Learn a multilingual ASL/English approach with this Deaf Education degree (EdM). This flexible Boston University Deaf Education program offers three concentrations (with the option to create your own), up to five field experiences in diverse Deaf schools, and the option to study on-campus or online. Whichever specialization you choose, you’ll develop a strong foundation to support the learning and growth of Deaf students.
Program Pathways and Field Experiences
Choose from three concentrations and earn your Deaf Education degree fully in person or in a hybrid format with synchronous courses. Note that the licensure tracks include required in-person components. You can enroll full time or part time.
Deaf Education (Licensure)
Earn an initial Massachusetts teaching license in Deaf Education (PreK–12). This concentration typically takes two years and one summer to complete.
Dual Licensure with Early Childhood Education or Special Education
Earn a dual license in Deaf Education with either Early Childhood Education (PreK–12) or Teaching Students with Severe Disabilities (ages 3–23). This concentration typically takes two years and one summer to complete.
Research, Leadership, and Advocacy (Non-Licensure)
Focus on research, advocacy, or leadership roles within Deaf Studies and Deaf Education. This option does not lead to teaching licensure but allows you to earn your Deaf Education degree online in one academic year.
Note: Students applying for Fall 2026 entry who are interested in the EdM in Deaf Education with a specialization in Research, Leadership & Advocacy should apply for the Language & Literacy Education EdM with a concentration in ASL & Deaf Studies.
Field-Based Experiences
Immerse yourself in a classroom at a different school for the Deaf each semester to expand your skills, network, and impact. You can complete up to five unique field experiences.
“I knew that pursuing my graduate degree here would not just prepare me professionally, but also empower me personally to become the kind of teacher who makes a lasting difference. I will always be grateful to BU Wheelock for providing the mentorship, training, and vision that helped me turn my passion into a clear, purposeful career.”
Career Outcomes in Deaf Education
Create educational systems where all Deaf students have access to language and the opportunity to thrive. Whether you complete your Deaf Education degree online or fully in person, you’ll be able to:
- Demonstrate strong knowledge in areas relevant to Deaf Education
- Assess student learning and progress, adapt instruction, and provide constructive feedback
- Communicate professionally and collaborate effectively with families, caregivers, and community organizations
- Reflect and improve on teaching, advocacy, and leadership
Join Alumni in a Rewarding Career in Deaf Studies or Deaf Education
Graduates of our Deaf Education degree use their knowledge and skills to enhance learning for deaf students through contributions to education, research, policy, or leadership. BU Wheelock alumni go on to roles such as:
- Teachers at bilingual schools for deaf children
- Principals and directors at schools for deaf students
- Visual storytellers
- Advocate
“The practicum-based experience and language study was an incredible experience. The theory and support, as well as relationships built with the cohort, will stick with me as I try to help my students learn in the most effective way.”
Featured Faculty
When considering deaf education master’s programs, it’s important to look at the interests and experience of the faculty. Half of the Deaf Education faculty at BU Wheelock are deaf, and all are fluent in ASL. They conduct cutting-edge research on sign language acquisition, have developed some of the best curricula in deaf education, and have created some of the most widely viewed ASL literary works in the world.
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Andrew R. Bottoms
Program Director, Deaf Studies
Senior Lecturer -
Naomi Caselli
Director, BU AI & Education Initiative
Director, BU Deaf Center
Associate Professor -
Todd Czubek
Senior Lecturer
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Emily Glenn-Smith
Lecturer
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Franklin Jones, Jr.
Lecturer
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Amy M. Lieberman
Director, Doctoral Studies
Associate Professor -
Anna Lim
Lecturer
Deaf Education Courses
Core courses in the Deaf Education degree include introductions to Deaf Education and to research. In addition to those courses, you’ll take classes in your concentration of choice.
This concentration includes a blend of required courses, electives, and a practicum. Required courses cover topics such as instructional methods, ASL literature, and elementary math. In addition, you’ll choose from electives such as:
- Disability Studies and Deaf Education
- Sign Language Structure
- Teaching English Language Learners
- Language Acquisition in Deaf Children
This specialization includes all requirements for Deaf Education (Licensure) and either early childhood education or special education licensure. You’ll also choose additional courses based on which dual licensure you are pursuing.
- Topics in Child Development and Education
- Language Acquisition in Deaf Children
- Severe Disabilities: Assessment and Instruction
- Disability Studies and Deaf Education
This non-licensure concentration includes a variety of elective courses, such as:
- Social Psychology and the Deaf World
- Sign Language Structure
- Teaching ASL as a First Language
Scholarships Available
Ready to begin your Boston University Deaf Education program? Don’t let questions of funding hold you back. Whether you earn your Deaf Education degree online through our hybrid format or fully in person, merit-based scholarships are available.
Admissions & Dates
Fall 2026 Start
Jul 1, 2026
Application Closes (International Applicants)
Fall 2026 Start
Aug 1, 2026
Application Closes
Fall 2027 Start
Aug 15, 2026
Application Opens
Spring 2027 Start
Dec 15, 2026
Application Closes
Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about our Deaf Education degree. Learn about application requirements and deadlines, sign up for an information session, or start your application today.
BU’s Deaf Education program emphasizes a bilingual ASL/English approach, combining research-based instruction with applied fieldwork. You’ll learn how to support language development, literacy, and access for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students while engaging with faculty and community partners shaping the field.
ASL is central to this Deaf Education degree, and you’ll build your skills throughout the program. Coursework is delivered in ASL, with English interpretation available as needed, helping you develop the language proficiency required to teach and communicate effectively.
Yes—this Boston University Deaf Education program offers a pathway to initial licensure as a Teacher of the Deaf. Licensure is issued in Massachusetts and may be transferable to other states, depending on local requirements.
This program offers flexible formats depending on your goals. The licensure tracks follow a hybrid model, combining online coursework with in-person field experiences. A fully online option is available for the non-licensure track, designed for students focused on research, advocacy, or related fields. All three pathways emphasize ASL and applied learning.