Frequently Asked Questions

What certification options are available upon completion of the M.S. in Deaf Education at McDaniel College?
When you successfully complete the M.S. degree, you will be qualified to work in deaf schools and mainstream programs at elementary or secondary levels:

• Maryland Elementary Deaf Education teaching certification (grades K–8)
• Maryland Secondary Deaf Education teaching certification (grades 6–12)

How and when do I register for classes?
After completing the application process, new students registering for Summer or Fall should register for the following CORE courses:

• DED:511 Foundations of Deaf Education
• DED:518 Assessment and Instruction
• DED:541 First and Second Language Development
• DED:517 Reading for Deaf Children

Because no CORE courses are offered in the Spring, students applying for Spring classes are encouraged to look at prerequisite classes or make an appointment with an advisor to determine what class schedule would best suit them. Deaf Education classes fill quickly so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Do you need to know Sign Language to participate in the program?
Yes. All classes are taught in ASL, and students must score at a certain level on the ASL Proficiency Interview before entering the McDaniel College graduate program.

What kind of support is offered for hearing and deaf individuals in the program?
Students are well supported through the American Sign Language Lab, the English Lab, and the Academic Skills Center, as well as through interpreting services.

I heard we had to pass a writing test. Is that true?
Yes, beginning in the fall of 2002, all entering students must demonstrate competency in written English by taking the English Proficiency Essay.

What is the Summers-only program of study?
A large number of students who work full-time during the year choose the Summers-only program of study. All courses in the Deaf Education program are offered in these sessions of 6–8 weeks, which run from late June to early August.