MA in Special Education Degrees

Overview

Obtaining a Master of Arts in Special Education (MA) prepares students to effectively respond to their current or prospective students’ diverse abilities and styles as they provide equitable learning. Most MA in Special Education programs provide practicing educators, related professionals and other qualified individuals opportunities to study and research special education practices and services specific to diverse individuals and various classroom settings.

Degree Description

The MA in Special Education recognizes that the dimensions of special education are changing rather quickly, and the need to promote the idea of integrated and comprehensive learning experiences for all students is becoming more prevalent. The curriculum teaches students classroom management, as well as how to identify disabilities and special abilities. Courses explore current issues and emerging trends within special education. The program covers theory and research in the areas of cognitive and the social development within children/youth, and students are expected to use this knowledge to plan and promote evidence-based interventions and instructional practices to enhance learning. Students explore opportunities for collaboration and advocacy within their educational settings that are designed to improve the classroom environment for students with disabilities.

General Requirements

There are multiple requirements for current and prospective special education teachers. These requirements vary from state to state. Most individuals who become special education teachers earn an undergraduate degree, complete an approved training program in special education, and then become certified. All teachers, whether leading a special education classroom or a general education classroom, must be certified in every state in the United States.

Online MA in Special Education Programs

  • Ashford University: MA in Education – Special Education (non-licensure)
  • Liberty University: MA in Teaching – Special Education
  • Saint Joseph’s University: MA in Special Education (Cert)
  • University of Massachusetts: MA in Curriculum & Instruction – Autism Studies
  • University of Phoenix: MA in Education – Special Education

Top Online Masters in Special Education Degrees

Teaching students with special needs requires a master's degree in special education. Degree programs focusing on special ed. will equip teachers with the tools and knowledge necessary to take on the challenges of educating students with learning, emotional, behavioral, and/or physical disabilities. Below are the top online colleges that offer masters degrees in special education.

Liberty University
The MA in Teaching Special Education from Liberty University is a program designed for people with no prior teaching experience that are interested in teaching special education. An M.Ed. in Special Education is designed for students seeking to make a difference at Christian, public, and private schools. You will master the skills necessary to become an effective special education teacher helping ensure the future success of your students.
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University of Phoenix
An MA in Teaching - Special Education from the University of Phoenix teaches candidates the skills necessary to become an effective special education educator. This curriculum includes programs to help student become comfortable in dealing with special needs students and learn methodologies to deal with mild disabilities. You will also gain practical experience as a student teacher in special education classrooms.
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Capella University
An MS in teaching - Special Education from Capella University prepares students to assist children with learning disabilities achieve academic and lifelong success. As a student, you be able to effectively teach children that have a variety of needs. A PhD in Special Education Leadership will increase your ability to oversee and act as an advocate for the growing number of students that need special education services.
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Western Governors University
The MS in Special Education online degree program from Western Governors University teaches students how to effectively educate individuals with moderate learning, physical, emotional, or behavioral disabilities. Upon graduation from this program, students will be prepared for certification as special education teachers.
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Grand Canyon University
The M.Ed. in Special Education with Certification from Grand Canyon University is designed for people interested in becoming certified in special education. Through this program you will learn how to use behavioral techniques to ensure a strong education of children with special needs. The M.Ed. in Special Education will give you an in-depth education on the various topics affecting special education students including the laws that govern the students and their families. Separate programs are available for individuals with or without teaching certification.
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Walden University
An MS in Special Education (K-12) from Walden University will prepare you to increase the success rate of student in primary education. An MS in Special Education for Behavioral Disorders teaches candidates how to create prescribed individual behavioral and instructional plans based on the learning strengths of a child. An MA in Special Education for Learning Disabilities builds teaching skills required to make a significant impact on children with learning disabilities. The PhD in Special Education programs provides graduates with a thorough examination of the theories and principles behind human learning.
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