Special Education M.Ed.—with Concentration in Early Childhood—Birth Through Grade 2
Admission Requirements
- Completion of all Feinstein School of Education and Human Development admission requirements.
- 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
- An application essay describing the candidate’s commitment to special education, cultural awareness, collaboration, and lifelong learning.
- An interview may be required.
- 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). Students currently matriculated in Rhode Island College’s B.S. in Early Childhood Education program may take up to 6 credits prior to submitting documentation of Rhode Island certification as an Early Childhood Education Teacher.
Course Requirements
Program Prerequisites
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
| | 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
| SPED 513 | Orientation to the Education of Young Children with Special Needs | 3 | Summer. |
| SPED 516 | Programs for Young Children with Disabilities | 3 | Spring. |
| SPED 517 | Medical Aspects of Developmental Disabilities | 3 | Spring. |
| SPED 525 | Development of Communication and Movement | 3 | Fall. |
| SPED 544 | Families in Early Intervention Programs: Essential Roles | 3 | Fall. |
| SPED 561 | Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders | 3 | Fall (as needed). |
| SPED 668 | Internship in Inclusive Early Childhood | 3 | Fall, Spring, Summer. |
| SPED 669 | Internship in Early Intervention | 3 | Fall, Spring, Summer. |
Comprehensive Assessment
| CA | Comprehensive Assessment | 0 | Fall, Spring. |
Total Credit Hours: 30