Coursework

Coursework for the special education master’s program covers many topics, including pedagogy, instructional design, IEP development, and positive behavior support in special education.

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Comprehensive Curriculum

Azusa Pacific’s teacher preparation programs span the continuum of K–12 education, equipping candidates with a breadth of essential knowledge while uniquely preparing them for their specific credential area and focus. All theory and learning is immediately filtered through the practical lens of field experience and student teaching with K–12 students in California public school settings.

Foundation courses are core studies shared by all teacher education students, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and learning. These face-to-face classes draw upon elementary and secondary school experiences and enhance knowledge of both special and general education processes.

Specialization courses offer coursework tailored to candidates’ credential requirements. Integrated across each program, these classes are taught face-to-face or in synchronous online environments.

Emphases courses provide advanced learning and context for those earning a master’s degree around their chosen area of emphasis. These courses are taught online to accommodate candidates during their student teaching practicum.

Diverse Course Modalities

School of Education students encounter several different class formats during their programs. The following modalities enable you to experience traditional, collaborative, and digital teaching models firsthand. While modalities vary from course to course, you may experience:

In-Person Classes

These classes are held at an APU campus location and involve face-to-face instruction and direct engagement with professors and students in a classroom setting. You will attend these classes in-person.

Co-Taught Classes

In the Division of Teacher Education, face-to-face courses are co-taught by special and general education professors. The two professors collaboratively plan and assess all student work.

Blended Learning

Blended courses mix in-person instruction with online learning, and between 33 to 50 percent of the course is presented in an online format. You will attend a portion of these classes in-person and complete the remainder online.

Distance Learning

Distance courses enable the professor to provide in-person instruction at one campus location while utilizing video-conference technology to extend instruction to students at other locations. You will attend these classes at the APU campus for which you are registered, though your professor may lead class from a different campus location.

Online Learning

These classes are conducted entirely online, allowing you to complete your coursework from anywhere. Courses may have specific technology requirements, but no campus visits are required.