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Master of Education in Special Education

The Master of Education in Special Education focuses on the preparation of teachers to work with students with disabilities in PK-12 schools. Teachers may also be prepared to work in early childhood educational settings with infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. This degree does not require the completion of a thesis. See the MA in Special Education for the thesis option.

Emphasis areas include mild to moderate disabilities (K-12), moderate to profound intellectual disabilities (K-age 22), specific learning disabilities (K-12), autism (k-12)emotional/behavioral disorders (K-12), and early childhood special education (birth-age 8). Programs of study leading to initial licensure or advanced preparation are both available.

Applications are accepted year-round. We recommend application by April 15 for summer or fall semesters and by October 15 for spring semester.

Students will develop an in-depth understanding of special education policy and law, student characteristics, instructional methods, assessment, behavior management, and working collaboratively with families. They will be familiar with the professional literature related foundations and research in special education related to their area of emphasis. Teacher leadership is stressed with graduates able to interpret and evaluate research findings and apply them to special education and early intervention settings.

Related Special Education Degrees and Programs

• Master of Arts in Special Education