Mission
Special Education and Literacy Studies
College of Education and Human DevelopmentMission
The Department of Special Education and Literacy Studies offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on preparation of educational professionals with expertise in meeting the needs of K–12 students with diverse abilities. Special education faculty offer a number of program options at the undergraduate, master and doctoral levels with an emphasis on the application of research-generated practices to improve students’ educational and post-school outcomes. Literacy Studies offers a master’s program that leads to the Reading Specialist Endorsement K-12. The Literacy faculty provide undergraduate courses to all WMU elementary and secondary education majors. These courses integrate teaching reading and literacy development throughout the curriculum and across the educational continuum. Within each program area, faculty are engaged in research initiatives that enhance both student engagement and learning. Through the Dorothy J. McGinnis Reading Center and Clinic and the Career Connections Research Center, SPLS faculty provide opportunities for WMU students to participate in experiential learning.