This program provides teachers with the expansive knowledge base needed to work with children who present with special learning needs, including children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and to meet their unique academic and social needs. The knowledge base includes a wide range of instructional methodologies, including universal design for learning, assistive technology, critical thinking skills, and the ability to modify the classroom to accommodate special needs children.

Candidates are to be aware that the M.A.T. in Special Education includes a choice of coursework in varying exceptionalities or specialization in autism spectrum disorders following completion of the first 21 credits in the TOSD eligibility program. The candidate must notify Graduate Admissions of his/her program choice. The candidate will not be cleared to graduate unless coursework is appropriate to the M.A.T. option of choice.

COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS

To maintain eligibility for continued enrollment in the Teacher of Students with Disabilities endorsement eligibility program or the Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education program, candidates must maintain a minimum graduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0 out of 4.0 throughout their course of study at the University. Falling below a 3.0 GPA will result in removal with no recourse for readmission.

On successful completion of the TOSD program, candidates may apply for the endorsement through the Center for Teacher Preparation and Partnerships in P203A. They submit an application for the TOSD along with a copy of their New Jersey teaching certificate (CEAS or Standard) in an instructional area of general education. 

Candidates must successfully pass a comprehensive (Praxis II) examination for the degree. Practice materials are available through the Frank Guarini library. The Praxis is not required by the State of New Jersey, however, it is required for the degree. Candidates are encouraged to contact the special education office for further information. 

At the candidate’s request ETS will send the score must send their score to the Registrar’s Office

Candidates must also scan and send their score to the Administrative Assistant in the Department of Special Education:
     
Renita Bhimdass, Administrative Assistant
Department of Special Education
New Jersey City University
Professional Studies Building, Room 350
2039 Kennedy Blvd.
Jersey City, NJ 07305
Phone: 201-200-3023
Fax: 201-200-3119

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate mastery of the subject matter they plan to teach.
2. Demonstrate their pedagogical knowledge, integrating their understanding of their pupils’ developmental levels, individual differences, learning exceptionalities, and sociocultural backgrounds.
3. Demonstrate effective instruction, caring behavior, and reflection to improve practice.
4. Know and value how individuals are shaped by their life experiences as mediated by factors such as social class, gender, race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, age, and social needs. Candidates will value, and engage in culturally responsive teaching to promote social justice, particularly in our urban areas.
5. Integrate technology purposefully and meaningfully in teaching and carrying out their professional responsibilities.