ABOUT ACCELERATED PROGRAMS
Current NSU Students can earn their undergraduate degree and master’s degree in 5 years. As an undergraduate student, students can enroll in 500 level courses instead of 400 level courses. These higher-level courses will count toward both their undergraduate and master’s degrees per approval by the graduate studies office. Then, during their fifth academic year, students will continue and complete their master’s degree program as normal.
Admission Requirements:
NSU students should submit their application in the term before they plan to begin the program
- Completed Graduate Studies Application
- $36.00 (non-refundable) application fee
- Minimum 2.75 GPA
- Complete at least 90 undergraduate credits (prior to enrollment term)
- Two letters of Recommendations (If GPA is 3.0 or above, letters of recommendations are not required)
Program Overview:
Northern State University’s M.S.Ed. in Special Education is designed for current K-12 teachers, both special educators seeking deeper expertise and general classroom teachers who want to transition into special education and diversify their skills. The program enhances preparation for supporting students with diverse learning abilities and behavioral needs through evidence-based instruction, curriculum development, legal and ethical practice, and inclusion strategies. Students can choose to specialize in visual impairments or pursue a broader focus in special education. For those specializing in visual impairments, Northern State collaborates closely with the South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, located in a brand-new facility adjacent to campus, to provide practicum experiences that ensure skills are applied in real classroom settings.