Online Master’s (MEd) in Special Education Degree
Online Master’s (MEd) in Special Education Degree
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Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).
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.
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 exceptionalities. 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.
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 exceptionalities and impairment categories that range from emotional, physical and health to learning and intellectual.
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 exceptionalities and their families, encompassing definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational strategies.
Develop an understanding of diverse assessment methods and data sources
for making diagnostic and educational choices for those with mild to moderate exceptionalities.
Foster inclusive, safe learning environments
through collaborative efforts, promoting active learning, well-being and self-determination in individuals with exceptionalities.
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 discover how to apply theories, research, concepts and strategies learned throughout the program.
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.
This non-licensure initial special education MEd program can help teacher candidates increase their familiarity with mild to moderate exceptionalities, while advancing knowledge in assessment and transition planning. This initial special education, mild to moderate K-12 program, does not lead to teaching licensure.
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 are not required to fulfill the 15-week student teaching component. This option is for those seeking to advance knowledge in the area but not seeking licensing certification. This route has 36 total credits, as opposed to 44 credits with the licensure route. Candidates who take this route cannot obtain an Institutional Recommendation (IR) from GCU.
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 exceptionalities for K-12 education.
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 exceptionalities. 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.
Graduates may pursue careers in settings, such as private, charter and public schools, as well as colleges, social service organizations and higher education institutions.
These career paths may provide opportunities to contribute to the advancement of inclusive practices and improve educational opportunities for individuals with exceptionalities.
More examples of career opportunities include:
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
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 today.
