Master of Education (M.Ed./C.A.E.S.) in Moderate Special Needs
This program prepares teachers to work with students with mild to moderate disabilities (also known as high incidence disabilities) such as: attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, specific learning disability, emotional and behavioral disorders, and mild developmental disabilities—including autism spectrum disorders. Based on the program option they select, students will learn about assessment and instructional practices at the elementary or secondary schooling levels, consistent with teacher licensure options in Massachusetts and many other states.
The goal of the program is to prepare teachers to work in a variety of roles including: lead teacher, special education teachers, and learning specialist, as well as to collaborate with general education regular teachers educators, other services providers and parents.
The program leads to initial licensure. Students who have not earned general education licensure will be required to take additional courses.
The program leads to eligibility for the Massachusetts teaching license in Mild/Moderate disabilities.
- How to develop learning goals and experiences responsive to the developmental and learning needs of students with special needs; including in ways that are responsive to language, cultural, and family backgrounds.
- How to work collaboratively with students and professional colleagues in a variety of instructional settings.
- How to plan individually-appropriate curriculum -through the IEP as well as in inclusive classroom settings.
- How to use formal and informal assessments to plan instruction for pupils in ways that reduce bias, and to monitor learning progress.
- How to use evidence-based practices to advance the learning of students with disabilities. Practices will include uses of technology and augmentative and alternative communication.
- How to plan for and work with students and colleagues for successful transition preparation.
- How to use ethical and professional practices that respond to language, cultural, and familial diversity.
The Lynch School has a long history of national accreditation, which includes NCATE (National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education), TEAC (Teacher Education Accreditation Council), and CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Most recently, the Lynch School was granted full and complete accreditation through CAEP, valid from Fall 2018 through Spring 2024. Boston College is currently the only CAEP accredited education preparation organization in Massachusetts.
At a Glance
How many courses?
For students already licensed, this program consists of 12 courses for a total of 34 credits.
For students who are not already licensed, this program consists of 19 courses for a total of 55 credits.
How long will it take?
Full time students who are already licensed will typically complete the program in 1.5-2 years.
When can I start?
Students can begin the program in the spring, summer, or fall semesters.
What will I study?
Curriculum
- Courses: 19 or 12
- Credits: 55 or 34
- Comprehensive Examination
Curriculum varies based on licensure status. See program of study for specific requirements
Where do our graduates work?
St. John's Preparatory School
Assistant Principal of Academics
Littleton Public Schools
Fourth Grade Teacher
Papillion La Vista School District
Sixth Grade Teacher
Museum of Science
Director of Exhibits
Goodwin Procter LLP
Court Procedures Attorney
Boston Public Schools
First Grade Teacher
Needham Public Schools
Special Education Teacher
Steppingstone Foundation
Mathematics Instructor
North Attleborough Public Schools
School Principal and ELL Coordinator
Placements self reported from recent TCS graduates.
Financial Assistance
Education should level the playing field – we feel the same way about financial aid.
The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $7.5 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable. Here’s why:
Deadlines
- Regular Decision
- 1/6/20
- Rolling Admission
- After 1/6/20
- Spring
Regular Decision - 11/1/19
Apply Now
A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required, however, this fee is waived for select applicants.
Resume
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.
Personal Statement
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation
Identification of recommenders/instructions to recommenders are outlined in the online Application Form.
Two letters of recommendation are required with at least one required from an academic source. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.
Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in lieu of official transcripts for the application review process. In the event that one is admitted into a program and enrolls, our office will need official transcripts prior to course registration. To expedite application processing times, our office encourages you to send unofficial transcripts electronically to our email address at GSOE@BC.EDU. Please note that unofficial transcripts must include all of the following items:
- Course titles and grades for each course
- Year and entry term for each of the courses listed
- Translated into English by certified translation agent (if not already in English)
- Original and translated transcripts must be provided
If you are able to secure official transcripts, please note the following:
- An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.
- Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.
- If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.
Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@bc.edu from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@bc.edu to ensure it is received by our office.
Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:
Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Standardized Tests
For all Boston College students and alumni
If you received any type of degree from Boston College, or if you are a current Boston College student, the GRE is not required.
For all other applicants
If you did not receive a degree from Boston College or if you are not a current Boston College student, the GRE is required.
The Lynch School GRE code is 3218.
Writing Sample
Not required.
International Students
International applicants are encouraged to apply to the Lynch School of Education and Human Development. Learn about requirements for international students.
Academic Tools
Contact Us
gsoe@bc.edu
617-552-4214