
School of Education
Loyola University Chicago is a Jesuit and Catholic urban university. The School of Education supports educational professions serving humanity in an ethical manner and with social equality for all. Located at the center of Chicago provides the SOE with partnership opportunities for field experiences at public and private city schools as well as suburban institutions.
High-quality master’s degree programs are offered in numerous specializations and provide a knowledge base necessary for classroom and diverse urban locations. Master of Arts and Master of Education degree programs are available in:
-Community Counseling.
-Cultural and Educational Policy Studies.
-International Higher Education.
-Teacher Preparation Program.
-Behavioral Intervention Specialist.
-Elementary Education.
-English as a Second Language.
-Middle School Education.
-Secondary Education.
-Special Education with Teaching Endorsement.
Master of Education in Special Education with Teaching Endorsement
(M.Ed.) (K-12)
The Master of Education in Special Education degree program prepares students to be teachers for disabled children and adolescents (grades K-12). The curriculum is designed in a non-categorical standard for special needs including learning, mental, physical, behavioral and emotional disabilities. Graduates trained in this method are better able to teach students with multiple or complex requirements.
Candidates should already possess a general education endorsement as a prerequisite for the Learning Behavior Specialist I program. This fully accredited degree focuses on research for integration and inclusion techniques. In addition, acquired skills include developmental theory, academic and behavior assessment methods, adapting curriculum process for special needs children, consultation and collaboration with special education professionals and families.
The M.Ed. program requires 33 semester hours and a student teaching experience to earn the degree. An endorsement in Special Education Teaching is included in this series.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Illinois State Board of Education
Contact Information
820 N. Michigan Avenue
Lewis Towers, 11th Floor
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 915-6800
[email protected]
https://www.luc.edu/education/
McKendree University, IL
School of Education
McKendree University’s School of Education is committed to preparing teachers and education professionals to meet the diverse demands of today’s schools. Their mission is to guide students to be leaders in their profession with a passion for teaching and lifelong learning. Developing student knowledge, encouraging appreciation for diversity in ethnicities and cultures, and a strong sense of community service are additional goals at this institution of higher learning.
Master of Arts degree programs are offered for:
-Teacher Leadership.
-Educational Studies.
-Music Education.
-Educational Administration and Leadership.
-Higher Education Administrative Services.
-Special Education.
Special Endorsements are also available for Middle School, Reading Teacher and Special Education.
Master of Arts in Education: Special Education (MAED) (K-12)
The MAED degree in Special Education prepares students for a career as a Special Education teacher for elementary or secondary schools (grades K-12). The Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBSI) curriculum is designed for candidates needing an initial teaching licensure or active teachers who want to add the LBSI endorsement to their current license. Professional competence in special needs assessment, characteristics, psychology and curriculum adaptation are focus areas of this degree program. Methods for teaching children and youth with exceptionalities such as learning and behavioral disabilities, cognitive disorders and autism are incorporated into course work studies.
Initial licensure in Special Education requires 48 credit hours. Candidates with an elementary education licensure will need 36 credit hours and those with a secondary education license will complete 42 credit hours to complete the degree. All students must complete a student teaching or practicum field rotation under the supervision of a Special Education teacher.
Accreditations
The Higher Learning Commission
Illinois State Board of Education
Contact Information
701 College Road
Lebanon, IL 62254
(800) BEARCAT ext. 6576
(618) 537-6576
[email protected]
http://www.mckendree.edu/academics/info/education/index.php
National Louis University, IL
National College of Education
National Louis University’s National College of Education was founded in 1886 and one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the nation. NCE graduate programs granted the most Illinois teacher and administrator degrees in the state. The NLU is proud of its rich history but also embraces its cutting-edge innovations. This educational leader created kindergarten programs used in the United States today, instituted bachelor degree programs for elementary school teachers, founded the Parent Teacher Association and initiated the Head Start program.
A large number of master’s programs are available at National Louis University. Master of Education and Master of Science in Education are offered with concentrations in Administration and Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Psychology, Special Education and Technology in Education.
Master of Education in Special Education (M.Ed.) (K-12)
The Master of Education in Special Education is limited to students who have a current teaching certificate. This graduate degree program trains candidates to work with children and adolescents (grades K-12) with various disabilities. The series focuses on teaching individuals with learning and behavioral disabilities, cognitive disorders and high-functioning autism.
Required coursework includes: Cognition instruction, assessment methods, language development for special needs, literacy skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing communication), emotional and social effects on learning, plus collaborative team teaching proficiencies. A thorough clinical experience in a special education setting enables students to implement their skills in a real-life setting.
The M.Ed. curriculum is structured for work as a special education co-teacher in an inclusive classroom setting, collaborative consultant in a general education classroom, diagnostic teacher as a sole instructor or special education teacher in a private school. Upon graduation, students will qualify for an Illinois Professional Educator License with Learning Behavior Specialist I endorsement.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools,
Illinois State Board of Education
Contact Information
122 S. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603
(888) 658-8632
https://www.nl.edu/colleges/nationalcollegeofeducation/
Northeastern Illinois University, IL
College of Education
As one of the oldest and largest educational centers in Chicago, Northeastern Illinois University provides exceptional teacher training for all stages of learning. Programs are available for first-time college students, professional teachers and those individuals changing careers. U.S. News & World Report has ranked NEIU among the “Most Ethnically Diverse Universities” in the nation. The College of Education is dedicated to providing programs to meet the needs of a diverse student body.
The COE is divided into seven unique departments, each offering specialized training in the corresponding field of study. Master of Arts, Master of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching programs are available in the following disciplines: Language Arts Elementary and Secondary, Inner City Studies, School Counseling, Learning Behavior Specialist I, Early Childhood Special Education and Gifted Education. Developing leaders in education is the primary mission of the College of Education at Northeastern Illinois University.
