Master of Science - Students with Disabilities

The Master of Science in Students with Disabilities (Grades 1-6) offered by the SUNY Old Westbury School of Education is designed as a path to professional teacher certification in Students with Disabilities (Grades 1-6). The program is designed for both recent graduates who have completed the requirements for initial teacher certification at the undergraduate level and experienced teachers who seek professional certification in Special Education or an advanced degree.

The degree combines theory and practice and meets all relevant New York State Education Department professional certification requirements, including Common Core Learning Standards and all certification workshops. This 30-credit degree program comprises a 12-credit core that includes special education research, culturally responsive teaching, research methods and design, and research-based interventions in reading, writing, and literacy. Six credits of linked courses in advanced assessment and advocacy and leadership are also required, along with six credits of elective coursework that includes classes in administrative organization, collaboration and leadership, instructional and assistive technology, advanced behaviour management and instruction, applied behaviour analysis and methods of teaching in early childhood special education. The final six credits are for the capstone project in grades 1-6 in Students with Disabilities.

The SUNY Old Westbury School of Education offers academic programs offering bachelor's and master's degrees and meeting both the State of New York's initial and professional certification requirements. See the Undergraduate Programs and Graduate Programs pages to learn more about specific degrees that are offered. The New York State Education Department approves our programs, and we are proud members of the American Association of Quality Educator Preparation, anticipating AAQEP Accreditation in early 2022.

The Old Westbury degree programs provide professional courses and extensive field experience, including student teaching. All courses are designed to achieve competencies identified by local school district personnel and prescribed by the New York State Education Department.