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Master of Arts in Special Education

At a Glance

16-20 Months Program length
Online Program format

Program Focus

Special education licensure preparation

Schedule

Live online classes 1-2 evenings per week and 1 Saturday per month

Accreditation

AAQEP

Semester Credit Hours

40

Cost per Semester Credit Hour

$824

Tuition Cost for Entire Program

$32,960

* All stated financial information is subject to change. Financial aid available.

Cultivate Confidence. Break Barriers.

teacher with a student outside

Leverage your compassion for students with learning challenges and help them be the best versions of themselves. Grounded in an ethic of care, our Master of Arts in Special Education program will empower you as a source of hope for students and families and a go-to resource in your school and community.

Help Students Navigate a Path to Success

Develop creative strategies to meet unique student needs in a learning community that's committed to thinking critically, transforming practice and promoting justice.

Teacher talks with an older student

Accelerate Your Career in Special Education

Take the fast track to a master’s degree while preparing for licensure in special education. This program is ideal if you already have a special ed job or view special education as a lifelong calling. School administrators are eager to hire and retain licensed special ed teachers, and this is a faster pathway than getting a regular teaching license before or alongside a special education license.

Teacher with pupil in a classroom

Help Meet a Growing Need

Schools across Oregon and the nation are experiencing teacher shortages, particularly in the area of special education. In the 2022-23 school year, the state of Oregon issued teachers, many of whom have limited experience caring for the needs of students with disabilities. We designed this program to fill that gap, and the knowledge you gain will transform the way you approach special education.

Student teacher school visit

Activate Your Expertise

Deepen your understanding of exceptionalities like autism and dyslexia, explore the intersection of ethics and public policy, and become highly skilled at assessment. You’ll learn how to adjust curriculum, evaluate assistive supports and develop customized tools for students who are classified as mild to moderate, as well as moderate to severe. We’ll also encourage you to complete your practicum in your special ed classroom if you have an emergency license.

Related: What Is a Special Education Teacher, and What Do They Do?

ºìÐÓ¶ÌÊÓƵ Fox students laughing while enjoying each other's company

Find Inspiration in a Caring Community

Build enduring relationships with professors and peers who care about special education just as much as you do. You’ll go beyond the coursework to discuss emerging trends, share experiences that are unique to the field and push through challenges – together. The perspective you gain will inform your life’s work, and the professional connections you develop will be sources of strength throughout your life.

student and teacher have a conversation

Make an Impact for Life

This is more than a chance to transform the lives of students who need an extra measure of patience and understanding. As a special education instructor, you’ll bring hope to countless families by opening the door to critical resources. And as you grow into your role, you’ll realize just how much of an impact you can make in your school and community. Generate knowledge that improves teaching practice, galvanize support for exceptional learners, and be a voice of wisdom and understanding wherever your career path leads.

Questions?

Kipp Wilfong

Kipp Wilfong

Admissions Counselor, Graduate Education Programs