Master of Arts in Special Education
September 26, 2026 2026-09-26 9:03Master of Arts in Special Education
A specialized graduate program designed to prepare educators and professionals to support individuals with diverse learning needs, disabilities, and exceptionalities across educational settings. The program integrates advanced educational theory with special education practices, inclusive instruction, assessment, intervention strategies, assistive technology, behavioral support, and educational leadership.
Master of Arts in Special Education
US$ 5,940
36 Credit Hours
18 Months
9–12 Months
3 Credit Hours
US$ 5,940
Support Learners with Diverse Needs
Integrate advanced educational theory with special education practices, inclusive instruction, assessment, intervention strategies, assistive technology, behavioral support, and educational leadership.
The Master of Arts in Special Education is a specialized graduate program designed to prepare educators and professionals to support individuals with diverse learning needs, disabilities, and exceptionalities across educational settings. The program integrates advanced educational theory with special education practices, inclusive instruction, assessment, intervention strategies, assistive technology, behavioral support, and educational leadership.
Students examine disability studies, special education law and policy, individualized education planning, instructional adaptations, differentiated teaching strategies, behavior management, collaboration with families, and evidence-based interventions. The curriculum emphasizes inclusive education, accessibility, equity, student advocacy, research-based practices, and the development of effective educational environments that promote academic and social success for all learners.
Graduates develop advanced competencies in special education instruction, educational assessment, intervention planning, inclusive practices, advocacy, and program leadership, preparing them for careers in schools, educational agencies, disability support organizations, nonprofit organizations, educational consulting firms, and community service programs.
Master of Arts in Special Education
18 Months — Traditional Learning Track
9–12 Months — Fast-Track Learning Program
3 Credit Hours per Course
US$ 5,940
Exclusive of applicable University administrative fees
Required Courses
The Master of Arts in Special Education requires 36 total credits.
| Course No. | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SPE 6000 | Foundations of Special Education and Disability Studies | 3 |
| SPE 6010 | Inclusive Education and Educational Equity | 3 |
| SPE 6020 | Assessment and Evaluation of Exceptional Learners | 3 |
| SPE 6030 | Instructional Strategies for Students with Disabilities | 3 |
| SPE 6040 | Individualized Education Programs and Intervention Planning | 3 |
| SPE 6050 | Behavior Management and Positive Support Strategies | 3 |
| SPE 6060 | Assistive Technology and Accessible Learning Environments | 3 |
| SPE 6070 | Special Education Law, Policy, and Advocacy | 3 |
| SPE 6080 | Collaboration, Family Engagement, and Professional Practice | 3 |
| SPE 6090 | Research Methods and Leadership in Special Education | 3 |
| SPE 6100 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Course Descriptions
Select a course to view its description.
SPE 6000 – Foundations of Special Education and Disability Studies
Introduces the historical, philosophical, and theoretical foundations of special education. Students examine disability perspectives, educational rights, inclusive practices, and the role of special educators in supporting diverse learners.
SPE 6010 – Inclusive Education and Educational Equity
Explores principles of inclusive education, accessibility, equity, diversity, and strategies for creating supportive learning environments that meet the needs of students with disabilities.
SPE 6020 – Assessment and Evaluation of Exceptional Learners
Examines assessment methods, educational evaluations, data interpretation, progress monitoring, and the use of assessment information to develop effective instructional and intervention strategies.
SPE 6030 – Instructional Strategies for Students with Disabilities
Focuses on evidence-based instructional approaches, differentiated instruction, individualized teaching methods, and strategies for improving academic outcomes for students with diverse learning needs.
SPE 6040 – Individualized Education Programs and Intervention Planning
Examines the development and implementation of individualized education programs, intervention planning, goal setting, progress evaluation, and collaborative approaches to supporting student success.
SPE 6050 – Behavior Management and Positive Support Strategies
Explores behavioral theories, positive behavior support, classroom management, behavioral assessment, and strategies for promoting positive learning environments.
SPE 6060 – Assistive Technology and Accessible Learning Environments
Analyzes assistive technologies, accessibility tools, universal design for learning, and innovative approaches for improving educational access and participation.
SPE 6070 – Special Education Law, Policy, and Advocacy
Examines legal frameworks, educational policies, disability rights, advocacy practices, and ethical responsibilities related to special education services.
SPE 6080 – Collaboration, Family Engagement, and Professional Practice
Focuses on collaboration among educators, families, communities, and professionals. Students examine communication strategies, family partnerships, and multidisciplinary approaches to supporting learners.
SPE 6090 – Research Methods and Leadership in Special Education
Develops research skills, program evaluation methods, leadership practices, and evidence-based approaches for improving special education services and educational outcomes.
SPE 6100 – Master's Thesis
Students complete an original research thesis addressing a significant issue in special education, inclusive education, intervention practices, disability support, or educational improvement. Under faculty supervision, students conduct research, analyze challenges, and develop evidence-based recommendations for enhancing educational opportunities for learners with disabilities.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for instructional, leadership, advocacy, research, and consulting roles supporting individuals with disabilities and exceptional learning needs.
Employment Sectors
Graduates may pursue employment in public and private schools, special education centers, school districts, government education agencies, disability support organizations, nonprofit organizations, educational consulting firms, child development programs, community service organizations, higher education institutions, teacher preparation programs, educational research centers, healthcare and rehabilitation organizations, advocacy organizations, educational technology companies, international education organizations, social service agencies, and inclusive education programs.
Ready to Support Learners with Diverse Needs?
Explore the Master of Arts in Special Education and take the next step toward inclusive teaching practice, intervention leadership, and advocacy for learners with disabilities.
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