Master of Arts: Learning Behavior Specialist I (M.A. – LBS-I) (P-12)
The Learning Behavior Specialist I graduate program provides training for initial certification in Illinois Special Education for grades P-12. This M.A. degree requires a total of 45 credit hours including coursework and internship. Techniques for teaching children and youth with learning and behavioral disabilities, mild to moderate cognition disorders, high-functioning autism and moderate to severe disabilities are provided in the curriculum.
The coursework structure is designed for the following learning outcomes: Understanding the characteristics and development of children and youth with disabilities, teaching methods for cognition, learning and language needs, technology use in special education, reading and writing instruction for the disabled, curriculum composition and testing.
A three-part intensive internship rotation is incorporated in the sequence – Internship I: Assessing and Teaching Individuals with Mild to Moderate Disabilities, Internship II: Assessing and Teaching Individuals with Moderate to Severe Disabilities and Internship III: Applied Teaching in Special Education.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Illinois State Board of Education
Contact Information
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625-4699
(773) 442-5500
Northern Illinois University, IL
College of Education
Northern Illinois University is proud to be designated by the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU) as a national “Innovation and Economic Prosperity University.” They are also listed as a finalist in a national award program as the “Best in Innovation-Economic Development.” The accolades continue with U.S. News & World Report ranking the online graduate program at NIU’s College of Education fourth in the United States.
In addition to a strong online graduate program listing through the College of Education, traditional campus bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are available in the following specialties: Bachelor of Science in Education: Special Education LBS-I, Master of Science Adult and Higher Education, Master of Science in Education – Early Childhood Education, Master of Science in Education – Elementary Education, Master of Science in Education: Special Education LBS-I and Master of Science in Education – Literacy Education.
Bachelor of Science in Education: Special Education Learning Behavior Specialist I OR Vision Impairments (B.S. Ed.) (K-12)
The Bachelor of Science in Education: Special Education degree has two disciplines for specialization. Both the Learning Behavior Specialist I and the Vision Impairments programs offer Type 10 Standard Special Certification by entitlement for teaching children and youth (K-12) with disabilities. Competency exams are required by the State Board of Education prior to licensure.
The LBS-I undergraduate degree leads to competencies in teaching children and youth with learning and behavior disabilities, intellectual/cognitive disorders and autism. The Vision Impairments entry-level program teaches the impact of visual impairment on child development, learning, literacy and communication, development of secondary senses, teaching strategies appropriate to age, impairment and prognosis, and instructional techniques for teaching children and youth with exceptionalities.
Master of Science in Education: Special Education Learning Behavior Specialist I (M.S. Ed.) (K-12)
The Special Education Learning Behavior Specialist I master’s degree program qualifies graduates to receive a teaching certificate in special education. Developmental, learning and physical disabilities, traumatic brain injury, behavior disorders and autism are child and adolescent exceptionalities addressed with this program.
An emphasis on methods for teaching elementary and secondary school students with disabilities gives graduate students skills on instructional procedures, assessment and adaptation techniques, curriculum planning for special needs, testing and progress reporting. Master’s students must select a specialization and complete a supervised special education field experience related to the selection. Content and Special Education General Curriculum tests must be taken prior to a student teaching assignment is approved. Prior to LBS-I certification, they must also pass the Assessment of Professional Teaching exam.
Master of Science in Education: Special Education Visual Impairments
(M.S. Ed.) (K-12)
Northern Illinois University’s College of Education features a prestigious visual disability master’s degree program. Graduate-level coursework provides training as a special education teacher of children and youth (grades K-12) with visual disabilities, an orientation and mobility specialist or a rehabilitation teacher. The Master of Science degree can combine all three areas of specialty or just one.
Areas of competency for each specialization include: Anatomy, pathology and functioning of the eye, literary braille, orientation and mobility instruction, communication methods for the visually impaired and collaboration techniques with professional advisors. A practicum and internship are used to practice orientation and mobility techniques in a special education setting.
National certification in Special Education with a Visual Impairments endorsement is available upon completion of the program through the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Illinois State Board of Education
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Contact Information
1425 W. Lincoln Highway
DeKalb, IL 60115-2828
(815) 753-1000
[email protected]
http://www.cedu.niu.edu/index.shtml
Saint Xavier University, IL
School of Education
Saint Xavier University’s School of Education has been successfully training teachers and administrators for many years. They have developed strong partnerships with urban and suburban school districts to provide significant field experiences.
Several graduate accredited graduate programs are available for professional studies in: Counseling, Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood, Educational Administration, Elementary, Secondary and Special Education. The School of Education has aligned its master’s degree programs with professional standards to best prepare teachers and administrators for today’s challenging education systems.
Master of Arts in Education: Multicategorical Special Education (M.Ed.) (K-12)
The Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Multicategorical Special Education is designed for candidates who want to become special education teachers, coordinators or private practitioners. An Illinois Type 10 Learning Behavior Specialist I certificate is available upon completion of the program.
The multicategorical special education degree focuses on identification, assessment and instruction of children and youth (grades K-12) with disabilities. Exceptionalities addressed are learning and behavioral disabilities, autism, physical disabilities, cognitive disorders and traumatic brain injury.
All master’s degree graduates will be skilled in disability assessment, curriculum and classroom planning, research methods, collaboration with professionals, co-teaching in a special education setting.
Accreditations
National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
Illinois State Board of Education
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact Information
3700 West 103rd Street
Chicago, IL 60655
(773)-298-3000
http://https://www.sxu.edu/catalog/current/undergraduate/ans/education-department.asp
