Program Overview

Special Education, MEd

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a Master of Education in Special Education, a program designed to help students with disabilities reach their full potential. This graduate program teaches proven strategies that spark engagement, unlock understanding, and boost achievement. Through practical application, students can become the catalyst for transformative learning for every student.

Program Overview

The MEd in Special Education allows students to focus their studies on three concentrations:

• Behavioral Principles and Interventions
• Inclusive Education
• Transition Studies Whichever specialization is chosen, the UMSL master's in special education equips students with the deepest expertise and most practical skills available in the St. Louis region.

Concentrations

• Behavioral Principles and Interventions: Learn how to understand behavior and design effective interventions. Assess student needs and create plans to address them, promoting academic and social success for all students.
• Inclusive Education: Become an expert in creating inclusive learning environments. Graduates will have the skills to advocate for evidence-based strategies and collaborate with families and professionals to support all students.
• Transition Studies: Prepare students with disabilities for a smooth transition beyond high school. This emphasis equips students to develop personalized plans, connect students with resources, and evaluate options to ensure their success.

Program Type and Format

The program is a Graduate, MEd, offered in both On-Campus and 100% Online formats.

Career Opportunities

The MEd in Special Education is ideal for teachers, K-12 educators, specialists, and advocates who want to ignite positive change for students with disabilities. Career paths include:

• Adult Basic, Literacy and Secondary Education Teacher
• Career and Technical Education Teacher
• Curriculum Developer
• Educational Administrator
• Educational Consultant
• Educational Program Planner
• Instructional Coordinator
• Post-Secondary Teacher
• Post-Secondary Administrator
• Special Education Teacher
• Textbook Writer

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements include:

• An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with an overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher
• A completed UMSL Graduate School Application
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• Two letters of recommendation

Application Deadlines

• Fall: July 1
• Spring: December 1
• Summer: May 1

Why Earn Your Master's in Special Education at UMSL?

An MEd in Special Education from UMSL equips students with the critical skills and knowledge needed to positively impact children with disabilities. Students will dive into current research, analyze data, and master best practices to create inclusive and effective learning environments where all students thrive.

Benefits

• Unmatched expertise: Learn from faculty who actively shape careers in special education with the latest teaching methodologies.
• Practical applications: Hands-on experience in special education teacher jobs means students can make a difference, even before they graduate.
• Supportive community: Connect with like-minded educators who share a passion for working with students with disabilities and improving learning outcomes.
• Flexibility for working professionals: The master's in special education can be earned on campus or online, with an average of 2.5 years to completion, allowing students to take courses full- or part-time.

What Can You Do with an MEd in Special Education?

With an MEd in Special Education from UMSL, students will enter a high-demand field that is rewarding both personally and professionally. Through a rigorous and relevant curriculum, students will be equipped to:

• Align IEP goals with grade-level standards, leveraging inclusive frameworks and fostering collaboration.
• Interpret rights, design individualized programs, and collaborate with families for success.
• Apply knowledge of abilities/disabilities to create tailored learning experiences.
• Use assessments and evidence-based practices to personalize education.
• Advocate, collaborate, and lead positive change in classrooms and communities.

Employment and Salary

Employment of special education teachers is projected to remain steady over the next decade, with a median annual salary of $62,950, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Plan of Study

Students can choose their emphasis from:

• Behavior Principles and Interventions
• Inclusive Education
• Transition Studies

Student Organizations and Involvement

Students can make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of the Recognized Student Organizations. Career Services are also available, providing assistance with resume development, interview preparation, and more. Networking opportunities are plentiful, with access to the largest alumni network in the region.

Research Opportunities

There are many opportunities for graduate students to showcase their research, including the annual Graduate Research Fair and the Three Minute Thesis challenge.

Related Majors

Explore more degree options, such as:

• School Counseling, MEd
• Education, MEd
• Educational Psychology, MEd
• Applied Behavior Analysis, MS

UMSL College of Education

The UMSL College of Education transforms lives, shapes the educational landscape in the St. Louis region, advances educator quality and professional development in Missouri, and is recognized nationally as a leader of vital research and as a hub of innovation.