Special Education

The Special Education Programs prepare candidates for distinguished careers in Special Education and for leadership roles in schools and communities.

Program Highlights

M.S. in Special Education - Initial/Professional Certification

The M.S. in Special Education Program is designed for teachers who hold initial or provisional classroom certification and wish to get a master's degree and become certified in Special Education.

• 30 credit hour program
• Can be completed in 5 semesters
• Structured around working professionals' schedules
• Classes are offered in the evening
• Starts in the Fall semester

Special Education Advanced Certification

The Advanced Certification in Special Education program is for teachers who are permanently/professionally certified and want to add the Special Education Certification.

• 18 credit hour program
• Classes are offered in the evening
• Starts in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters
• Flexible schedule - can take one, two or three classes each semester

General Application Requirements

• Completed Application Form [pdf] or Online Application
• Application fee
• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work (if applicable)
• Two Letters of Recommendation [pdf]
• Current résumé
• Personal statement*
• Results of the (TOEFL) for students whose native language is not English
• Transfer Request Form [pdf] and supporting documents (if applicable)

* Provide information about yourself, your goals and plans for the future, and reason for graduate study in your chosen field. The personal statement should be approximately 300-500 words in length. You may submit your personal statement electronically to grad@sjfc.edu or mail it to St. John Fisher College, Office of Graduate Admissions.

Program-Specific Application Requirements

• A copy of New York State Teaching Certification is required or proof of pending certification is required for students just completing their undergraduate studies