Program Overview

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Special Education

The NC State University Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Special Education prepares candidates to teach in K-12 schools in the U.S. Graduates earn both an initial North Carolina teaching license in Special Education: General Curriculum and a master’s degree. In the MAT curriculum, teachers grow in knowledge and impact while learning how to integrate practice with theory in today’s culturally rich and technology-enhanced classrooms.

Delivery Format

The program is delivered online, with courses including lecture videos, activities, and other media accessed from NC State’s WolfWare website. Using online communication tools, students in these courses interact extensively with both the instructor and their peers.

Entrance Exam

No entrance exam is required for the program.

College of Education

The program is part of the College of Education at NC State University.

Program Details

• The MAT program in Special Education is designed for those who hold a bachelor’s degree but do not hold a valid North Carolina teaching license.
• The program can be completed online using distance education courses.
• Students can receive placements close to their place of residency and can complete the program on a residency license.
• A total of 30 credit hours are required to complete the MAT program in Special Education.
• Students are allowed to enroll with either part- or full-time status and can begin their studies in the spring, fall, or summer academic terms.

Eligibility

Applicants must have:

• A bachelor’s degree from a college or university that holds regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting agency such as SACS.
• A 3.0 GPA or higher in prior work, as required by the Graduate School.
• Up to 12 credit hours with a grade of “B” or better can be transferred into a master’s degree program.

Plan of Study

MAT participants can undertake this program full-time or part-time. Depending on the content area, the program is 30 credit hours, including a full-semester student teaching experience. Most students complete the program in 1-2 years.

Career Prospects

Special education teachers are best equipped for success when they receive instruction in teaching methodologies, assessment, assistive technology, special education law, and planning and curriculum specific to children with special needs. The MAT in Special Education also delves into diagnosis and related accommodations and prescriptive strategies unique to children with exceptionalities, preparing graduates for successful careers working in special education.

Accreditation

North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.