Special Education M.Ed.—with Concentration in Early Childhood—Birth Through Grade 2

Admission Requirements

1. Completion of all Feinsten School of Education and Human Development admission requirements.
2. Completion of SPED 300, SPED 310, and SPED 415 or their equivalent as determined by the Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) advisor are required for Rhode Island Department of Education early childhood special education certification
3. An application essay describing the candidate’s commitment to special education, cultural awareness, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
4. An interview may be required.
5. An M.Ed. in special education with concentration in early childhood—birth to Grade 2 requires that the student is eligible for Rhode Island certification in early childhood education (possesses certification in early childhood education).

Course Requirements

Program Pre-Requisites

SPED 300, SPED 310, SPED 415 or their equivalent and an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education are required for Rhode Island Department of Education early childhood special education certification.

Program Electives

Course	Title	Credits	Offered
	ONE COURSE in research methods, chosen with advisor’s consent	3
	ONE COURSE in multicultural perspectives, chosen with advisor’s consent	3

Professional Education Component

Course	Title	Credits	Offered
SPED 513	Orientation to the Education of Young Children with Special Needs	3	Offered spring.
SPED 516	Programs for Young Children with Disabilities	3	Offered fall.
SPED 517	Medical Aspects of Developmental Disabilities	3	Offered spring.
SPED 525	Development of Communication and Movement	3	Offered fall.
SPED 544	Families in Early Intervention Programs: Essential Roles	3	Offered spring.
SPED 561	Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders	3	Offered fall (as needed).
SPED 668	Internship in Inclusive Early Childhood	3	Offered fall.
SPED 669	Internship in Early Intervention	3	Offered spring.

Comprehensive Assessment

Total Credit Hours: 30