Program Overview

---

Overview of the Online Master of Education in Special Education

The online Master of Education in Special Education offered by Arizona State University prepares students to support K-12 students with mild-moderate disabilities. This program focuses on creating learning environments that empower students with special needs and builds a meaningful career in education.

Program Details

• Total classes: 11
• Weeks per class: 15
• Total credit hours: 31
• Next start date: 01/12/2026

Choosing the Right Special Education Master's Program

ASU offers multiple online graduate programs in special education, each designed to support different career goals. These include:

• Special Education: This program deepens knowledge of K-12 special education and is ideal for those currently certified or not needing certification.
• Special Education with Teacher Certification: Designed for students seeking teacher certification in K-12 special education, with traditional and alternative pathway routes.
• Special Education with a Concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Prepares educators to provide research-based support for autistic individuals.
• Special Education with a Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Specializes in ABA to support individuals with learning and behavior challenges.

Special Education Master's Courses

Coursework explores various topics, including:

• Instructional methods
• Assessment strategies
• Special education law and ethics
• Language and literacy development
• The program culminates in an applied research project where students identify an educational challenge and design an intervention.

Core Courses

• Creating Learning Environments: Decision-Making and Action
• Cultivating Networks of Culturally Responsive Relationships among Families, Communities and Cultures
• Instruction and Assessment for Learners with Exceptionalities I
• Instruction and Assessment for Learners with Exceptionalities II
• Instructional Design, Planning and Assessment
• Instructional Methods for Language and Literacy
• K–8 Mathematics Methods and Assessment
• Language and Communication Methods and Assessment

Career Opportunities

This graduate degree prepares students for roles that do not require certification in K-12 special education, such as:

• Educator in non-school settings
• Instructional assistant
• Teacher aid
• Teacher assistant
• Tutor
• Youth development specialist
• Youth director

Faculty and Expertise

The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology, and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices, and the effects of education policy.

Application Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation. Requirements include:

• Graduate admission application and application fee
• Official transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Resume
• An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Use the tuition calculator to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Accreditation and Rankings

Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation is recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report, including rankings for best online master’s programs in educational administration, curriculum and instruction, and special education.