salemstate.edu/graduate
Our initial licensure graduate programs in special education prepare teachers to work with students with moderate disabilities in grades pre-k through 8 or 5 through 12. Our initial licensure programs are approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Our graduate program for advanced study in special education allows interested candidates to earn a master’s degree without earning an initial teaching license. This is relevant for people who already hold a license in special education, individuals who hold teaching licenses in other fields and want to have expertise in special education without adding a new license area, and those who teach or work in related fields and want the graduate credential without the focus on classroom instruction.
For those who are looking to add expertise in working with children on the autism spectrum, we offer a graduate state endorsement in autism studies that can be embedded in a master’s program or stand alone.
Whether you want to become a teacher, strengthen your existing teaching skills, or simply take courses to improve your ability to work with individuals who have exceptional learning needs, our graduate programs in special education can take you there.
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
In addition to our master’s and licensure only programs, we offer a 12-credit graduate state endorsement for educators seeking advanced study in working with children identified with autism spectrum disorders. Coursework includes interventions in the classroom and home, an overview or ASD, and family impact and advocacy.
For more info visit salemstate.edu/graduate.
PROGRAM
Our program is geared toward cultivating the skills, methods, and strategies needed to support students with mild to moderate special education needs for inclusion in general education classrooms. We offer three program options to meet a variety of student needs:
• Master’s + initial license for those seeking a first license in Massachusetts (variable credit from 30-42, including 300-hour practicum)
• Initial licensure only for those who already hold a master’s degree or a license in another teaching area (18-42 credits, including 300 hour practicum, depending on prior coursework and competencies met)
• Master’s only for those who already hold an initial license and are seeking advanced skills and knowledge in special education (30 credits, no practicum required)
Practicum: Licensure programs require a 300-hour practicum, completed in a fall or spring semester, designed to provide students with in depth experience working in the field. We have a strong network of schools throughout the North Shore for those seeking placement. Educators already working in the classroom may usually complete their practicum at their place of employment if desired.
The programs that lead to initial licensure also require a minimum of 75 hours of fieldwork completed prior to practicum. This must be done across multiple grade levels and a variety of settings
CURRICULUM
Our robust curriculum will prepare students to facilitate inclusive learning in the classroom, collaborate with peers and parents about best practices, and learn how to balance the needs of all learners in a general education classroom. Students will have opportunities to pursue concentrations in autism spectrum disorders, elementary education, reading, and literacy.
SAMPLE COURSES
EDU 801 Classroom Management and Positive Behavioral Supports
EDS 810 Assistive and Adaptive Technology
EDS 891 Instructional Methods in Special Education
EDU 990e Effective UDL Classroom Practices
FACTS AND FIGURES
• Salem State has been a leader in teacher education for more than 160 years
• Our licensure programs are approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
• Learn from expert faculty with specializations in early childhood literacy and disability; autism and social behavioral disorders; supporting college students with cognitive disabilities; and experience working as special education teachers and administrators
• Flexible evening, weekend, online, and hybrid class formats available to meet the needs of working professionals
• On-site school of education services center dedicated to helping students navigate state licensure requirements and providing MTEL support
CAREERS
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for special education teachers in Massachusetts is $88,380*, making it one of the top five highest-paying states nationwide for this profession. In the Boston-CambridgeNashua, MA-NH metropolitan area, the annual mean wage is $94,080*.
Almost 100% of graduates from our master’s and initial licensure programs have secured employment in the field or advanced in their current positions upon completing their degree.
*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: Special Education Teachers, All Other*. Retrieved from www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252059.htm#st
MEd, Special Education with Initial Licensure
MEd, Special Education Advanced Studies
Academic writing sample MTEL Communication and Literacy Scores*; Child or Adolescent Development course.
Passing score on the MTEL Communication and Literacy Test*; Child or Adolescent Development course.
An initial educator license or minimum of three years of experience working with children on the Autism spectrum or in a related area and/or; permission of the program coordinator.
*MTEL requirement has been waived for admissions purposes through Spring 2026.
COST
For Massachusetts residents, each credit costs $464.30,* which includes tuition and fees. For non-Massachusetts residents, each credit costs $559.40.* The program is 30 to 42 credits (excluding prerequisites).
For assistance funding your graduate education, options such as financial aid, graduate assistantships, employer reimbursement and tuition remission, and veteran’s benefits may be available.
*Tuition and fees subject to change.
