The Master of Science in Deaf Education is a (32-41 credit) program designed to provide candidates with research based pedagogy and methodology to become change agents providing instruction to Deaf/hard of hearing students in diverse academic settings. This program is in alignment with Idaho State University’s vision to ignite a passion for knowledge and discovery to create a better future for our students and the world. Two degree tracks are available.
*All courses available online (blended synchronous and asynchronous formats)
Admissions Requirements
The student must apply to and meet all criteria for admission to the ISU Graduate School. In addition, applicants for the Master of Science in Deaf Education degree must meet all college requirements for admission and retention.
Admission requirements for individuals applying to the Master of Science in Deaf Education:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or its equivalent from a school in another country.
- Submit three letters of recommendation.
In that the mission of the Deaf Education program is to prepare individuals to become certified teachers of the Deaf, preference is given to individuals who have an undergraduate elementary, secondary, or special education major and who have American Sign Language skills. However, individuals without this background should consider applying after consulting their respective state department of education for details regarding teacher of the Deaf certification/licensure.
Degree Tracks
Track 1: Degree Seeking Only
This track provides in-depth courses specific to the area of concentration for professionals who already have teaching certification; seek to enhance their knowledge.
Track 2: Teacher Certification Preparation
This option provides courses to prepare the candidate to qualify for teacher certification in the state of Idaho. Includes a full-time 8-week student teaching placement.
Career Opportunities
Deaf and Blind School Deaf Educator
School Capacity Building
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Itinerant Teacher
Child Services Consultant
Mission
The Department of Teaching and Educational Studies seeks to graduate proficient and reflective educators who understand learners, content, and pedagogy.
Outcomes
- Candidate displays the dispositions of professional action and moral commitments that support Deaf/hard of hearing students’ social, emotional, language, and academic development.
- Candidate applies evidence-based professional and pedagogical knowledge that supports Deaf/hard of hearing students’ signed language development.
- Candidate applies evidence-based professional and pedagogical knowledge that supports Deaf/hard of hearing students’ literacy development.
- Candidate applies evidence-based professional and pedagogical knowledge that supports Deaf/hard of hearing students’ spoken language development (Deaf-centric approach).
Goals
Provide equitable employment opportunities for all candidates in the Masters of Deaf Education program by providing comprehensive research based training with emphasis on multilingual and bimodal teaching strategies.