Master of Education in Special Education - Pre-Kindergarten Special Needs

at Kent State University USA

The Master of Arts degree in Applied Mathematics is emphasizes areas relevant to mathematical applications in the sciences, including engineering, biological, financial and physical sciences. There is no thesis requirement or option. Students in the Ph.D. degree in Applied Mathematics can apply for this M.A. degree after completing the requisite number of credit hours.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Engage effectively in problem solving, including exploring examples, devising and testing conjectures and assessing the correctness of solutions.
• Reason in mathematical arguments at a level appropriate to the discipline, including posing problems precisely, articulating assumptions and reasoning logically to conclusions.
• Approach mathematical problems creatively, including trying multiple approaches and modifying problems when necessary to make them more tractable.
• Communicate mathematics clearly both orally and in writing.
• Teach university-level mathematics effectively.
• Obtain depth in some subdiscipline of applied mathematics.

The Master of Arts degree in English offers students broad learning in English studies while providing concentrated study in one area. The English major comprises the following concentration:

The Literature and Writing concentration prepares students for further graduate study in English and related fields, for professional training in such fields as library and information science and for careers in teaching. The program achieves this goal with distribution requirements, electives and a required focus in either literary traditions, critical theory or rhetoric and composition.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate the ability to think critically about the literary texts they read and interpret.
• Demonstrate how to write coherently and clearly about research topics and other topics.
• Demonstrate an understanding on how disciplines are interconnected.
• Apply appropriate research methods to objects of study.
• Demonstrate effective teaching skills and knowledge of appropriate teaching theories, if on appointment.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Music gives music majors an opportunity to study music and liberal arts with an optional minor, available in most academic areas of the university, or as a dual degree program with a major in another field. Although not as music intensive as the Bachelor of Music degree, the B.A. degree includes study on a main instrument and ensemble participation throughout the program.

The Music major includes the following optional concentrations:

• The Contemporary Popular Music concentration provides students the opportunity to study contemporary instruments such as electric guitar, electric bass and voice, as well as participate in a variety of styles including rock, pop, Motown and other popular styles.
• The Jazz Studies concentration provides students the opportunity to study jazz improvisation, arranging and composing.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of music history and theory
• Demonstrate high-level skills in recitals, ensembles or music research

The B.S. degree in Sports Medicine will focus on the knowledge and skills that are required for sports medicine and athletic training professionals with specific coursework in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, chemistry, physics, basics of sports medicine, strength and conditioning, first aid, pathologies of injury and illness, pathologies of general medical conditions, pharmacology, therapeutic intervention in health care (including modality application and rehabilitation), healthcare organization and management, emergency medical skills, documentation and record keeping in health care and psychology.

Students completing this program will gain experience in direct patient care and patient care skills, preparing them for their specific career path. Direct patient care skills taught and evaluated include, but are not limited to, first aid and CPR, assessment of biomechanics, gait analysis, goniometry, manual muscle testing, postural assessment, palpation, auscultation, emergency management, and obtaining medical and family histories through patient encounters.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Develop foundational knowledge for admission to advanced studies in graduate athletic training programs or employment in associated sports medicine fields
• Demonstrate sound decision-making through analysis and application in the prevention, management, and resolution of health-related issues associated with sports medicine issues
• Engage in comprehensive sports medicine care while integrating disciplined-specific, synthesized, creative, respectful and ethical elements
• Develop confidence and competence to successfully transition into practice and/or higher education programs in sports medicine

The Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience offers a broad-based study of the mechanisms of brain function from the cell and molecular level through cognition and behavior. This major is for students interested in medicine, other health professions, research and graduate studies in biology, neuroscience and psychology. The major will also prepare students for careers in industries, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, research administration and policy, science communication, teaching and other science-related businesses.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental principles of neuroscience.
• Acquire fundamental skills necessary for laboratory investigations into central nervous system function.
• Demonstrate an understanding of proper experimental design, data analysis and communication of research results.
• Demonstrate a greater knowledge and appreciation of the role neuroscience plays in societal issues, such as those related to neurological disorders, mental health, medicine and human and animal behavior.

The Master of Business Administration degree for professionals (Executive M.B.A.) prepares students for leadership positions in regional, national and international organizations. Curricular and co-curricular emphases are on ethical leadership, teamwork, creative problem solving, global perspectives and skillful applications of information technology.

The Executive M.B.A. is a highly personalized and interactive educational experience. The program is structured such that students take all their classes together, study in teams and interact with senior business faculty. Professional development workshops and free career coaching are included in the program.

The program is offered in an accelerated delivery, with courses offered in seven-to-nine-week modules, and students being able to earn the degree in 19 months. Students enter the program in August, starting with a three-day overnight residency. After that, they meet once monthly on weekends for classes. A 10-day international business experience is included midway through the program, providing participants with an applied learning experience abroad.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates from the program will be able to:

• Identify the problem and select the appropriate tool(s) to resolve the problem.
• Analyze the problem in order to come to a decision or conclusion.
• Articulate their position and apply their ideas effectively in writing.
• Articulate their position and apply their ideas orally.
• Articulate their ideas collaboratively as part of a team and provide some meaningful contribution to the overall team effort.
• Identify stakeholders related to ethical dilemmas and understand the difference between the ethical and legal aspects of the dilemma.
• Identify alternatives and consequences regarding an ethical dilemma and support a course of action.
• Identify global factors involved in making business decisions.
• Prioritize and analyze alternatives and consequences related to global factors and support a strategic decision in a global business context.

The Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences–Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics is an individualized program of study and research that prepares students for career opportunities in teaching and research in academic, governmental and industrial settings. A core series of courses sets a rigorous foundation in theory, experimental design and technical knowledge of contemporary investigations at the cellular level of organization. Areas of research include developmental biology, cellular and developmental neuroscience, immunology, reproductive biology, cellular endocrinology and molecular genetics.

