Master's Degree FAQ


*What are the requirements for admission to the Special Education LBS I Master Degree Program?*

	•	Bachelor's Degree
	•	Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
	•	Passing score on the Illinois Test of Basic Skills
	•	Two letters of recommendation

*Where do I get an application?*

	You may download an Application form, Statement of Goals/Objectives form, and Letter of Recommendation form from this website: www.neiu.edu/~gradcoll/forms/index.html

	•	You may call the Graduate College at 773-442-6005 to request an application packet
	•	You may visit the Graduate College in Building B, Room 159 and pick up a packet

*When are applications due?*

	The Special Education Department accepts students only once a year in the Fall. Applications are due in the Graduate College Office the third week in February for the following Fall semester and the third week in August for Spring semester.

*How many applicants are accepted each year?*

	There is no set number of applicants accepted each year. The Department Chair and Faculty make this decision based on number of students already in the program as well as number of qualified applicants we can accommodate in Fall classes.

*Do I need to take the GRE Exam?*

	No. The Special Education Department does not require the GRE exam. However, we do require a passing score on the Illinois Test of Basic Skills. This is a requirement that is mandated by State Law. You may register for this exam on the following website: www.icts.nesinc.com

*How many classes (credit hours) are required?*

	The program is 45 credit hours. There are 16 classes including 3 internships.

*How long does the program take?*

	Most of our students finish the program in about 2 ½ to 3 years.

*What is the cost of a credit hour?*

	For the 2004-2005 academic year the cost of one credit hour is $175. So the cost of one 3 hour class would be $525.

*Are there any prerequisite classes for the program?*

	No. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any major is acceptable to start the program without taking additional classes.

*What time are classes offered and how often do they meet?*

	During the Fall and Spring semesters classes meet once a week staring either at 4:15 P.M. or 7:05 P.M. During the summer there is one 13 week summer session and two 6 ½ week summer sessions. Classes begin either at 4:00 P.M. or 6:00 P.M. and meet either once (13 week session) or twice (6 ½ week sessions) a week.

*When can I start taking classes?*

	Even though you cannot be formally accepted into the program until the Fall semester, you may take up to 9 hours beforehand as a Student at Large. You may contact the Admissions Office at 773-442-4000 to request an application as a Student at Large with Degree or you may apply on-line at www.neiu.edu

*When can I meet with an advisor?*

	You will be assigned an advisor after you are accepted into the program. There will be an Orientation meeting for new students in June at which time you will meet your advisor. You should schedule your first meeting with your advisor within the first two semesters of starting the program.

*Will I be able to transfer credits I’ve taken at another university?*

	When you’ve been assigned an advisor you may bring transcripts, course descriptions and/or syllabi from any classes you’ve taken that you would like to transfer. Your advisor will decide if the course can be substituted for one in our program.

*Can I obtain certification only without completing the Master’s degree?*

	We have an initial certification program in place at the graduate and undergraduate level. In January, 2009 we will begin the focus program which will provided certification for presently certified teachers.

*I already hold a teaching certificate. Will I need to do another student teaching?*

	No. Students who are already certified will do a practicum instead of student teaching. This practicum will be done in the Itkin Children's Center here on campus.

	•	Call the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) at 1-800-899-4722 and ask about any financial aid available for Special Education students.
	•	The Graduate College offers Merit Tuition Waivers for one class per semester. You must apply every semester for this waiver


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	NORTHEASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY

	Master Degree Frequently Asked Questions
	(LBS I GA10)