Master's Degree in Special Education - Mild-to-Moderate Disabilities in Baltimore United States | Johns Hopkins University

The Master of Science in Special Education focusing on Mild-to-Moderate Disabilities equips future educators to work with students who have emotional, intellectual, and learning challenges. This curriculum covers essential topics including legal frameworks, psychoeducational evaluations, data-driven decision-making, teaching strategies, behavior intervention techniques, and collaboration between general and special education teachers. Upon completion, graduates qualify for Maryland's special education certification, which is recognized by numerous other states. The program offers two specialization paths: elementary/middle school (grades 1–8) and secondary/adult education (grades 6–12). All participants undertake two supervised internships to apply evidence-based practices from their coursework in real classroom settings. Elementary/middle track candidates complete internships with grades 1–8 students, while secondary/adult track candidates work with grades 6–12 learners. Beyond coursework and internships, requirements include passing a comprehensive exam, completing either a Teaching Video Analysis Project with Presentation or a Graduate Project/Presentation, and achieving passing scores on Praxis II exams for state certification. Graduates may then apply for Maryland certification in their specialization area. The program additionally features a Special Education Teacher Immersion Training (SET-IT) cohort designed specifically for Montgomery County Public Schools paraeducators and permanent school staff, which can be finished in five semesters (though all coursework must be completed within five years).