Graduate Program
Boston University's program for the deaf is one of only two such programs
in the New England area and is unique in the prospective and scope of
its work. The program in unique in that it integrates Deaf and hearing
faculty members, the Deaf Community, Deaf schools and programs, and
Deaf and Hearing students. The focus of the program is on training teachers
to improve Deaf students communicative competence and to teach content
subjects. The Education of the Deaf program seeks to develop in graduate
students a positive functional approach to educating Deaf children.
To date, the program has been 100% successful in placing its graduates
in educational and other settings serving Deaf people. Furthermore,
many of the graduates have taken on leadership roles early in their
careers (e.g., principalships, directors of programs, curriculum coordinators,
etc.). Approximately 10 percent of our graduates pursue doctorates at
Boston University and other universities.
Professional training leading to a Master's Degree in Education and
State and National Certification in Education of the Deaf is offered
in the Department of Developmental Studies and Counseling. The resources
at Boston University provide for a high quality interdepartmental program.
The interdisciplinary approach to training leads to the necessary competencies
for teaching Deaf children in the areas of: American Sign Language,
the nature of language, linguistic inquiry, language acquisition and
the teaching of language (ASL and English). Instructional strategies
for teaching elementary school subjects such as reading, mathematics,
and science are required as part of the core program.
The Graduate Program in Education is divided into a core program and
a specialization area developed in concert with the interests of each
student and an advisor. In addition to the core requirements, students
will develop advanced knowledge of one of the following disciplines:
language, developmental psychology, curriculum and instruction (early
childhood and elementary), English as a Second Language, bilingual education
and multi-handicapped children.
Graduate School of Education Requirements
Applicants for the master's degree must hold a bachelor's degree or
its academic equivalent from an accredited institution. If accepted,
candidates must complete a minimum of eight semester courses of the
equivalent (32 credits), approved by the advisor. One 4-credit course
must be the required research course. Departments may require a number
of courses or a these beyond the minimum stated herein.
Education of the Deaf Requirements
Prerequisites: Coursework in American Sign Language, language
acquisition and general education is required prior to entering graduate
level courses. It is strongly recommended that you start the program
during the summer preceding the fall you enter in order to complete
prerequisite coursework.
Core Program: The particular course work needed and length
of actual program is dependent upon coursework complete when entering.
Research Course: The School of Education requirements state
that all graduate students are required to complete one four credit
course in research methods.
Practica: Students will participate in two practicum: one
half-time practicum for one semester and one full-time practicum for
one semester. The half-time practicum, Initial Strategies, will involved
implementing strategies for improving the communication skills of Deaf
children. The full-time Student Teaching practicum requires the student
to participate in the classroom in an instructional role. This 14 week
placement initially involves observation, leading to responsibility
for one subject, and the eventual responsibility for teaching all subjects.
Competency in American Sign Language: Coursework will be offered
which is intended to develop performance and competency in American
Sign Language. Competence in American Sign Language is required upon
completion of the program.
Major Paper: All graduate students will be required to produce
a major paper for graduation. The topic should be one of interest to
the student and approved by your advisor.
Application must be received by February 15 for September enrollment.
Any applications received after this date will be reviewed for acceptance
on a space-available basis. Boston University is an equal opportunity
institution.