Master of Science in Deaf Education

The Master of Science in Deaf Education (MSDE) program prepares students as teachers of children who are deaf or hard of hearing (birth to grade 12). The early identification of hearing loss and advanced hearing technologies have increased the national need for teachers with experience in listening and spoken language, creating opportunities for graduates across the country. With origins dating back to 1914, our MSDE program is recognized internationally as one of the most prestigious of its kind.  The program’s intensive curriculum, emphasis on immersion in practice teaching, and experienced faculty attract students from a wide variety of backgrounds.

Curriculum

The two-year curriculum is rooted in the development of speech, language, reading, and academic skills. With that foundation in mind, students go on to study the factors necessary for the high-quality education of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.   

Students learn about and participate in the teaching process, from the first diagnosis and early intervention through family-centered counseling and educational options for the child. Students also learn about assistive listening devices, including digital hearing aids, cochlear implants, frequency modulation systems, and sound field systems.

The integration of research into the curriculum is a unique feature of this program. Through course work in the fields of speech and hearing, education, psychology, and deafness, students learn how to be consumers of research and to apply the knowledge gained to their own teaching.

Student Teaching Experiences

Our students build their knowledge and skills through classroom instruction and immersive student teaching experiences. Teaching experiences are available at a number of local sites, including both public and private schools and the on-campus Central Institute for the Deaf, which collectively serve more than 700 children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Teaching experiences outside of the St. Louis area are also available.

In addition, our nationally recognized medical school and hospitals provide unique opportunities, such as observing cochlear implant surgery seminars and touring a hospital neonatal intensive care unit.

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