Special Education | Master in Education

Special Education | Master in Education | Online

An online Master of Education in Special Education from East Central University explores the unique learning abilities and psychological requirements of children with disabilities. Our curriculum covers teaching methods and various technologies, as well as ethical and legal considerations, necessary to work in special education.

In addition to our in-depth coursework, you’ll have access to our interactive platform, which allows you to network with other students and make connections with fellow professionals. You’ll complete practicum experiences with children who are at various levels of academic functioning before you begin student teaching.

The program prepares you to sit for state certification for teaching children with mild/moderate disabilities from preschool through high school and is based on the Council for Exceptional Children (ECE) Initial Professional Standards for Special Educators and Initial Practice-Based Preparation Standards for Special Educators. In the last three and a half years, 100% of students have completed the program, and 100% of graduates secured teaching positions.

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Topics of Study

The M.Ed. Special Education online program teaches a host of subjects crucial to success in the field, along with 12 semester hours in science, mathematics, social studies and language arts. Some other topics of study include:

• Behavior modification
• Cultural diversity
• Dignity and responsive teaching

You will also be required to complete a practicum to gain hands-on experience in the field.

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Learning Outcomes

When you graduate, you will be able to:

• Develop and demonstrate the content knowledge and practice-based teaching skills to provide effective instruction for students with mild to moderate disabilities.
• Develop the capacity to identify and implement evidence-based programs, instructional and behavioral interventions and high leverage practices to teach students with mild to moderate disabilities and special needs.
• Enhance critical thinking skills and an experiential base for professional positions in clinical, educational and other related settings.

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Admission Requirements

To be accepted into ECU’s online special education master’s degree, you must meet the following criteria:

• Have a minimum cumulative 2.5 grade-point average on all undergraduate coursework to date; or
• Have a minimum 2.75 GPA for the last 60 credit hours of coursework; or
• Have a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA for at least 9 credit hours of graduate coursework

How to Apply

To apply, you must submit the following materials: 

• Complete application
• Transcripts of all completed work (baccalaureate and graduate) from an accredited institution
• Resumé
• Three references
• A personal statement. Explain your career goals, how an ECU degree will help you accomplish those goals, your interest in the field and any actions you have taken to pursue this interest. You must also describe any skills, attributes or experiences you possess that would aid in your future profession.