Simmons University's Special Education (4+1) program is a five-year accelerated program that leads to a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree and initial teaching licensure in Massachusetts for Severe Disabilities. The program combines undergraduate and graduate coursework, emphasizing evidence-based best practices in special education and providing practical experience through fieldwork and practicum. Graduates are prepared to teach students with severe disabilities in various settings and advocate for their needs.

Degree Overview:

The Special Education (4+1) program at Simmons University is a five-year accelerated program that leads to a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree and initial teaching licensure in Massachusetts for Severe Disabilities (all grades). The program is designed for students who are passionate about advocating for and supporting students with special needs.

Objectives:

• To provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective special education teachers.
• To prepare students to meet the needs of all students in their classrooms.
• To equip students with evidence-based best practices in special education.
• To ensure graduates are ready to make a lasting impact in the field of special education.

Program Description:

The program combines undergraduate and graduate coursework, allowing students to begin taking graduate courses during their undergraduate years. The fifth year of the program includes a full-year student teaching internship and additional graduate courses leading to the MSEd degree and teaching licensure.

Teaching:

• The program emphasizes evidence-based best practices in special education.
• Students engage in fieldwork and practicum experiences to gain practical experience.
• The program is taught by experienced faculty members, many of whom are Simmons alumni.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared to teach students with severe disabilities in a variety of settings, including public schools, charter schools, private institutions, and educational collaboratives.
• The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a variety of special education roles, such as teacher, special education coordinator, or advocate.

Other:

• The program is designed to meet the requirements for initial teaching licensure in Massachusetts.
• Students must pass all applicable sections of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) to be eligible for licensure.
• Students can choose to pursue any undergraduate major, but should seek advising to ensure their chosen major prepares them for the curriculum they will teach and the MTELs.
• The program offers a Special Education undergraduate minor for students who wish to gain a foundation in special education before pursuing the 4+1 program.
• The program includes a practicum experience that provides students with an in-depth learning experience under the guidance of skilled cooperating practitioners and University supervisors.
• The program places students in a wide variety of schools and communities, including public school districts, charter schools, private institutions, and educational collaboratives.
• The program provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with special education and general education instructors.
• The program offers mentorship and supervision from experienced practitioners and field supervisors.
• The program has a strong focus on social justice and promoting equity in education.
• The program is designed to prepare students to be advocates for students with special needs.
• The program is constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the field of special education.

Simmons University

Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.