Teachers College

Special Education

The Special Education K-12 graduate program prepares teachers to earn licensure and become effective educators. The program teaches proven instructional strategies that help students with disabilities and other exceptional needs succeed in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Henderson State Graduate Studies offers:

  • Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Special Education
  • Licensure Only Track for Special Education
  • Special Education Resource Endorsement

The MSE in Special Education (30 credit hours) is designed for individuals seeking both a graduate degree and special education licensure. The program is ideal for:

  • Individuals seeking a master’s degree and special education licensure
  • Career changers entering the education field
  • Educators looking to expand career opportunities and earning potential

The licensure only track (18 credit hours) provides a streamlined pathway for individuals who want to earn special education licensure without completing a full master’s degree program. This option is idea for:

  • Licensed teachers adding special education certification
  • Individuals who already hold a graduate degree
  • Individuals seeking a shorter pathway to licensure in special education

The resource endorsement (12 credit hours) is designed for educators who want to expand their knowledge and credentials. The endorsement provides specialized training while allowing teachers to continue serving in their current roles. This option is ideal for:

  • Licensed teachers seeking additional credentials in special education
  • Educators who support students with diverse learning needs
  • Teachers wanting to strengthen skills in intervention and individualized instruction

Testing Requirements

MSE and Licensure

  • Fundamental Subjects
    • Candidates must hold a K-6 license and have completed either the 5000 or 5031 series Praxis test
  • Foundations of Reading
    • Candidates may be exempt from this requirement if they provide documentation of a Science of Reading Evaluation conducted by a certified SOR evaluator from their district
  • Praxis Special Education
    • This requirement may be waived for candidates who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Exit Presentation
    • Candidates must complete an exit presentation with the special education faculty

Resource Endorsement

  • Candidates must successfully pass Praxis Special Education

Please refer to the ETS Arkansas website for the most up-to-date Praxis test numbers. The Pearson website will provide information on the Arkansas Foundations of Reading Exam.

Contact

Dr. Charlotte White-Wright
1100 Henderson Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71999-0001
870-230-5160