Embarking on a journey in special education? You’re in the right place. This online master’s in Special Education guide is designed to help you navigate through the vast sea of choices. It connects you with the best online programs tailored for those eager to make a tangible difference. The ideal institution prioritizes your unique goals, letting you tailor your higher education experience. With the added convenience of online learning, balancing your professional and educational pursuits has never been easier. If you’re ready to amplify your career and impact in special education, let’s dive into the top online programs waiting for you.
Top Online Master’s Degrees in Special Education (SpEd) for 2024
We have ranked the top schools below. Our Rankings Data comes from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES.) Click the About the Ranking link below for more information about our methodology.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
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River Forest, ILPrivate not-for-profit $
Concordia University Chicago is a Lutheran-based Christian university offering a Master of Arts (MA) in special education. This degree is designed to help students who currently hold Illinois teaching licesure earn an LBS1 (Learning Behavior Specialist 1) endorsement. This degree can be completed either online or on campus. You should have at least two years of teaching experience to be considered for this program and expect to conduct independent research as part of your degree.
Program Highlights:
Special Education, LBS1 (MA)
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 Years
- Cost: $478/credit
- Mode: In-person, Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Programs
3
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
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Storm Lake, IAPrivate not-for-profit $
The Master of Education (MEd) in special education at Buena Vista University is a two-year online master’s program with four different track options. You can choose one of three instruction specialist tracks (mild to moderate disabilities, behavior disorder/learning disabilities, and cognitive/intellectual disabilities) or the comprehensive track, which combines all endorsements for a more intensive experience. All tracks are designed to comply with Iowa Board of Education guidelines. You will not need to submit GRE scores to apply but should hold a valid teaching license and undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher.
Program Highlights:
Master of Education — Special Education
- Credits: Varies
- Length: 2 Years
- Cost: $285 per credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
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Seward, NEPrivate not-for-profit $
Concordia University-Nebraska, a private Lutheran Christian university, offers a 100% online Master in Education (MEd) in special education. Students take courses in assessment techniques, behavior management, and inclusive instructional methods. In addition to your coursework, you will also have the opportunity to observe classroom techniques firsthand, as there is a 20-hour fieldwork element to your degree. Although Concordia is a private university, Nebraska residents are eligible for reduced tuition.
Program Highlights:
M.Ed. in Special Education
- Credits: 30-51
- Length: 2-3 Years
- Cost: $340/credit (in-state) – $425/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Sioux City, IAPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Ann Arbor, MIPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Niagara University, NYPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Orange City, IAPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Danville, VAPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Springfield, MOPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Baldwin City, KSPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Saint Bonaventure, NYPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Fresno, CAPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
4
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Philadelphia, PAPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Winfield, KSPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Fond Du Lac, WIPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Saint Paul, MNPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Saint Louis, MOPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Mequon, WIPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Fort Wayne, INPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Philadelphia, PAPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Chambersburg, PAPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Bronx, NYPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
3
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Lakewood, COPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Denver, COPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
La Mirada, CAPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Jonesboro, ARPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Cincinnati, OHPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Odessa, TXPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Duluth, MNPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Saint Louis, MOPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Longmeadow, MAPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
12/1
-
Wilkes-Barre, PAPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Plainview, TXPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
9/1
-
Las Cruces, NMPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Rochester, NYPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Macomb, ILPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
New York, NYPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
3
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
10/1
-
Kearney, NEPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Lynchburg, VAPrivate not-for-profit $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Bismarck, NDPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Athens, OHPublic $
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Clarion, PAPublic $
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Center Valley, PAPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Muncie, INPublic $
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Gainesville, GAPrivate not-for-profit $$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
9/1
-
Jacksonville, ALPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
19/1
-
Los Angeles, CAPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Portland, MEPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
13/1
-
Orono, MEPublic $
Online Programs
1
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Jersey City, NJPublic $$
Online Programs
2
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
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Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Program Spotlights: Special Education Master’s Degrees Online
With online learning’s surging popularity, 40% of graduate students opted for full online degrees in 2021 and 56% enrolled in at least one online course, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This learning mode offers unparalleled flexibility, especially appealing to working professionals and parents. An online master’s in Special Education can elevate career prospects, deepen understanding of learning disabilities, enable tailored lesson creation, and make a lasting impact on students’ lives.
