Master’s (MEd) in Special Education Degree

Master of Education in Special Education (Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure)Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure

Offered By: College of Education

Enhance Your Teaching Career With a Special Education Master’s Program

The Master of Education in Special Education (NITL) program from Grand Canyon University’s is a non-licensure program that can prepare teacher candidates for a career in special education with a focus on K–12 students with mild to moderate disabilities. This MEd in Special Education non-licensure program aims to help graduate students master the knowledge and cultivate skills that can support the development of students with exceptionalities. 

Offered by the College of Education, its curriculum teaches how to adapt instructional strategies to meet each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), while building upon strengths that a teacher already possesses. This non-licensure initial special education MEd program can help teacher candidates increase their familiarity with mild to moderate disabilities, while advancing knowledge in assessment and transition planning. This initial special education, mild to moderate K-12 program, does not lead to teaching licensure. 

Benefits of Earning an MEd in Special Education From GCU 

Earning a degree from a special education master’s program from GCU can offer a range of benefits for aspiring educators, including:

  • A deep understanding of special education practices
  • An emphasis on evidence-based approaches, inclusive education and the application of research findings in K-12 classroom settings
  • A collaborative environment with knowledgeable faculty members
  • Application of critical thinking
  • The discovery of innovative techniques to engage students with diverse learning abilities in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
  • Ways to enhance academic experiences for students with exceptionalities
  • Field experience opportunities to apply theories, research, concepts and strategies studied throughout the program
  • Flexible online and in-person in the evening learning options
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Online may be the preferred modality for earning a master’s degree because of its convenience and flexibility. GCU’s master’s in special education online program is tailored to meet the needs of adult learners who may also be working professionals, so they can learn at the times and locations best for them. 

Candidates opting for the non-licensure route (NITL) in this program are not required to fulfill the 15-week student teaching component. This is a good option for those seeking to advance knowledge in the area but not seeking licensing certification. In addition, the program completion will be shorter, as this route has 36 total credits, as opposed to 44 credits with the licensure route. Please note that candidates who take this route cannot obtain an Institutional Recommendation (IR) from GCU. 

Educators or those who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with exceptionalities and elevating the field of mild to moderate special education may benefit from earning GCU’s master’s in special education non-licensure degree. 

The program is aligned to both the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC) standards and Council for Exceptional Children Standards. The program is institutionally accredited. Courses are led by knowledgeable instructors who are experienced in special education, mild to moderate disabilities for K-12 education. 

Coursework in the Master’s of Education in Special Education Program

Teacher candidates who choose to earn their MEd in Special Education (non-licensure) degree at GCU will complete field experience assignments within each course. These assignments guide candidates through practice-based and observational experiences. Access to a K–12 classroom is required to complete the non-licensure special education MEd program assignments. The classroom setting must represent mild to moderate disabilities and impairment categories that range from emotional, physical and health to learning and intellectual. 

Study Valuable Skills for Teaching Special Education 

Immerse yourself in the world of teaching special education by developing knowledge to teach and support students with exceptionalities. In this program you will:

  • Discover innovative techniques to engage students with diverse learning abilities in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
  • Gain insight into the educational requirements of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, encompassing definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational strategies
  • Develop an understanding of employing diverse assessment methods and data sources for making diagnostic and educational choices for those with mild to moderate disabilities
  • Foster inclusive, safe learning environments through collaborative efforts, promoting active learning, well-being and self-determination in individuals with disabilities
  • Explore how instructional planning enhances learning for students with exceptionalities using subject-matter knowledge and specialized curricula
  • Build a foundation of understanding diverse settings and learning experiences through individualized education and transition plans
  • Gain field experience and learn to apply theories, research, concepts and strategies learned throughout the course
  • Investigate the use of augmentative and alternative assistive technology, modifications and accommodations to enhance student communication skills
  • Apply research-based strategies for teaching, focusing on math and ELA in academic and specialized curricula

Career Paths for Master’s in Special Education (Non-Licensure) Graduates

Graduates may have the opportunity to pursue careers in various educational settings, such as private, charter and public schools, as well as colleges, social service organizations and higher education institutions.

