This master鈥檚 degree with an emphasis in learning disabilities may be earned in conjunction with certification to teach in the state of Missouri. Although the state no longer offers certification in the area of learning disabilities, certification in cross-categorical special education can be obtained, along with this master鈥檚 degree, through supplemental course work.
Course work and practical in this degree program focus on the preparation of high-quality teachers for students with a range of learning and behavioral needs. Graduates may work in a variety of service delivery settings, including general education classes as well as resource and self-contained classes from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Degree Requirements
A minimum of 30 semester credit hours must be completed in fulfillment of degree requirements. Upon acceptance to the program, students interested in certification should contact the certification office for a transcript evaluation to determine what additional course work is required by the state for certification in cross-categorical disabilities. Students are required to complete course work that addresses a broad range of content pertaining to special education in areas such as:
Language development;
Assessment;
Behavior management
Collaboration and consultation;
Literacy instruction;
Mathematics instruction;
Research
Students in the learning disabilities emphasis area who are not seeking certification will complete a four-credit-hour field-based practicum in learning disabilities working in conjunction with a faculty supervisor as well as a certified learning disabilities or cross-categorical teacher in the public schools.
September 2025
College of Education and Human Development
118 Hill Hall,
COLUMBIA,
Missouri,
65211, United States
A completed baccalaureate degree
At least a 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 hours of undergraduate course work
If English is not your native language, please submit a TOEFL score of at least 100 (internet-based test), an IELTS score of at least 7, a Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of at least 66 or a Cambridge C1 Advanced score of at least 190.
The exam should be taken six to nine months before to the term the student wishes to start their program.
International students who have completed one year of college-level full-time study in a country where English is the native language may waive requirement if they meet all the conditions set by the Graduate School.
Application Deadline: Fall: May 15; Spring: October 15; Summer: March 15
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.