MEd IN SPECIAL EDUCATION
All special education teacher preparation programs require coursework, an assessment portfolio and evidence of knowledge and skills as measured by the COE Performance Observation Assessment (POA) instrument which aligns with the Conceptual Framework for the Professional Education Unit (PEU). MEd candidates will also conduct field-based research.

Masters of Education in Special Education
**Advance Preparation**
This application process involves admission to School of Graduate Studies and admission into program candidacy.

1. Admission to School of Graduate Studies

Apply for admission to Graduate Studies via the AASU School of Graduate Studies located in Victor Hall, second floor, or call 912-344-2798 or go to http://gs.armstrong.edu/admissions.html
In addition to the Graduate Studies requirements, you also must submit or have the following:

• Verified , clear renewable teaching certificate
• Official transcript(s) from undergraduate degree.
• Official transcripts from any graduate level courses completed
• Verification of a 2.50 or higher GPA on an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university

2. Once admitted into the AASU graduate school, students meet with an advisor to discuss and set their program of study and review requirements for admission into candidacy which means the student is next admitted into the Special Education Program in the College of Education. Students must fulfill all prerequisites including prerequisite coursework prior to admission into candidacy.

• An essay on a topic relevant to the field of special education (To be written under supervision on campus) and interview with department faculty
• Completion of LiveText training module and an activated account (go to www.education.armstrong.edu/livetext )
• Completion of the required research course plus a foundation course with a “B” or better in each
• A meeting with an advisor to review the program of study and secure guidance on how to proceed with the application process

These documents are in PDF format and require the free Adobe Reader

• Candidacy Application Checklist (to be filled out by advisor)
• Candidacy Application Form
• Criminal Background Check Consent form (for required field experiences)
• Two PEU Candidate Disposition Forms completed by two AASU professors (Must be submittted in LiveText) Access directions here

3. Program of Study
4. Decision Points (contact advisor) and Professional Portfolio
5. Steps for Certification and Graduation (see your advisor for specific information and guidance)

NOTE: If a course in your program of study requires that you work in a school setting, you will be required to submit a signed permission form for a criminal background check.