Overview
The graduate-level special education program in severe or multiple disabilities at Fisher prepares teachers for distinguished careers in special education and is designed for those who are seeking a deeper understanding of special education laws and best practices, with a focus on students with severe and multiple disabilities.
The 30 credit-hour (10 classes) master's program features integrated coursework and practicum and is completed in three semesters. Materials within classes are tailored to fit the specific grade levels (childhood or adolescence) you will teach.
The program is offered in a hybrid format with a combination of online and in-seat courses in a supportive learning environment.
The program can be used for NYS professional certification requirements. Additionally, the Severe and Multiple Disabilities Annotation will attach to grade level initial certification.
Admission Requirements
The graduate-level special education programs operate on a rolling admissions basis. Applications are reviewed as they are received and admissions decisions are made within four weeks of receipt of a completed application.
General Application Requirements
- Completed online application
- Application fee
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
- Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work (if applicable)
- Two letters of recommendation which can be submitted online. Please refer to the online application for instructions.
- Current résumé and personal goals statement
- Results of the TOEFL (if native language is not English)
- Graduate Transfer Credit Request Form [pdf] and supporting documents (if applicable)
Program-Specific Application Requirements
- A copy of New York state teaching certification OR proof of pending certification is required for students just completing their undergraduate studies.
- To comply with New York state regulations, applicants to graduate-level teacher professional certification programs who do not have a master's degree must provide St. John Fisher College with scores from either of the following:
-
- Miller Analogies Test (MAT)*
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE)*
- Note: Applicants who already have a master's degree are exempt from submitting test scores.
- Applicants must have earned a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 for baccalaureate degrees from approved postsecondary institutions.
*Test scores are valid on these exams for five years. Please contact the Office of Transfer and Graduate Admissions at grad@sjfc.edu or (585) 385-8064 to inquire about minimum scores required on these exams.