M.A.Ed. - Special Education
Virtual Open House - Thursday, August 6: 5–6 pm
Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝, participate in a Q&A with current students, and meet key program representatives.
Advance Your Impact—and Your Career—Through Special Education Leadership
ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝â€™s Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Special Education is designed for passionate educators and professionals working with individuals with disabilities who are ready to deepen their expertise and expand opportunities for every learner. What sets our program apart is a powerful advantage: integrated preparation for National Board Certification embedded directly into your coursework—so you can work toward one of the profession’s highest credentials while earning your master’s degree.
With built-in support, personalized coaching, and assignments aligned to National Board standards, you’ll graduate not only with advanced knowledge and hands-on experience, but also with a clear path to certification—and the potential for a 12% salary increase in North Carolina public schools.
At ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝, your graduate experience is more than a degree—it’s a strategic step toward leadership and lasting impact in the field of special education.
Earn Your Master's Degree and National Board Certification
What You'll Learn
In ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝'s MAEd in Special Education, you'll develop the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to support diverse learners and lead in today's classrooms. Through a blend of research-based coursework and applied experiences, you will:
- Strengthen your ability to design and deliver effective instruction for students with varying abilities and exceptionalities
Build expertise in assessment, data-driven decision-making, and individualized program
planning- Deepen your understanding of inclusive practices and specialized supports across K–12 settings
- Engage in coursework aligned to National Board Standards while practicing the four components of certification through embedded assignments
With individualized coaching and feedback woven throughout the program, you'll graduate confident in your skills—and prepared to take the next step toward National Board Certification.
Where You'll Go
Graduates of ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝â€™s MAEd in Special Education are prepared to make an immediate and lasting impact in schools and communities. With an advanced license in your selected concentration, you’ll be equipped for roles such as:
- Special education teacher (advanced licensure, K–12)
- Instructional leader or department chair
- Intervention specialist or program coordinator
- Advocate for inclusive and equitable practices in schools and districts
Beyond career advancement, this program positions you for professional recognition and increased earning potential. By completing coursework that supports National Board Certification, you’ll be on a clear path toward achieving this distinguished credential—along with the potential for a 12% salary increase in North Carolina public schools.
In addition to traditional school-based roles, graduates of the Educational Studies (non-licensure) concentration are prepared for careers in nonprofit organizations, private or charter schools, adult services, higher education, and advocacy settings supporting individuals with disabilities. Whether you’re looking to deepen your classroom impact, expand into leadership, or make a difference in your community, ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝â€™s MAEd in Special Education helps you move forward with purpose and confidence.
Next Steps
More About ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝'s MAED - Special Education Program
If you’re ready to expand your impact and grow as a leader in special education, you’re in the right place. ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝â€™s MAEd in Special Education is designed for licensed educators who want to deepen their expertise, refine their practice, and advance their careers—while balancing the demands of a working professional.
This fully online program blends advanced coursework, practical application, and embedded National Board Certification support to strengthen your instructional practice, assessment skills, and leadership capacity across diverse learner needs.
The program offers four concentration areas—mild-to-moderate disabilities, severe-to-profound disabilities, gifted, creative, and innovative education, and educational studies (non-licensure)—allowing you to tailor your graduate experience to your professional goals—whether you are pursuing advanced licensure or seeking specialized expertise through the non-licensure Educational Studies option.
Flexible online coursework designed for working educators.
Interested in This Program?
Get In Touch
