Overview

The Exceptional Child Education programme at Southeast Missouri State University provides a comprehensive framework for teachers looking to deepen their expertise in special education. This master's degree offers a robust academic foundation for those dedicated to making a significant impact in the lives of diverse learners.

This programme is specifically designed to provide general educators with the practical tools and methodologies required to support students with special needs within a mainstream classroom. It also serves to enhance the professional knowledge and pedagogical skills of existing special education practitioners.

Students can tailor their studies by selecting from several distinct emphasis areas, including Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Mild/Moderate Cross-Categorical.

Why Exceptional Child Education at Southeast Missouri State University?

The university has a prestigious history of preparing educators that dates back to 1873, ensuring a reputation built on longevity and excellence. The College of Education is fully accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, reflecting high academic standards.

The institution has received national recognition from several professional bodies, including the Council for Exceptional Children and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Students benefit from facilities such as the Southeast Autism Centre for practical experience and research opportunities.

Learners work closely with expert advisors to conduct research that addresses real-world challenges encountered in their own teaching environments. The programme also offers the chance to earn additional certificates in Autism Spectrum Disorder or Missouri teaching credentials in specific specialisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 395 per credit
• National fee: USD 395 per credit
• Local fee: USD 395 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Research in Action
• Educational Assessment Techniques
• Psychology & Education of Students with Special Needs
• Special Education and the Law
• Methods of Research: Qualitative and Quantitative Designs
• Master's Final Comprehensive Exam
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Communication Interventions and Strategies for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Behavior Management and Interventions for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Research Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Transition Planning for Individuals with Exceptional Learning Needs
• Teaching Elementary School Mathematics
• Diagnosis and Remediation of Difficulties in Learning Mathematics
• Behavior Management
• Effective Literacy Instruction at the Middle and Secondary Levels
• Multimedia in Education
• Educational Technology
• AI in Education

Careers with Exceptional Child Education

Graduates are prepared for a variety of leadership and specialist roles within the education sector. The programme provides the necessary credentials to pursue advanced positions in schools, private organisations, and community support centres focused on inclusive learning.

Common career paths for alumni include roles such as Autism Consultants, Early Childhood Functional Skills Teachers, and Directors of Inclusive Programmes. The degree also assists professionals in meeting continuing education requirements for maintaining teaching licensure.

The university’s Career Services office provides dedicated support to help students transition into these roles. This includes assistance with networking and identifying employment opportunities in diverse educational industries across the region and beyond.