This collaborative program enables you to learn essential teaching skills and theory through hands-on experience in a vibrant school setting as well as dedicated coursework provided by Fontbonne.

• This program is a unique model designed to prepare a new generation of professionals.
• Synchronous distance learning features video conferences, interactive webinars and broadcast lectures — all in real-time as they are delivered to local Fontbonne students.
• The program stresses an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating the principles of best practice from deaf education, early childhood education, speech-language pathology and special education.
• Classes are small and highly interactive.
• Faculty are nationally recognized, experienced and committed to each graduate student’s success. Many of our faculty continue to work with children and families, sharing their expertise through technological advancements, evidence-based practices and innovative techniques.

Deadline to apply to the program and grant funding is typically Feb. 1 of each year. 

• All coursework is presented by instructors through face-to-face instruction or via synchronous distance technology.
• The 43-credit-hour curriculum prepares graduate students with the content and experiences they need to:
  • provide educational services to students who are learning and using listening and spoken language;
  • collaborate with professionals in inclusive educational settings;
  • monitor and facilitate the use of hearing technology;
  • instruct learners with modifications and accommodations;
  • support learners’ self advocacy and social-emotional development.
• Students will complete more than 400 hours of field experience in or near the city in which they reside through the Clarke Schools or other Northeast programs, including the Capital Region Education Council’s Soundbridge Program in Connecticut and the Bergen County Hearing Impaired Program in New Jersey.

Student scholarships are available from Fontbonne University through two different Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services five-year $1.25 million grants. Please click here for more information. 

Other funding opportunities:

• Alumni Discount: If you are an alumna or alumnus of Fontbonne University, you may be eligible for a 15 percent discount on graduate tuition.
• Educator’s Discount: In appreciation of the services offered to our community by educators at all levels, Fontbonne University offers a 15 percent discount to qualified individuals enrolled in graduate coursework. Qualified educators include those who work at least half-time in a nursery school, a pre-K through 12 school system or post-secondary institution. A discount application form is available from the Fontbonne admission representative or program director with whom you are working. The form must be completed each semester or enrollment term to receive the discount.