While each program boasts unique offerings, regional accreditation remains a consistent marker of quality and rigor. This certification ensures a program’s adherence to educational standards. As prospective students navigate their choices, understanding institutional goals and outcomes helps them make informed decisions. The adaptability of online education, whether to fast-track or dive deeper, addresses the diverse needs of today’s learners.
Below are some of the best options for those seeking an online master’s degree in Special Education.
SUNY Potsdam
SUNY Potsdam’s Special Education, MSEd program provides a deep understanding of learning disabilities, emphasizing strategies for success, assessment, and intervention. It prioritizes creating inclusive classrooms with differentiated instruction by integrating advanced tech-based teaching methods. Students also gain collaborative skills for team dynamics and expertise in behavior management and stay updated on current special education policies and research.
Program highlights:
- Degree: Special Education, MSEd
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and minimum GPA of 3.0
- Cost: $471/credit (NY residents); $565/credit (out-of-state)
- Credits: 36 credits
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
Drexel University
Drexel University’s online Master of Science in Special Education program delivers a holistic understanding of special education, focusing on autism spectrum disorders, the ever-evolving landscape of special education law, and the competencies needed for initial education certification.
Program highlights:
- Degree: Master of Science in Special Education
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and minimum GPA of 3.0
- Cost: $1,079/credit
- Credits: 48 credits
- Mode: Online with practicum experience
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Capella University
Dedicated to aiding children with special needs to realize their utmost potential, Capella University’s MS in Education, Special Education Teaching program offers a curriculum centered on specialized teaching techniques, curriculum building, and professional collaboration to drive optimal outcomes for students of varying abilities. Key features include individualized evaluation planning, a curriculum in alignment with national special education teaching standards, and an emphasis on data-based decision-making to foster student success.
Program highlights:
- Degree: MS in Education, Special Education Teaching
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and minimum GPA of 2.3
- Cost: $470/credit with a range of $15,980 to $21,620 based on various factors
- Credits: 46 program credits
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation Status: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree in Special Education Cost?
Pursuing an online master’s degree in Special Education reflects a passion and a profound commitment to shaping a brighter future. However, the question of affordability can be daunting. Don’t worry, though, because you’re not in this alone. A range of financial aid options are available to support you, from federal aid and student loans to specialized scholarships and fellowships. Your workplace might even chip in with tuition assistance. Need more details on navigating this financial terrain? Dive into our Financial Aid Guide, Understanding FAFSA, and Scholarships Information. Some programs are outlined below to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of costs.
How Much Your Online Master’s in Special Education Could Cost
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUNY Potsdam | 36 | $471 | $16,956 |
| Drexel University | 48 | $1,079 | $51,792 |
| Capella University | 46 | $470 | $21,620 |
| Touro College | 36-42 | $650 | $27,300 |
| Liberty University | 36 | $415 | $14,940 |
What to Expect in Your Online Master’s Degree Program in Special Education
Choosing an online Masters in Special Education means you’re gearing up for a deeply enriching academic experience. At the core of this degree, the curriculum introduces you to the complexities of diverse learning needs and equips you with strategies to cater to students with special requirements. Most programs culminate in a significant project, like a capstone or thesis showcasing your acquired expertise, and a specific number of hours of pre-residency classroom field observations.
