Exceptional Student Education (M.S.)

Barry University offers graduate degree programs and endorsement courses in Exceptional Student Education (ESE). A master's degree is offered in ESE. Endorsements in Gifted Education and Autism can be added to the degree program.

The Master's degree (M.S.) program in ESE for initial certification is a state approved program which includes the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) competencies, enabling candidates to graduate with an ESOL endorsement in addition to their certification in ESE (grades K - 12).

The M.S. degree program in ESE with an ESOL endorsement is a 58-semester hour program beyond the Bachelor's degree. Without the ESOL endorsement, the program is 36-semester hours.

The program offers a comprehensive background for education professionals interested in meeting the needs of children and youth with exceptionalities. The program enables candidates to understand a variety of exceptionalities and to plan and collaborate with other professionals on appropriate programming for students with learning and/or behavioral problems. The program also places a strong emphasis on meeting the needs of culturally and/or linguistically diverse students with exceptionalities. Current issues and trends in the field of special education are also addressed throughout the program.

The ESE program enables candidates to obtain state certification in ESE (grades K-12) with an ESOL endorsement. Upon completion of the program, graduates will have acquired the ability to:

• Teach students with varying mild exceptionalities in different instructional settings
• Identify a variety of exceptionalities
• Assess exceptional students' learning and behavioral needs
• Plan appropriate programs in cooperation with a multi disciplinary team
• Implement and evaluate comprehensive student programs and progress based on legal mandates
• Work collaboratively with other education professionals
• Coordinate multiple student plans
• Use appropriate strategies and plan instruction for students with exceptionalities who are speakers of other languages and are from diverse backgrounds
• Integrate the use of computers and related technologies in Exceptional Student Education

Special tuition rates are offered for educators. Students may also qualify for tuition reimbursement from the State of Florida and local school districts.

Students who do not have a Florida Professional Certificate or have a Bachelor's degree in an area other than education may still enroll in the program and complete the required pre-requisite methods courses.

Accommodating Working Professionals

The graduate Exceptional Student Education (ESE) degree programs at Barry University are designed for the working professional. Classes are taught in eight- and sixteen-week cycles. Most ESE core courses (i.e., courses with an ESE prefix) are offered on Saturdays; other required and pre-requisite courses are offered on week nights.