  • Special education teacher
  • Preschool and kindergarten special education teacher
  • Elementary school special education teacher
  • Middle school special education teacher
  • Secondary school special education teacher
  • Teaching assistant including special education

Further, this degree is worth pursuing if you want to advance your skills to position yourself to move ahead in your career within special education industries of research, policy development, advocacy organizations or within the non-profit sector.

These career paths may provide opportunities to contribute to the advancement of inclusive practices and improve educational opportunities for individuals with exceptionalities.

Master’s in Special Education (Non-Licensure) FAQs

The decision to pursue a special education master’s program often comes with many questions. To help you make your decision, we’ve provided a few frequently asked questions about this degree.

Both the MS and MEd degrees in special education teach advanced skills and knowledge about children with learning or physical disabilities. However, the main difference between an MS (Master of Science) in Special Education and an MEd (Master of Education) in Special Education often lies in their focus and emphasis. 

An MS in Special Education typically has a strong emphasis on research and the acquisition of advanced knowledge in the field of special education. The program may delve into theoretical foundations, research methodologies, data analysis and the application of research findings to inform instructional practices and interventions. Research projects may be required for students to write a thesis or complete a substantial research-based capstone project in the MS in Special Education program.

An MEd in Special Education generally focuses more on the practical application of knowledge and the development of instructional skills. The program may emphasize curriculum development, assessment techniques, classroom management strategies and inclusive education practices. Practical experiences such as student teaching, internships or fieldwork may be incorporated to provide hands-on training.

Obtaining an MEd special education degree can be highly worthwhile for individuals interested in obtaining concentrated skills within special education. This program can equip you with the knowledge and skills that can enable you to make a significant impact on the lives of students with exceptionalities. Further, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, 20,600 new jobs are estimated to open for special education teachers from 2021 to 2031.1

The MEd in Special Education (Non-Licensure) degree requires a significant commitment of time, effort and dedication. The coursework and assignments in this program may cover complex topics, in-depth studies of educational theories, research methodologies, curriculum development and instructional strategies that may be demanding. With proper time management, effective study habits and support from professors and peers, earning a master's in special education online or in the evening can be achievable and may lead to personal and professional growth, expanded career opportunities and a deeper understanding of the field of education.

This degree requires a total of 36 credits for completion. Most of the classes are six weeks in length. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor to better understand how long it takes to earn your degree in teaching special education.

Take the next step in your career and work toward making a lasting impact in the field of special education with GCU's MEd in Special Education program. Start your journey towards becoming an exceptional special education professional by applying to GCU's MEd program today.

If seeking licensure or certification, applicants to the program are responsible for contacting their state department of education for licensure requirements and program approval. In addition, fingerprint and background clearance is required.

1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Special Education Teachers, retrieved on June 30, 2023. 

TOTAL CREDITS & COURSE LENGTH:
Total Credits: 36
Online: 6 weeks
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TRANSFER CREDITS:
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
TUITION RATE:
Online: $590 per credit [More Info]

Course List

Major:
36 credits
Degree Requirements:
36 credits

Core Courses

Course Description

Teacher candidates will survey the philosophical, historical, and sociological influences upon which special educational theories and practices are constructed, and explore a variety of the common issues, trends, and opportunities that professional special educators face in the field. Special Education Teacher candidates will prepare for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University by developing and strengthening the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the College of Education. Practicum/field experience hours: 6. Fingerprint clearance not required.

Course Description

Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify cognitive, linguistic, social and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: 6. Fingerprint clearance not required.

Course Description

Teacher candidates survey professional ethical principles, professional practice standards, law and regulations that guide special educators. Teacher candidates build upon the foundational knowledge to understand the multiple roles and complex situations of professional practice that require attention to a variety of legal, professional, and ethical issues. Practicum/field experience hours: 6. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: SPD-500 or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate of Completion: Special Education, Mild to Moderate.

