Texas Tech University

Special Education - Deaf & Hard of Hearing (M.Ed.)

Prepare for certification!

This program prepares certified teachers to take the Texas examination to become certified teachers of students who are deaf or hard of hearing. The program is guided by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Initial and Advanced Deaf and Hard of Hearing Knowledge and Skills and the Texas State Board for Educator Certification Standards for Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

College students in a classroom having a conversation in ASL.

Learning Model

Online

Credit Hours

36 credits (Master’s degree)

27 credits (Certification-only)

Maximum Transfer Hours

6 credit hours

For Master’s program, subject to approval.

Request InfoApply

Apply Today!

Rolling Admissions

Apply any time!

Apply Now

Tuition Estimates

Average In or Out of State

$415-500 per credit hour

Tuition rates are based on your residency determination of Texas Resident, Non-Resident, or Foreign. Please consult the Admissions site for more information.

Tuition Estimator


About This Program

Catalog and Course Details

This online program offers an M.Ed. in Special Education with a specialization in Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Deaf and Hard of Hearing certification preparation program, which prepares students for state exam to become a teacher of students who are deaf/hard of hearing.

After becoming certified to teach students who are deaf, graduates of this program may work in a public school setting as a teacher in a deaf education classroom, as an itinerant teacher of the deaf, or as a teacher at a residential school for students who have a hearing impairment.


Key Courses

EDSP 5350: Foundations of Psychosocial Aspects of Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Overview of historical and contemporary issues, individual assessment, academic placement, achievement, deaf culture, and educational controversies for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.

EDSP 5351: Emergent Language and Literacy for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Development of communication, language, and emergent literacy in students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Addresses all modes of communication, including speech, ASL, and MCE. 

EDSP 5354: Accessing the General Education Curriculum for Students

Focuses on the use of materials, technology, and visual strategies to help students who are deaf or hard of hearing succeed in general curriculum courses. 


Why Deaf and Hard of Hearing?

Students attend class via online meeting.

100% Online

Our fully online program is designed for working professionals nationwide, offering flexible coursework that fits your teaching schedule. You will receive rigorous preparation in deaf and hard of hearing education while maintaining your professional and personal commitments.

Texas Tech University graduate holds degree aloft at commencement ceremony.

Less than 2 Years

Complete your M.Ed. and Texas Deaf and Hard of Hearing teacher certification in under two years, allowing you to advance your career quickly. Our streamlined curriculum ensures efficient progress without compromising depth, quality, or real-world applicability.

Student at laptop giving the ASL sign for Yes.

Comprehensive

Gain holistic preparation grounded in contemporary deaf and hard of hearing education, evidence-based practices, auditory and visual communication approaches, and culturally responsive pedagogy. Our program equips graduates to serve diverse learners across communication modalities, educational settings, and disability profiles.

More info about this program

  • Texas Certification Pathway: Graduates are eligible to apply for Texas Teacher of Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing certification upon program completion and required state exams. 
  • Career Opportunities: Our alumni serve as DHH specialists, itinerant teachers, and program coordinators in schools, state agencies, and community-based organizations nationwide.
  • Student-Centered Support: Students receive individualized academic advising, mentoring from experienced faculty, and opportunities to collaborate on research, outreach, and advocacy projects.
  • National Accessibility: The program welcomes applicants from across the U.S. and internationally, emphasizing inclusive practices that address diverse communication needs and learning environments.

 


Ready to Take the Next Step?

Start your journey with Texas Tech today and unlock a flexible, career-focused education tailored to your needs. Have questions? We’re here to help!

Request InfoApply