Educational Diagnostics , M.S.Ed.
CIP: 131001
The Master of Science in Education in Educational Diagnostics at Northwest Missouri State University is designed to train professional educators in the ethical use of formal and informal assessments within a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), including special education, for the purpose of improving the educational outcomes of PK-12 students who exhibit differing abilities. This program examines the role of educational diagnosticians from universal screening and pre-referral processes through special education eligibility determination and the provision of special education services. Within this program particular emphasis is placed on (1) the use of a problem-solving approach to assessment to formulate a multi-dimensional understanding of students' strengths and weaknesses; (2) the use of data derived through the assessment process, to identify the most appropriate and practical evidence-based interventions according to students’ learning profiles; and (3) the importance of educational diagnosticians in bridging the research-to-practice gap.
This program was developed in alignment with standards for educational diagnosticians, but completion of this program does not lead to certification as an educational diagnostician. Information pertaining to national certification as an educational diagnostician is available on the National Certification of Educational Diagnosticians website.
Course Requirements
Required Courses
| EDUC 61641 | Data Literacy and Assessment for Schools | 3 |
| EDUC 61642 | Multicultural Education for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | 3 |
| EDCI 62635 | Techniques for Conferencing and Collaboration | 3 |
| EDCI 62652 | Student Evaluation and Assessment | 3 |
| EDCI 62638 | Introduction to the Profession: Educational Diagnosticians | 3 |
| EDCI 62658 | Professional, Ethical, & Reflective Practices | 3 |
| EDCI 62685 | Considerations of Atypical Development | 3 |
| EDCI 62678 | Challenging Behaviors: Prevention, Assessment, & Intervention | 3 |
| EDCI 62668 | Academic Skills: Assessment for Intervention | 3 |
| EDCI 62697 | Capstone Project: Educational Diagnosticians | 3 |
Competency Assessment
To assess program effectiveness and meet the comprehensive assessment requirement, a Written Assessment of Competency Mastery is required of all students completing the M.S.Ed., Educational Diagnostics. The assessment will include the development of a professional portfolio which include reference to program artifacts, professional standards, and reflection on growth as a professional educator. The assessment will be completed during EDCI 62-697 Capstone Project: Educational Diagnostician.
Total Credit Hours: 30