This 48-credit Master of Science program prepares you for New York state certification in both Childhood Education and Special Education. You will learn to develop and teach innovative curricula for children in Grades 1 to 6, and to teach elementary school children with special needs, including mental handicaps, learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, developmental disorders and physical disabilities. In addition, you will explore the historical, social and legal foundations of special education and receive extensive clinical experience by working with children with special needs. You will learn to identify the characteristics of youngsters with varying levels of learning difficulties and adapt instructional strategies and materials to fit their needs. The program is accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council, signifying it meets the highest standards of quality in preparing competent, caring and qualified professional educators who will teach and lead in pre-K through grade 12 schools. (48-51 Credits).