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Posted: 8/16/00

New Masters Degree Added to Inventory at A&M International

 

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A new Masters in Generic Special Education has been approved for addition to the growing degree inventory at Texas A&M International University by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).

Dr. Rosa Maria Vida, Dean of the College of Education, said the new degree supersedes the previous Masters in Educational Diagnostician offered at the University and provides additional preparation for special education professionals.

"This degree encompasses that area completely, but also adds relevant preparation in new areas that we feel greatly enhance the preparation of the special education teaching professional," Dr. Vida explained.

Vida noted that the Special Education field is an especially challenging area within education and changes are constant.

"We were fortunate to have two of our leading special education faculty, Dr. Terry Shepherd and Dr. Randel Brown, lead the development of this program. Both dedicated substantial time to assuring that the degree is consistent with field-based needs," Vida said.

Vida noted that Laredo's hometown University prepares the majority of Laredo and regional teachers through its baccalaureate, alternative certification, endorsement and masters programs.

"In this past year, 60% of United Independent School District new hires were graduates of the University's College of Education programs. At Laredo Independent School District, almost 80% of teachers hired were graduates of the University's program," she explained.

Earlier this month the THECB approved the University's addition of a new Bachelor's Degree in Urban Studies. In combination with the new M.Ed. in Generic Special Education, University students can now choose from 53 undergraduate or graduate degrees.

For additional information on the new M.Ed. in Generic Special Education, please contact the College of Education's Department of Special Populations at 956.326.2435 or visit offices located in Killam Library room 321.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu