UNCW’s Watson College of Education has introduced a new Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education. The program is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field who would like to teach children with disabilities at any grade level in North Carolina public schools.
“We are excited to offer a new MAT in Special Education,” said Tracy Linderholm, Dean of UNCW’s Watson College of Education. “North Carolina, like many states, has a significant teacher shortage, and the shortage is particularly acute in the field of special education. This program builds on UNCW’s strong bachelor’s degree in special education and the successful family of MAT programs that the college currently offers.”
Students who enroll in the new graduate program can select from two concentrations: Special Education: General Curriculum, which prepares special educators to teach individuals with mild to moderate disabilities or Special Education: Adapted Curriculum, which prepares educators to teach learners with significant intellectual and multiple disabilities.
WCE’s master's degree program in Special Education can be completed in two years. The program combines online evening courses with hands-on field experience to provide maximum flexibility for working professionals. During the final semester, students will participate in full-time student teaching under the guidance of a mentor teacher and faculty supervisor. Successful completion of the program will prepare students for obtaining North Carolina Special Education (K-12) teacher certification.
“The Watson College has a very strong special education program at the undergraduate level,” said Sharon Richter, coordinator of WCE’s MAT in Special Education program. “All courses are taught by dedicated faculty with extensive knowledge in this specialty field, and our collaborative partnerships with schools and community-based organizations enable us to provide students with extensive hands-on experience so that they are prepared to be highly effective special education teachers. We are excited to expand our degree offerings and look forward to welcoming the first cohort of students to the new MAT program in the fall.”
Applications for the new MAT in Special Education are open and classes begin in fall 2025. For more information, please visit the website or contact program coordinator Dr. Sharon Richter at richters@uncw.edu.
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