MA/MS SPED
Master of Special Education
The Master’s in Special Education program is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge of individuals with special educational needs and the social, cultural, and developmental contexts that shape their learning experiences. This program provides a strong foundation in social and behavioral sciences, research methodologies, and evidence-based practices in special education.
Students will explore key psychological processes, major child development stages, and lifespan learning, gaining expertise in cognition, social development, and special education assessment. The curriculum includes core courses in theory, research methods, and intervention strategies, allowing students to specialize in an area of concentration.
This degree prepares graduates for careers in education, psychology, speech-language pathology, social work, medicine, nursing, and public policy. It is also ideal for educators and professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in inclusive education and student support services.
The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering opportunities for independent and supervised research that connects scientific studies to real-world educational challenges.
Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to support diverse learners, contribute to special education policy development, and advance research-based educational practices in a variety of professional settings.
Credit Name | Course Title | Number of credits | Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|---|
SPED5500 | Philosophical Foundations of Education and Psychology | 2cr | LM |
SPED5501 | Diversity and Inclusivity | 1cr | LM |
SPED5502 | Psychology of Learning (Cultural Psychology*) | 3cr | EG |
SPED6600 | Human Development-Lifespan | 3cr | EG |
SPED6601 | Psychological Testing | 3cr | CC |
SPED6602 | Behavioral and Emotional Problems of Children* | 3cr | EG |
SPED6603 | Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children* | 3cr | EG |
SPED6604 | Instructional Design for Special Education* | 3cr | LB |
SPED6605 | Education of Students with Reading, Writing and Math Disabilities | 3cr | CC |
SPED6606 | Reading and Writing Assessment and Interventions | 3cr | LB |
SPED6607 | Crisis Intervention* | 1cr | LB |
SPED7702 | Research Methods (IP)** | 3cr | LC/
LM/ |
SPED7703 | Academic, Behavioral, Cognitive, and Adaptive Assessment | 3cr | CC |
SPED7704 | Psychoeducational Consultation* | 3cr | CC |
SPED7708 | Critical Issues in Special Education | 3cr | LB |
SPED7709 | Models of Disability | 3cr | LC |
SPED7710 | Inclusive Education - the Global South Perspective | 3cr | LC |
SPED7711 | Master’s Thesis** | 3cr | EG/
LC/
LM/
KD+ |
TOTAL | 49cr |
Tuition Fees
The cost of a college education in the United States has reached staggering heights, with the average student spending $38,270 per year on tuition, books, supplies, and living expenses. According to Melanie Hanson's report on the Average Cost of College & Tuition (last updated December 26, 2024), college costs have more than doubled in the 21st century, with tuition increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.04%. Public in-state students living on campus pay an average of $27,146 per year, while out-of-state tuition drives costs even higher, averaging $28,386 for tuition alone. Private nonprofit universities demand an even steeper price, with total annual expenses reaching $58,628. Factoring in student loan interest and lost income, the true cost of a bachelor's degree can surpass $500,000, raising concerns about affordability and long-term financial impact.
Tuition per year: US$15,000
