Administrator

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* Special Education
- Moderate & Severe Disabilities
- Assistive Special Education Technology
- Language & Literacy Program in Reading
- Behavioral Education
- Administrator of SPED and Supervisor/Director
- Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis
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» Administrator of
special education and Supervisor/Director program

The Administrator of Special Education program and Supervisor/Director program prepare educators for Massachusetts licensure as an administrator of special education or supervisor/director. The 40-credit program features an integrated, practical curriculum with an emphasis on providing administrative expertise to educators and staff working with learners with special needs. Coursework develops instructional and administrative leadership skills, with seminars and critical projects that address topics such as budgeting, demographics, program review, staff development, laws and regulations, conflict management, and specific issues in special education. Through stimulating classes and close interaction with faculty, students develop skills for effective communication, supervision, and management. Each student participates in a carefully designed, school-based, administrative practicum or internship that addresses her or his professional goals. Students also may pursue a non-licensure track.

The Cohort Model

This program offers students the opportunity to reflect on their classrooms and methodologies within a unique cohort structure. Each cohort includes between 15 and 18 students who work with Simmons faculty to build the kind of fair and effective classroom community at Simmons that they wish to create in their own schools. This model provides a safe environment to discuss challenges, get inspiration and support, and share best practice strategies. It allows students to benefit from the experience and support of a richly diverse community of colleagues. Students say the cohort is one of their most valuable resources — it becomes a strong, collegial network that continues to offer personal and professional support beyond graduation.

Degree Options

Students may pursue a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) or a Specialist in Education degree (Ed.S.), an advanced degree that provides students who currently hold a master’s degree with an area of educational specialization. Each program of study is individually designed in consultation with the program coordinator and can be completed on a full-time or a part-time basis. Courses are offered on weeknights, weekends, and occasionally as one-week sessions.