Program Structure
While our master’s degree programs incorporate various specializations, we also offer non-degree specialization and certification-preparation programs that are designed to satisfy the State Board for 
Educator Certification’s requirements in specific educational areas. The additional specialization training prepares teachers for the respective certification exams; all SBEC certifications require that a candidate pass a state test. These advanced credentials are attached to the standard teaching certificate, so as a prerequisite to earning a graduate certification, a candidate must already hold a bachelor's degree and the initial teaching certificate. This degree program is designed for completion within two years. All program requirements for the graduate degree must be completed within six years.
Urban Education
The Urban Education program is designed for teachers of diverse student populations who wish to cultivate more culturally responsive classrooms. Educators explore the historical context of urban education and learn how culturally responsive curricula increase student outcomes, reduce student behavioral infractions, and enhance teacher-student relationships. The 4-course sequence can be taken as standalone professional development. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
The ESL specialization is for practicing educators interested in working with ESL populations. Graduates are prepared to take the TExES (Texas Examination for Educator Standards) English as a Second Language (ESL) supplemental certification exam, a passing score on which qualifies them to work with ESL students populations. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
Bilingual Education
The Bilingual specialization is designed for teachers who work with students who do not speak English as their native language. Students who succeed in this four-course sequence are qualified to take the TExES (Texas Examination for Educator Standards) supplemental certification exam in bilingual education, a passing score on which qualifies them to work with students who do not speak English as their native language. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
Special Education
The Special Education specialization is for practicing educators interested in working with students with special needs. Content mastery equips graduates to work with special-needs students; they are able to employ evidence-based practices, monitor response to intervention, individualize intervention based on assessed needs, understand special education law and policy, deliver positive-behavior support, and collaborate with the colleagues and families of special-needs individuals. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
Mathematics
The Mathematics specialization is for practicing educators who wish to advance their content knowledge or pedagogical skills for the purpose of teaching mathematics. Those who successfully complete the 4-course sequence will have to the skills and knowledge to model effective mathematics instruction, translate evidence-based research into classroom teaching, differentiate with diverse learners, and instill creative problem solving. The program’s coursework can be applied to SMU’s M.Ed. degree.
Early Literacy Scholarship
The Early Literacy Scholarship is designed for K-5 classroom teachers in high-need public schools (including charters). Those who successfully complete the 18-credit hours are equipped to provide comprehensive, coherent, and complete early-literacy programs in regular classrooms. The coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
Literacy Studies
The Literacy Studies specialization is ideal for teachers who desire to advance their knowledge of literacy instruction and assessment specifically for early literacy and late literacy and for those who desire to pursue Reading Specialist certification. Those who successfully complete the program will be more effective teachers, improving student outcomes in literacy. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
The STEM specialization is designed for practicing educators who wish to advance their content knowledge or pedagogical skills for the purpose of teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics content. Those who successfully complete the program are equipped to be more effective STEM educators. The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.
Educational Diagnostician
The Educational Diagnostician specialization is designed for practicing educators who who desire to possess the critical knowledge and skills to identify and make a positive impact on the individual learning needs of students. Those who successfully complete the program will be able to apply their advanced knowledge of assessment and instruction to improve the outcomes of students with special learning needs. After successful completion of the program as part of an M.Ed. degree, candidates will be eligible for the Texas Educational Diagnostician Certificate.
Learning Therapy
The Learning Therapy specialization is ideal for individuals interested in working with children or adults who have dyslexia or related language learning disorders. Those who successfully complete the specialization are qualified to take the Alliance National Registration Exam for Multisensory Structured Language Education at the therapy level, a passing score on which qualifies the individual for membership in ALTA as a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT). The program's coursework can be applied toward SMU's M.Ed. degree.