Special Education - Severe & Multiple Disabilities (MA)
Main Campus, Tucson, United States
Master of Arts in Special Education - Severe & Multiple Disabilities
University of Arizona
Special Education
Program Overview: MA in Special Education - Severe & Multiple Disabilities
The MA in Special Education with a specialization in Severe and Multiple Disabilities at the University of Arizona prepares aspiring educators to teach students with moderate to severe developmental, intellectual, and multiple disabilities, including students with deafblindness and autism with concurrent cognitive, sensory, and physical support needs. This professional degree program is housed within the College of Education and is offered at the Tucson campus with hybrid class delivery options.
The program is founded upon an inclusive education and person-centered approach, integrating evidence-based practices with an emphasis on augmentative and alternative communication strategies and curricular adaptations for instructing students with extensive support needs in K-12 and post-secondary education. Students who successfully complete the program and student teaching are eligible to apply for the Provisional Moderate to Severe (K-12) Special Education Teaching Certificate in the state of Arizona.
Courses are delivered in a hybrid model combining in-person and online instruction, providing flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards. The program culminates in a written comprehensive exam during the final semester rather than a thesis, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional practice in the field.
Key Program Highlights
- Leads to eligibility for the Arizona Provisional Moderate to Severe (K-12) Special Education Teaching Certificate
- Emphasis on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies and inclusive education practices
- Hybrid delivery model combining in-person and online coursework for maximum flexibility
- Hands-on student teaching experience with students who have extensive support needs across K-12 settings
Curriculum & Course Modules
The curriculum combines core special education coursework with specialized courses focused on severe and multiple disabilities. Students build a strong foundation in special education law, behavior principles, and assessment before advancing to specialized instruction in intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and inclusive practices.
SERP 500: Introduction to Special Education
3 unitsProvides a comprehensive overview of the field of special education, including historical foundations, legislation, and current practices for serving students with disabilities across educational settings.
SERP 502: Behavior Principles and Disability
3 unitsFocuses on the use of behavior principles to positively support individuals with disabilities, especially those with moderate and severe disabilities, including assessment and intervention strategies.
SERP 503: Special Education Law and Policy
3 unitsExamines legal responsibilities and concerns in school settings related to special education law, including IDEA, Section 504, and other relevant legislation affecting students with disabilities.
SERP 513: Assessing & Educating Students with Intellectual & Severe Disabilities
3 unitsCovers specialized assessment methods and instructional strategies for students with intellectual and severe disabilities, emphasizing functional approaches to curriculum design and implementation.
SERP 564: Introduction to Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders
3 unitsExplores the characteristics, assessment, and evidence-based instructional strategies for learners with autism spectrum disorders, including those with concurrent cognitive, sensory, and physical support needs.
SERP 504: Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Exceptional Learners
3 unitsProvides a theoretical base and practical approach to the study of special needs of students with language and cultural differences, addressing bilingual special education and culturally responsive practices.
Elective & Specialization Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA in Special Education - Severe and Multiple Disabilities program is competitive. Applicants are evaluated holistically based on academic achievement, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and a faculty interview. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on preparing a strong application.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required
- Minimum GPAGPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Academic BackgroundCoursework in Education, Psychology, or related fields is preferred
- Letters of RecommendationThree professional letters of recommendation from employers or professors
- Faculty InterviewAn interview with a program faculty member is required as part of the admissions process
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score required for non-native English speakers; contact Uni4Edu for current score requirements
- IELTSAccepted as proof of English proficiency; contact Uni4Edu for minimum band score
- ExemptionNative English speakers or graduates of English-medium institutions may be exempt from language testing
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Arizona College of Education offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for graduate students. Each year, the College of Education distributes more than USD 600,000 in scholarships to over 400 students. Contact Uni4Edu for assistance in identifying and applying for scholarships you may be eligible for.
College of Education Graduate Scholarships
VariesMerit-based and need-based scholarships available to all admitted College of Education graduate students, awarded through the university's Scholarship Universe platform on a competitive basis.
Graduate Access Fellowship
Up to USD 2,000 per semester for Master's studentsIntended to broaden access to graduate education for domestic students who demonstrate academic achievement despite facing challenging social, economic, or educational obstacles. Limited to three awards per academic department.
Graduate Assistantships
Stipend plus tuition benefitsTeaching and research assistantship positions that include a stipend, health insurance, out-of-state tuition waiver, and partial in-state tuition coverage. Positions are awarded by academic departments based on availability.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects & Opportunities
Graduates of the Severe and Multiple Disabilities MA program are prepared for high-demand roles in special education, particularly in inclusive K-12 settings. Most graduates go on to become inclusion specialists and special education teachers, with additional career pathways available in program coordination, instructional coaching, and early intervention services.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Arizona is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and is recognized as a leading public research university. The College of Education is well-regarded for its special education programs, and the university consistently ranks among top global institutions across multiple ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Education | U.S. News & World Report | Top 50 |
| Arts & Humanities | U.S. News & World Report | #58 |
| Special Education | College of Education | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Space Science | U.S. News & World Report | #10 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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