Special Education Master's Degree Programs Online

Individuals entering into a master's level program in special education have already earned their bachelor's degrees. Many master's degree candidates are teachers who would like to acquire the knowledge necessary to be licensed as special education teachers. In my school district, there was a shortage of special education teachers. Many teachers were pursuing their master's degrees in special education in order to ensure employment. There are plenty of special education master's degree programs online that will fit into a busy teacher's life.

University of Phoenix: Online Master of Art in Education with a Specialization in Special Education

The courses involved in this online special education master's degree program will include orientation to the exceptional child, diagnosis and assessment of disabilities, foundations and methodology of mild disabilities, and inclusion strategies. Students are required to log approximately 100 hours of classroom observations, directly related to their course content. Student teaching is an integral part of the program where students will experience various aspects of special education. The action research project relates directly to the professional scope the student is personally experiencing.

Capella University: Online Master of Science with Special Education Teacher Specialization

Blair, one of the counselors from Capella University tells me that students from all over the United States earn master's degrees at their university. This special education online master's degree program includes courses from the foundations of special education to assessing and planning for learning disabilities. Most candidates for this degree are currently regular classroom teachers or special education teachers who wish to earn an endorsement in learning disabilities.

Drexel University: Online Master of Science in Special Education

Drexel University's online master's degree program in special education is intended for any teacher who wishes to expand her knowledge base regarding exceptional students. It is also designed for those regular classroom teachers who wish to become certified in special education. Students in this program take 49.5 credits. 31.5 credits are in the core special education classes; 12 credits are in the concentration areas such as autism, technologies for special education, and language and cultural issues; 6 credits are devoted to research.

The laws vary for every state. If you are considering earning a master's degree in one of the online special education programs, check with your state's Department of Education and your local school district. Make sure the degree will meet their standards of acceptance. Talk to colleagues who have earned their degrees through the online program that you are considering. Their input may help you to make a wise decision.

Online Master's Degree: Is It Right for You?
National Curriculum Standards in Education Endorsed by Most States