Nov 09, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Catalog

Education, M.A. Disability Studies Emphasis - 31 units


The Masters of Arts in Education, designed for educational professionals and leaders, provides advanced preparation in the study of research issues confronting educators and schooling systems. There are two emphases– Curriculum and Instruction and Disability Studies– created for specific populations of professionals seeking to apply their graduate learning towards their career goals.

Admission to the Master of Arts in Education

1. Application– Apply to both the University Admissions office and the School of Education, Graduate Program.

2. One Set of Official Transcripts– One official set of transcripts from each of the colleges or universities attended must be mailed directly to the CI Admissions office. Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required for acceptance into the Master of Arts in Education. Students with a GPA lower than 3.0 may qualify by taking the GRE and achieving minimum threshold scores.

3. Two Letters of Recommendation– Two letters of recommendation from professionals who are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional work.

4. Interview - Interview with the School of Education Admissions Committee.

5. Writing Sample– A written statement of purpose (500-600 word essay) describing why the candidate desires to obtain a Master’s in Education in the chosen emphasis. This essay will include reflection on personal and professional goals, and the ways in which the knowledge and skills will be developed to achieve these goals.

Program Maintenance Requirements

Students must maintain a grade point average of 3.0 (B) or better with no course grades lower than a C+. The progress of students in meeting this requirement and in progressing toward completion in a timely manner will be monitored at the conclusion of each term.

Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement

Writing proficiency for the awarding of the degree is demonstrated by successful completion of EDUC 615 - Principles of Educational Research with a grade of B or higher.

Advancement to Candidacy

Advancement to Candidacy represents the formulation of an official program of study for a master’s degree in the School of Education. It establishes your catalog rights and forms the basis of your degree audit when you are ready to graduate. At least one semester prior to graduation, you must advance to candidacy, which is when you receive approval of your program of study from your Graduate Advisor. You must be enrolled when you advance to candidacy. Advancement to Candidacy is a prerequisite for enrolling in the culminating experience (thesis or comprehensive examination). Students are eligible to advance to candidacy and must meet the following requirements before submitting the Advancement to Candidacy Worksheet:

1. Successful completion of the course identified to fulfill the campus Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement.

2. Resolve incomplete grades, if applicable.

3. Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative and program grade point average.

4. Complete six units of program requirements, program prerequisites (if applicable), and any other program requirements for advancement to candidacy.

Emphasis in Disability Studies - 12 units


The Disability Studies (DS) Emphasis prepares teachers and professionals for leadership roles in the field of special education and disabilities. Completion of this degree prepares graduates to further expand their knowledge of individuals with disabilities of diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It equips practitioners with the knowledge of best practice and policies for working with students with disabilities and their families.

Careers

The Master of Arts in Education, Disability Studies Emphasis prepares graduates for leadership positions in the field of special education and disabilities. These leaders can develop, implement, and evaluate programs and policies for individuals with disabilities; mentor special education teachers and allied professionals; conduct professional development and research; serve on policy committees; and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Elective Courses - 6 units


  • Six units 500-level and higher

    (Three units must have a SPED prefix and up to six units may be transferred from credential coursework or 500-level or higher courses)

Culminating Experience and Preparation Courses - 7 units


Select Thesis or Comprehensive Exam Option:

Thesis Option


Comprehensive Exam Option