About the Program
This program of study, administered by the University of New Hampshire, Department of Education, prepares early childhood special education teachers in evidence-based practices for early intervention, preschool, and primary settings. Scholars will gain knowledge, skills, and experiences implementing current evidence-based practices to meet the needs of young children and families through:
- Series of Evidence-Based Practice seminars
- Enhanced field experiences in Communities of Practice that engage in exemplary practices
- Mentoring Network that matches scholars with a community mentor, connecting them with providers in the early childhood field to ensure professional success
The program consists of a two year master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Needs Option, where courses are taught after 4 p.m., so enrollment is feasible for practicing professionals and full or part-time students. Graduates are eligible for New Hampshire teacher certification in early childhood special education (Birth - 8 years).
The program is grounded in a social-constructivist philosophy that embraces the diversity of human experience. It emphasizes the full participation of all young children through inclusion in natural environments with smooth transitions between Early Intervention, Preschool, and Kindergarten. Courses are co-taught by individuals with disabilities and/or family members, and University faculty in Education and other departments in collaboration with the Institute on Disability.
This program is supported in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, CFDA Number 84.325K
Who Should Apply
The program is designed for individuals who are at various stages of professional education, enrolled in the M.Ed. program in Early Childhood Special Needs Option at the University of New Hampshire, with high priority given to applicants from underrepresented groups, including:
- Students from cultural and racial minorities
- Self-advocates and parents of children with special needs
- Practicing professionals who are interested in learning more about supporting the educational needs of young children with special needs and their families
Financial Aid
Generous tuition stipends, funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, are available for a limited number of highly qualified individuals. These stipends cover the cost of at least 50% tuition per year (the equivalent of at least one year of full tuition).
Requirements
Scholars enroll in the two year master’s degree program full or part-time, including an internship experience. There is the possibility that one or more of the required courses may be waived if past coursework and/or experience documents participants’ competence. In all cases, each scholar’s program of study must be approved by the program faculty. A sample full-time schedule of course offerings is depicted below:
| Year | Fall | Spring | Summer |
| Year 1 | - Diversity and Child Development
- Introduction to Young Children with Special Needs
- Elective
| - Sociocultural Perspectives on Teaching and Learning
- Inclusive Curriculum for Young Children with Special Needs
- Curriculum for Young Children with Special Needs: Evaluation and Program Design
| - Optional summer term enrollment with some courses available
|
| Year 2 | - Supporting Families of Individuals with Exceptionalities
- Elective
- Internship and Seminar
| - Leadership and Advocacy for Early Childhood Education
- Internship and Seminar
| same as above |
Contact Information
Applications will be accepted anytime and admissions decisions made promptly. For more information about the program and the application process, contact:
Dr. Leslie J. Couse
Project Director
UNH Education Department
Morrill Hall
Durham, NH 03824
603.862.0638
leslie.couse@unh.edu
Sarah Henry
Project Coordinator
sarah.henry14@gmail.com