Master of Education in Special Education (Online)

Help make education accessible for all students

Good teachers change lives. It's that simple. As a special education teacher, you make education accessible for all students. Alvernia University's education programs focus on a values-centered approach toward the preparation of caring, highly qualified candidates uniquely prepared to address the needs of the diverse populations in today’s schools. The Master of Education in Special Education Program is designed for special education teachers who seek to advance as an instructional leader. Take advantage of:
 

• online coursework
• $516/credit tuition rate, aligned with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) institutions
• rolling admissions
• Act 48 credits

Learn more about Alvernia's online Special Education programs and Alvernia's Master of Education programs.

Getting Started

Request More Information

Loading...

Application Instructions

Alvernia University uses the rolling admission process: that is, we continually accept and review applications. This provides an advantage of starting the program at your convenience. Here's how to apply for the Master of Education in Special Education.

Financing Your Education

There are options to assist in financing your education and making the tuition affordable. Visit our financial aid page for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application, as well as more information about the tuition payment plan and the tuition deferment program we offer. Alvernia’s Title IV code for the FAFSA is 003233. The Office of Student Financial Services is available to help with any questions you may have. Call 610-796-8201 or email sfs@alvernia.edu.

Program Overview

Topics of Study

• Key disabilities
• Research-based practices in providing equitable and inclusive education to the students with special needs
• Technology to assist individuals with disabilities
• Special education law
• School law
• Research for educators
• Professional ethics

Curriculum

The Master of Education in Special Education curriculum includes the coursework in two areas: special education and core master of education courses, total of 11 courses (33 credits) with field experiences. Up to 6 graduate credits from another university may be transferred upon approval. Course credits may be used as Act 48 credits. 
 

Special Education Courses (18 credits)

• MED 505, Introduction to Special Education (3 credits, 5 field hours)
• MED 515, Differentiated Instruction in the Inclusive Classroom (3 credits, 5 field hours, pre-requisite MED 505)
• MED 535, Collaboration and Legal Issues for Special Education (3 credits, pre-requisite MED 515)
• MED 542, Assessment and Instruction of Students with Developmental Disabilities (3 credits, 10 field hours)
• MED 605, Enhancing Literacy for the Special Needs Students (3 credits, 20 field hours)
• MED XXX, Elective
   

M.Ed. Courses (15 credits)

• COR 520, Ethics and Moral Leadership (3 credits)
• MED 518, Quantitative Research Methods (3 credits)
• MED 520, Educators as Researchers (3 credits)
• MED 610, School Law & Social Advocacy (3 credits)
• MED 680, Research Seminar (3 credits)

Accreditation

• The Special Education (PK-12) Certification Program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
• Alvernia University is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Career Outlook

After earning your Master of Education with Special Education Certification online, you can pursue a variety of careers, including:
 

• Special education/learning support teacher
• Subject area teacher certified in Special Education (PK-12) 
• Special education supervisor/director

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, about the average for all occupations. The median annual wage in 2021 was $61,820.