Course Description

Teacher candidates survey theories and models for effective collaboration and communication with students with exceptionalities, colleagues, other school professionals, families and community members. In addition, teacher candidates apply collaboration and communication theories and models, incorporating technology, across a wide range of contexts to ensure active involvement in the education process for students with exceptionalities. Practicum/field experience hours: 6. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-510.

Course Description

Teacher candidates will investigate diagnostic and assessment tools. Teacher candidates will build foundational knowledge regarding the use of multiple methods of assessment and data-sources for diagnostic and educational decisions for individuals with mild to moderate disabilities. Practicum/field experience hours: 6. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-500 or SPD-502 or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate of Completion: Special Education, Mild to Moderate or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate in Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS 1).

Course Description

Candidates examine the United States Constitution, and the constitution of the State of Arizona. From this foundational review, candidates will explore application of the United States Constitution and the constitution of the State of Arizona in educational contexts. Practicum/field experience hours: 3. Fingerprint clearance not required.

Course Description

Teacher candidates examine how to create safe, inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments through collaboration with colleagues so that individuals with disabilities become active and effective learners and develop emotional well-being, positive social interactions, and self-determination. Teacher candidates focus on behavior management, functional behavior assessments, adaptive behaviors, positive behavior interventions and supports, and behavior improvement plans. Practicum/field experience hours: 9. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-500 or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate of Completion: Special Education, Mild to Moderate.

Course Description

Teacher candidates will examine how instructional planning advances the learning of students with mild to moderate disabilities by drawing upon knowledge of central concepts, structures of the discipline, and tools of inquiry of the academic subject-matter content areas and a variety of specialized curricula. Teacher candidates build foundational knowledge about individualized education plans and transition plans for a wide range of settings and different learning experiences. Teacher candidates engage in organizing knowledge, integrating cross-disciplinary skills, and developing meaningful individualized learning progressions through drafting an IEP. Practicum/field experience hours: 9. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-510 or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate in Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS 1).

Course Description

Teacher candidates explore components of typical and atypical literacy development for students with exceptionalities. Coursework emphasizes research-based phonics development and the science of reading, including phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. Teacher candidates focus on assessing developmental and other literacy concerns, including dyslexia, and differentiation strategies to support literacy development in students with exceptionalities. Practicum/field experience hours: 9. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-510 or ESD-530.

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine the fundamentals of the legal, historical, and educational foundations of Structured English Immersion (SEI) and other instructional programs for English language learners. Theoretical principles of language acquisition and the role of culture in learning are examined. Methods of assessment are identified and analyzed. Teacher candidates identify strategies to promote English language development and improve student achievement. Through Universal Design for Learning they plan, deliver, and evaluate standards-based instruction for English language learners. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required.

Course Description

Teacher candidates build foundational knowledge on a variety of research-based instructional strategies to encourage individuals with mild to moderate disabilities to develop understandings and connections within content areas, and to build skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways. From this foundational knowledge, teacher candidates select, adapt and use research-based instructional strategies and interventions in academic and specialized curricula to advance the learning of students with mild to moderate disabilities with focused attention upon mathematics. Practicum/field experience hours: 12. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: SPD-550 or ESD-530 or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate of Completion: Special Education, Mild to Moderate.

Course Description

Teacher candidates explore the language processing requirements of proficient reading and writing, including explicit, systematic, cumulative, and multisensory instruction that integrates listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, disabilities, such as dyslexia, are reviewed to understand how they affect the acquisition of reading skills and how they vary in presentation and degree. Teacher candidates select, adapt, and use research-based instructional strategies and interventions in academic and specialized curricula to advance the learning for all students, including those with mild to moderate disabilities, with attention focused on literacy and reading. Practicum/field experience hours: 12. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: (SPD-550 and SPD-578) or approved enrollment in the Graduate Certificate of Completion: Special Education, Mild to Moderate.

Locations

GCU Online Student


Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.

GCU Evening Student


Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom.

* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.

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