Master's Degree in Deaf Education: Program Overview

Learn about master's degrees in deaf education. Get information on course requirements, licensing and career prospects to make an informed decision about your education.

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Master's Degree in Deaf Education

Students acquire the skills to understand the effects of hearing loss on learning and to present educational materials to the hearing impaired and their families. They learn to teach the appropriate content to students with hearing loss in residential schools, resource rooms and public day schools. Students have the option of pursuing a teaching track, which prepares students for licensure, or an early intervention track, which provides the skills necessary to work with young children. Deaf education programs are available as a Master of Science, Master of Education and Master of Arts.

Education Prerequisites

Master's degree programs require that students possess a bachelor's degree and some may require undergraduate coursework in early childhood, special or secondary education. Additionally, applicants may be required to provide verification of their knowledge of American Sign Language or Cued Speech. Additionally, some programs require students to provide letters of recommendation.

Course Topics

Students of the deaf education program learn the skills required to communicate effectively with hearing impaired students, optimize a student's communication potential and learn successful methods of teaching students. Deaf education courses cover topics such as:

  • Speech and hearing science
  • Teaching literacy for the hearing impaired
  • Language theories
  • Sign communication
  • Early intervention
  • Audiology

Popular Career Options

Graduates can pursue career opportunities in a number of settings, including public and residential schools, state programs or private practices. Some popular career options include:

  • Early intervention specialist
  • Special education teacher
  • Speech-language pathologist

Continuing Education and Licensing Information

Students may wish to pursue a doctoral degree in deaf education to perform critical research or enter positions in leadership or administration. Doctoral programs prepare students to address complex issues in hearing impaired education through research and concentration in specific areas, such as policy, culture and politics.

Graduates seeking work as teachers in public school systems must complete their state's teacher certification or licensing requirements. The state may also require a special education certification, in addition to a general teaching credential. Speech-language pathologists are subject to different licensing requirements.

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