M.Ed. Degree Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 45 quarter credits, 49 quarter credits for Special Education. There are seven required program components:

1. Core Courses

The core courses provide the background, perspectives, and resources necessary for in-depth work in an area of specialization. They prepare individuals to understand the basics of theory and research in education. All students are required to complete a total of 13 quarter credits as follows:

2. Study Options

The study option provides focused study in one specialized area of education. Students must select one study option and complete required courses:

• At Risk Learner


• Curriculum and Instruction
  
• Multicultural Education


• Special Education


• Teaching English Language Learners (TELL)

3. Technology Course

Students must complete a technology course selected in consultation with an adviser. Normally, students complete TEDUC 566, Education and Technology.

4. Education Electives

The education electives provide an opportunity to explore areas of individual interest and gain depth in specific content. Courses must be selected from offerings within the Master of Education program and in consultation with an adviser. Note that there are several study options that do not include an education elective component.

5. Non-Education Electives

Students must complete a minimum of three quarter credits (maximum 10 credits) of non-education electives outside of the Master of Education program. These credits must be at least 400 level and can be selected from other UWT academic programs. For students seeking an endorsement, these credits must be taken within their content area.

6. Comprehensive Examination

The Comprehensive Examination is a written essay exam taken prior to the Culminating Experience. It assesses students' knowledge of the core courses. The test will take approximately four hours.

7. Culminating Experience

Each student will participate in a Culminating Experience. This component of the program allows students to gain more applied knowledge of the field, and synthesize prior learning. There are two pathways for this experience as outlined below: Project Pathway and Practicum Pathway. Students select the pathway for their Culminating Experience in consultation with their academic adviser.

Students completing the Special Education and At-Risk study options must enroll in the Practicum Pathway option.

Project Pathway

The Project Pathway will provide you with the opportunity to engage in systematic, reflective inquiry within the context of your current educational setting and/or broader contemporary educational issues.

Practicum Pathway

The Practicum Pathway is intended to provide students the opportunity to integrate and apply theory and research in working with at-risk students to an educational setting.

WEST-E/Praxis II Examination:

A passing score on the WEST-E/Praxis II exam is required for any student wishing to add an endorsement to their teaching certificate. For more information go to the WEST-E/Praxis Series Website.