The beauty of online master’s programs lies in their blend of flexibility and structure. Leveraging cutting-edge digital platforms, students interact seamlessly with peers and professors, submit assignments, and partake in vibrant discussion threads. While some classes follow a real-time schedule with synchronous participation, others offer the luxury of on-demand lectures. This ensures that whether you’re a night owl, an early riser, or juggling multiple commitments, your educational journey remains accessible, allowing you to learn at a pace that complements your lifestyle. Keep in mind, though, that your pre-residency classroom hours cannot be completed online.
Common Online Masters of Special Education Courses
Special Education Law and Process
Dive deep into the intricate legal landscape of special education. This comprehensive course unpacks the pivotal laws, regulations, and legal cases shaping the special education field. From understanding the foundational rights of students with disabilities to decoding the intricate responsibilities that schools and educators shoulder, students are equipped with the legal knowledge essential to advocate for their future students and navigate the complexities of the education system. Drexel University delivers this course through experienced faculty, including former special education officers, attorneys, mediators, teachers, administrators, and advocates. Their combined expertise spans special education law, policy, and procedure.
Integrating Technology for Learning & Achievement
Embrace the transformative power of technology in special education. This course introduces you to the latest in assistive technology tools and platforms and dives into the practical methodologies for integrating these technologies into diverse learning environments. Learn how digital tools can make learning more accessible, enrich the educational experience, and open doors for students with varied needs. This course, titled Using Educational Technology for Teaching and Learning, at Western Governors University focuses on integrating technology into classrooms to enhance instruction based on ISTE standards. It covers digital tools for curriculum enhancement, student communication, engagement, and ethics and addresses assistive technologies for diverse learners, culminating in practical technology applications in teaching.
Foundations of Special Education
Embark on thoroughly exploring special education’s roots, principles, and practices. This foundational course provides a panoramic view of the field, tracing its evolution and diving deep into the various disability categories. Beyond understanding the challenges, students are introduced to proven strategies and methodologies tailored for each disability type. The aim is to inform and equip future educators with a solid grounding for addressing diverse learning needs with confidence and compassion. At SUNY Plattsburgh, this course offers an overview of special education, covering disability classifications, legislative aspects, and contemporary issues. Teacher candidates also explore differentiated teaching methods to effectively engage all students.
Special Education Methods of Instruction and Intervention
Special education demands a unique set of teaching techniques, and this course is your comprehensive guide. Explore hands-on methods of crafting curriculum, designing lesson plans, and implementing targeted interventions that cater to the diverse needs of special education students. From understanding individualized education plans to mastering classroom management in varied learning scenarios, this course ensures you walk away with a robust set of skills, ready to make a meaningful impact in the classrooms. At Western Governors University, you learn evidence-based instructional strategies tailored for students with exceptionalities. Emphasis is on individualized interventions, data-informed decisions, collaboration with educators, and teaching mastery and cognitive strategies. The course underscores the link between curriculum, instruction, and assessment, highlighting the use of student data in tailoring instruction.
Educational Psychology and Human Development of Children and Adolescents
This course bridges educational practices with key psychological theories, offering insights into children’s and adolescents’ emotional, cognitive, and social development stages. Students are better positioned to tailor their teaching approaches, address challenges, and nurture potential by studying how these young learners think, feel, and interact. Educational Psychology and Human Development of Children and Adolescents at WGU dives into research-backed developmental and psychological theories, emphasizing their classroom applications from early childhood to adolescence. It also helps candidates formulate a personal educational philosophy, incorporating insights from observed virtual classroom settings and integrating key themes of technology and diversity.
Job Outlook: What Can You Do with a Master’s Degree in Special Education
Stepping into the Special Education field with a master’s degree can dramatically broaden your horizons. This advanced degree positions you as a leader in the field and unveils many opportunities in diverse educational settings. Graduates find themselves highly sought-after by both public and private educational institutions, therapy centers, and specialized support organizations. With a master’s in hand, you’re equipped to command higher salaries, occupy senior roles, and make impactful changes compared to peers with bachelor’s degrees.
