MA Special Education, LBS1

The Master of Arts Degree in Special Education is designed for the licensed educator who desires to become an accomplished special education teacher as well as earn an Illinois* LBS1 endorsement. This program is designed to provide teachers interested in special education the knowledge and skills to work in a continuum of special education services (e.g., self-contained through inclusive). Graduates will be prepared to demonstrate competency and proficiency as a special education teacher regarding state and national special education standards (2020), informed by Individualized General Curriculum and Individualized Independence Curriculum standards (CEC, 2015). Emphasis on methods, assistive technology, and assessment for the following learners with disabilities' access needs includes: learning disabilities, social/emotional disabilities (internationally known as, and otherwise known as, emotional/behavioral disorders), intellectual disabilities /cognitive disabilities (internationally known and formerly known as, mental retardation), physical disabilities, autism, multiple disabilities, other health impairment, and traumatic brain injury. The endorsement is designed for K-12 teachers: the LBS1 endorsement is issued for Kindergarten through age 22 on the student’s existing Illinois Professional Educator License.

*The LBS1 Endorsement requires Illinois licensure. Students with out-of-state licensure are welcome to enroll in the MA Special Education program, but are not eligible for the Illinois LBS1 Endorsement. Questions regarding reciprocity by state should be directed towards the student’s state of licensure, or ISBE.net (Illinois State Board of Education).

Learning Objectives

This program will enable candidates to:

• Build and strengthen a theoretical understanding of the foundations of special education.
• Increase knowledge and skills in evidenced-based assessment methods, curriculum, instructional design and practice.
• Examine issues of the continuum of special education services, inclusion and least restrictive environment, special education educational systems, and special education policy and law.
• Apply strategies and skills developed in coursework through practicum experiences.
• Conduct research to answer questions related to special education practices and successfully meeting the needs of all learners.

Program Requirements

• Two years of teaching acquired prior to completion of the graduate program 
• Hold a valid initial or existing Professional Teaching License (PEL)
• Completion of 30 credit hours of course work 

Endorsement Process