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Understand advanced biological concepts beyond the scope of the typical undergraduate degree and increase the depth of their knowledge through coursework and hands-on experiences.
• Apply scientific principles and appreciate work outside of their particular field.
• Effectively communicate about science with colleagues as well as those outside of the student's area of expertise.
• Develop the necessary laboratory skills that will allow testing of hypotheses.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in a technological, multicultural and global environment. Our mission is to teach students to think analytically, reason critically, communicate effectively, and lead responsibly. We strive to develop communicators who are adaptive and ethical citizens who will thrive in the workplace, in the community, and in careers in government, business, non-profit, and education. We strive to understand how communication affects identities, communities, and cultures. We offer hands-on skill development opportunities to prepare students for meaningful and fulfilling careers.

The Communication Studies major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Applied Communication concentration offers an interdisciplinary program of study in which students gain expertise in organizational communication, advanced presentational speaking, professional writing and visual design. Students are trained to integrate theoretical knowledge and technical skills in order to perform professional tasks such as conducting training sessions and seminars, creating web content, designing promotional materials, managing communication campaigns and writing press releases.   
• The Communication Studies–General concentration features flexibility and choice. Students create a personalized plan of study tailored to their specific academic interests and career goals. This concentration is appropriate for those who have diverse academic interests.

Programs in the College of Communication and Information are, by nature, innovative, interdisciplinary and collaborative, which is critical to both professional and scholarly disciplines. Students are educated to work at the intersections of communication, information and technology. Through a core of diverse theory- and practice-based courses, students learn basic concepts that apply across the range of college programs and develop a sense of professional expectations and build toward interdisciplinary thinking and application.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Display competence in verbal, nonverbal, and written communication.
• Advocate courses of action to stimulate improved decision-making.
• Influence others through demonstrated presentational speaking skills.
• Communicate ethically.
• Foster inclusive dialogues and tailor messages that respect diversity, empower others, and bring about social change.
• Articulate creative, effective, and evidenced-based solutions to communication problems.
• Coordinate action, solve problems, foster well-being, engage in critical thinking, and participate in civic life.
• Communicate effectively in a technological, multicultural, and global society to bring about meaningful social change.  
• Apply information and media literacy in an effective and ethical manner.

The program learning outcomes reflect the University's commitment to excellence in teaching, research, creativity, and community outreach and engagement.

The Master of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences–Cellular and Molecular Biology prepares creative research scientists for careers in teaching, research and biotechnology. Graduates possess an in-depth comprehension of experimental design at the cellular and molecular levels of biological organization, as well as competency in current techniques in the discipline. Major research emphases include signal transduction, biochemistry and pathobiology, gene regulation, cell systems biology, cell and tissue ultrastructure, membrane structure and function, molecular aspects of neurobiology and endocrinology, genetics and metabolism of microorganisms, virology and immunology and enzymology with an emphasis on protein dynamics and folding, as well as cytochrome P-450s.

Program faculty are drawn from several departments at Kent State University, University of Akron, Cleveland Clinic Foundation and Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED). Additional participant faculty are located at area clinical facilities and hospitals. This multi-departmental and inter-institutional structure gives master's student access to the talents of a broadly diverse research faculty, as well as significant research facilities and resources.

The Master of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences–Cellular and Molecular Biology is offered in consortium with Cleveland Clinic, Northeast Ohio Medical University and the University of Akron

The Biomedical Sciences–Cellular and Molecular Biology major comprises the following concentrations:

• Cellular Biology and Structure
• Molecular Biology and Genetics

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Publish their research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrate the ability to teach undergraduate students.
• Seek employment after graduation in fields that reflect their area of training.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in History provides a well-rounded educational experience in which students have the independence and flexibility to explore and develop their individual interests while getting a solid grounding in different approaches to historical research, writing and analysis. The study of history offers insight into the complexity of the human experience by exploring the political, cultural, social, economic and environmental factors that have shaped the past and the present. The study of  history also offers training in a range of skills including how to find, evaluate, manage and synthesize multiple sources of information; how to think critically and analyze complex evidence; how to undertake independent research and manage time effectively; how to develop and present reasoned arguments supported by evidence; how to present information and arguments effectively in writing; and how to develop and deliver effective oral presentations. The skills and experiences gained through the study of history provide preparation for a variety of career tracks.

The History major is comprised of several elements. Lower-Division History Electives provide history majors with an overview of the major themes and developments in World history from human origins to the present and in the history of the United States from pre-colonization to the present. The required Historical Research Methods course introduces students to the main tools and techniques of doing history while providing them with the opportunity to develop and refine the skills of historical research, writing, and analysis to do well in their upper-division coursework. The History major also includes distribution requirements in two categories of upper-division courses. Area Studies Electives are a group of upper­ division history courses in which the history of a place (state, nation, or region) is the primary focus of the courses. Thematic Studies Electives are a group of upper-division history courses in which a specific topic or theme is the primary focus of the courses while the place and time period are secondary. The required Senior Seminar in History course is a capstone experience in which students develop, design, and execute their own original historical research project that utilizes primary sources and engages with current historical scholarship. Majors are also encouraged to do an internship in history for course credit to gain job experience and further strengthen their profile for their career after graduation.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Understand and apply a variety of basic historical methods.
• Find, use, and analyze historical evidence and communicate their findings in an effective manner.
• Obtain historical content knowledge and understand the connectedness of historical events and the wide varieties of human experiences.
• Understand history as a discipline based on interpretation with historical questions constantly being reframed and investigated.