M.Ed. in Special Education
The M.Ed. in special education provides a course of study that develops professionals who can positively influence the learning and behaviors of persons with disabilities.
Multiple endorsement options include:
- Special education–general curriculum (learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, mental retardation)
- Early childhood special education
- Autism spectrum disorders
Scholarships
Lynchburg College's 12-hour Autism Program is a Virginia Autism Council (VAC) approved program,and students in the program are eligible to apply for scholarships from VAC.
Contact Information
For Application:
Office of Graduate Studies at 434/544-8383 or gradstudies@lynchburg.edu
For information about the program:
Dr. Gena Barnhill, Special Education, 434/544-8771 or barnhill@lynchburg.edu
Twelve-hour certificate program
Overview
With the increasing prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), it is critical that educators are prepared to meet the needs of these individuals. This program is designed to prepare teachers and related service providers to recognize, manage,and support individuals with ASD in schools and in the community.
Coursework can be taken separately from, or integrated into, the M.Ed. in special education.
Designed to meet the needs of
- General education teachers
- Special education teachers
- School psychologists
- Related service providers
- Persons interested in developing skills to work with individuals with ASD
Curriculum
SPED 670 Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders (3 credit hours, offered in summer) Overview of the nature of autism and related developmental disabilities.
SPED 671 Instructional and Behavioral Assessment and Programming for Students with ASD (3 credit hours, offered fall semester) Basic methods of assessment, data collection, and instruction, with focus on communication, social, and behavioral skills. Training is provided in best practice methods such as discrete trial instruction, verbal language, social stories, and the use of visual schedules.
SPED 672 Medical and Sensory Aspects of ASD: Collaboration among Parents, Educators, and Related Service Providers (3 credit hours, offered spring semester)Overview of medical research on etiology and interventions in clinics, home, and schools. Included are strategies for team building and collaboration.
SPED 694 Field Experience with Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (3 credit hours, offered summer or fall) Assessment and instruction of individuals with ASD.