Master of Science in Education-Special Education (Grades 1-6) and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL)

This dual certification program will prepare students to meet the educational requirements for certification in both students with disabilities (Grades 1-6) and teaching English as a second language (all grades). The degree provides students with the opportunity to participate in classes that focus on the most current understandings of special education and TESOL pedagogical practices. A universal theme woven into the fabric of all programs in special education is an appreciation of diversity and the understanding that the goal of education is to teach every child so that all children can learn. Literacy education, multicultural education, meeting the needs of learners with exceptionalities and the use of technology are integrated throughout all aspects of the program. The program conforms with the National CEC Standards, the National TESOL Standards, and the requirements of the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. Graduates of this program will be recommended for the following teaching certificates: Classroom teachers with preparation in TESOL (all grades) and students with disabilities (Birth-Grade 2) or (Grades 1-6).

Initial or professional New York state teacher certification in early childhood, childhood, middle childhood, adolescent education, or literacy.
General Education core-Twelve (12) semester hours of second language study or demonstrated proficiency in a second language on a nationally normed standardized test
A completed application form to the master's program.
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant's potential to succeed in the teaching of students with disabilities.
A written personal statement of professional intent.
Interview with a faculty member in special education.
Coursework for the general education core in the liberal arts and sciences must have a GPA of 2.75 or above with no grades below a C.
For applicants using one of the Centralized Application Systems (CASPA, CSDCAS, HAMPCAS, NursingCAS, OTCAS, SOPHAS, or SOPHASExpress), official transcripts should be sent directly to the Centralized Application System's mailing address. This address can be found in the academic history section of the application under colleges attended, my attended colleges, Download Transcript request form.

For all other applicants, unofficial transcripts from each school you attended can be submitted electronically as part of the application process. Typically, the transcripts that are uploaded are scans of print transcripts or downloaded from a university website/portal. An unofficial transcript must have your full name and courses with grades listed in order to be reviewed with your application
You will input the name and contact information for each provider in order to submit your application. Once you have added this information, the system will contact your recommender via e-mail with instructions on how to complete a recommendation for Hofstra University.
TOEFL Exam, minimum 80
IELTS Exam, minimum 6.5
PTEA Exam, minimum 53
ITEP Exam, minimum 4
ELS 112 Certificate
In response to COVID-19, we are also accepting the following exams and proof of English proficiency for applicants who are unable to meet one of the above requirements-
TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition
IELTS Indicator
Duolingo score of 120 or higher
Comprehensive immigration support before and after arrival, including
F1 Visa interview tips
Aiding with applying for OPT and CPT
Maintaining lawful status
Advising about travel outside of the U.S.
Aiding with authorization paperwork for employment during their studies and post-graduation (EAD Card, Social Security Card, Driver's License)
Transition programs and services
International Student Orientation
Campus programming and advisement designed to foster academic and personal success at Hofstra University