Educational Learning

Master's Degree Programs

EDS has four Master's Degree programs, each aimed at increasing the knowledge and skills of professional educators. The Special Education and TESOL master's degree programs also prepare those individuals seeking initial teaching qualifications.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about applying to EDS graduate programs.

 

Please note: Each of our master's programs has separate advisement materials (at right) and each is listed separately on the Graduate School's on-line application. Please read the descriptions below to carefully determine to which program you are applying. Submitting incorrect forms or listing the wrong degree choice on the Graduate School's application may delay the processing of your application.

 

A limited number of graduate assistantships are available to full-time graduate students in the EDS Department. All master's degrees in EDS require some form of culminating experience prior to graduation.

Application and advisement materials for all programs are linked at right in PDF format (Acrobat Reader required).

 

Master's Degree Programs include:

 

Masters Degrees in Literacy Studies

Masters degree programs in Literacy Studies enable teachers to receive Nevada endorsement as Reading Specialists and/or to further develop their expertise in teaching reading, spelling, vocabulary, writing, and related areas with their classrooms. A nationally-recognized faculty offer courses on a wide range of topics, with both the Master of Education (M.Ed., non-thesis) and the Master of Arts (M.A., thesis) degree options available. 40 credits minimum. The Lemelson Project a cohort program for selected Washoe County School District teachers earning their master's degrees through the sponsorship of Mrs. Dorothy Lemelson. More information about the Literacy Studies Program. More information about the literacy studies program

 

Master's Degrees in Special Education

The Master's Degree in Special Education has both the Master of Education (M.Ed., non-thesis) and the Master of Arts (M.A., thesis) degree options, with 39 credits minimum. Specializations within these degree options may lead to Nevada teaching endorsements or may be designed according to candidate interests and goals. Those seeking first-time teaching licensure will have additional course requirements. Specializations include:

  • Generalist Endorsement in Mild to Moderate Disabilities
  • Moderate to Profound Mental Retardation
  • Specific Learning Disabilities
  • Serious Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
  • Autism
  • Early Childhood Special Education/Early Intervention

A federally funded program (TEESET) may provide support for students seeking master's degrees in mental retardation, emotional disturbance, or early childhood special education and who meet specific criteria. More information about the special education program

New information about the federal loan forgiveness program for special education teachers at http://www.ed.gov/policy/highered/guid/secletter/060301a.html

 

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Master of Arts Degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The MA TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) Program is designed for both native and non-native speakers of English who wish to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) or EFL (English as a Foreign Language). The degree prepares candidates for employment as teachers, program directors, curriculum consultants, or materials developers. Two tracks are available for those who wish to (a) work with adults or (b) work in K-12 settings. A state teaching license is required for those working in K-12 settings in Nevada. The TESOL web site provides additional information. 39 credits minimum.

 

Master's Degrees in Equity and Diversity in Educational Settings

The Master's Degree in Equity and Diversity in Educational Settings has both the Master of Education (M.Ed., non-thesis) and the Master of Science (M.S., thesis) degree options. These degrees offer K-12 teachers advanced study focusing on diverse students, with special attention paid to gender, language, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and exceptionality. Study may also focus on inclusive teaching methodologies with diverse learners in the areas of civic education, mathematics, and/or science education. 39 credits minimum. More information

 

 

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