Special Education (M.Ed.)

Specialize your training to support all individuals with diverse learning abilities and behavioral needs through professional excellence and advocacy.

For individuals without an undergraduate education degree, earn a Master's of Education from a Special Education Program that aspires to be globally renowned for its expertise, leadership, diversity, and high quality teacher and professional preparation in the field of special education.

Why Study Special Education at UND?

The program is designed for educators and other professionals interested in the study of children, adolescents and/or adults with diverse learning abilities. The degree is appropriate for certified teachers as well as candidates with a bachelor's degree in a field other than education. The degree emphasizes scholarly application for practitioners, and students may continue their education and pursue a Doctor of Education (beginning at UND in Fall 2019). In addition, UND is the only university in the United States to offer a fully online master's program in the area of visual impairment.

You can choose from nine specializations:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • ASD also offered as a certificate
• Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
• General Special Education
• Emotional Behavioral Disorders (EBD)
• Gifted/Talented (G/T)
• Intellectual Disabilities (ID)
• Learning Disabilities (LD)
• Special Education Strategist (SES)
• Visual Impairment (VI)

Online students have an affordable tuition rate. You will pay the in-state tuition as a North Dakota resident.

You will learn from an interdisciplinary group of faculty members with extensive experience as practitioners, professors and researchers. We offer an approved teacher certification program for North Dakota that is transferable to most states.

For current teachers or for those seeking ABA specialization, earn your M.S. in Special Education. 

Top Online Special Education Degree in the Nation

Every special education program offers education, but not every program prepares students to make a real impact the way UND does. UND is increasingly regarded as one of the top academic and research institutions in the nation for education. We consistently rank among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top online Education program.

#21 - Best online graduate education program for veterans according to U.S. News & World Report.

Accredited Special Education Program

The Special Education Program within the Department of Teaching, Learning & Professional Practice is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by Educational Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).