Career #1: Behavior Intervention Specialist
In this pivotal role, you’re entrusted with developing and overseeing programs tailored for students with behavioral challenges. Your master’s in Special Education instills a deep understanding of psychological and behavioral strategies, ensuring interventions are both effective and compassionate.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $56,984 | $63,601 | $70,787 |
Source: Salary.com, 2022
Career #2: Special Education Teacher
Taking the helm of a classroom as a Special Education Teacher, you’ll employ a wide range of teaching methods tailored to students with varied learning needs. A master’s degree in Special Education hones your skills, equipping you with advanced teaching techniques and a profound understanding of different learning styles and challenges.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $45,780 | $62,950 | $102,450 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Career #3: Education Administrator
In this leadership role, you’ll shape the direction of special education programs and ensure compliance with educational standards. With the advanced training from your master’s program, you are uniquely positioned to drive improvements, ensure the quality of programs, and advocate for the needs of special education students.
| 10th Percentile | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| $48,650 | $89,130 | $154,690 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
FAQs About Online Master’s Programs in Special Education
Diving into an online master’s in Special Education journey is exciting but often accompanied by questions. To guide you through the decision-making process, we’ve answered six of the most common questions from potential students, aiming to provide clarity and help you make informed choices about your educational future.
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Are online master’s degree programs in Special Education fully online?
Most online master’s programs in Special Education offer a fully online experience, allowing students to balance personal and professional commitments. However, some programs adopt a hybrid approach, integrating occasional on-campus meetups or workshops. For example, a program might require its students to attend an annual seminar on campus or partake in face-to-face practicums within local schools. Before enrolling, clarifying these details with the institution is essential to ensure alignment with your schedule and preferences. It’s also important to remember that pre-resident classroom hours must occur in a physical classroom setting.
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What does the admissions process look like for this degree?
The admissions process for a master’s in Special Education typically involves submitting academic transcripts for proof of a bachelor’s degree, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. While many institutions waive standardized tests like the GRE due to the evolving educational landscape, some still consider scores, especially when determining eligibility for scholarships or grants. There are typically GPA requirements for programs as well. Unique to some Special Education programs, applicants might be asked to provide evidence of teaching experience or a valid teaching license, especially if the program gears toward currently practicing educators.
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How long does it take to complete a master’s degree in Special Education online?
A standard online master’s degree in Special Education typically spans two years when pursued full-time. However, several factors can adjust this timeline. Accelerated tracks might allow completion within 18 months, while part-time students could take up to three years. Some universities, such as Walden University, offer a “Tempo Learning” model that lets students progress at their own pace. Hence, the more time you dedicate, the faster you can finish.
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What academic and career support services are available to online students earning their master’s in Special Education?
Many institutions prioritize support for their online students, recognizing the unique challenges they might face. Academic support often includes online tutoring, writing centers, and 24/7 library access. Students can tap into virtual career counseling, resume reviews, and webinars on job market trends for career advancement. Many schools offer their students for participation in local school functions to expose themselves to the special education departments within their area. It’s also common for universities to offer tech support for navigating online platforms, ensuring a seamless learning experience.
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Can I work while pursuing an online Master of Special Education degree?
Absolutely! One of the significant advantages of online degrees is their inherent flexibility. Many programs are structured asynchronously, meaning students can access lectures, resources, and assignments anytime and fit their studies around work and personal commitments. For example, a teacher specializing in Special Education could watch lectures in the evenings or on weekends, allowing them to continue their day job. Some programs offer multiple start dates throughout the year, catering to working professionals’ busy schedules.
Other Master’s Degree Options in Education
If you are interested in a master’s degree in education but unsure what specialization to pursue, check out these other degree pages to learn about your options:
Master’s Degrees in Education – Curriculum and Instruction
Master’s Degrees in Education – Early Childhood Education (ECE)
Master’s Degrees in Education – Educational Leadership
Master’s Degrees in Education – Higher Education
Master’s Degrees in Education – Library Sciences
