I found an online program I am really interested at the University of Missouri. The program is early childhood special ed, which is what I'm really, really interested in, BUT...they don't do inititial certification. I'd have to do the alternate route, which I really don't want to. OR Liberty University has a M.A.T. program with a specialization in Special Ed. and they do do initial certification. The first one looks much better, and Early CHildhood is def. my preference (I really want to teach preschool), but I would be nervous about doing the alternate route, so I'd rather not.
I did my undergrad with Liberty and I am doing my M.Ed through Liberty right now.Their programs are really well done. Several people in my classes are in the MAT programs since the programs have similar class requirements and they speak highly of the MAT program as well. Hope that helps!
First of all if you are going to do an on-line program outside of your state really make sure that whichever one you pick will meet your state requirements. I looked at the websites for the programs and in your situation I would probably pick the one that does initial certification, because then you would do student teaching and hopefully gain initial certification in your state, but check your area and see if people with alternative certification are getting teaching jobs in early childhood special education, if they are then getting alternative certification and a master's degree at the University of Missouri may not be a bad thing. Some areas are more receptive to alternative certification than others. Good luck!
I'd go the Liberty route. I replied to your NJ alt route question- alt route is not as 'marketable' as traditional route, plus with the Liberty you'd have sped certification- which is very marketable.
Liberty is accredited by NCATE and so they have reciprocity with pretty much any state. From what I have come across, many schools like to see diplomas from NCATE schools. Liberty also has a fast track for online students meaning you can do two mini-semesters in a term.
I've pretty much decided on Liberty EXCEPT that I really don't wanna do those 3 intensives! Yuck! If you did them, how were they?
I don't have to do intensives for my program, but a few classmates have done them and they are not too bad from what they have said.
Here are a couple to consider: http://www.uwa.edu/academics/onlineprograms/master.aspx http://www.wgu.edu/education/online_teaching_degree http://www.apu.apus.edu/Academics/Degree-Programs/program.htm?progid=4698&program_type=Masters
any updates on Libertys program? I am searching for an online program for special ed inititial certification.
