MS Special Education

Master of Science Special Education (K-12)

For mild to moderate disabilities

Degree Overview

Our online master’s in special education will prepare you to fill a crucial teaching position. The M.S. in Special Education (K-12) will enhance your teaching talents and enable you to teach students with mild to moderate cross-categorical disabilities. You will become a special education teacher with the instructional design skills to make a difference.

Who the program is for:

• Licensed teachers with bachelor’s degrees who are interested in moving into special education instruction.
• Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.

Note: WGU is the first exclusively online university to receive NCATE accreditation for its degree programs that lead to teacher licensure, a testament to the fact that WGU graduates "have the knowledge and skills to be effective in helping all students learn."

This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Click here to learn more about how your program works.

What You’ll Learn -- Areas of Study:

In this online special education master’s degree, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes six domains of study and completion of a capstone project.

Assessment, Evaluation and Management Practices, Part I
Assessment, Evaluation and Management Practices, Part II
Foundations of Special Education
Instructional Design Domain
Research Fundamentals
Professional Planning, Design, and Development

Total Program: 40 Competency Units (credit equivalents)

More details about your challenging course of study

View the Program Guide (PDF)

Answers to your questions
Click a question, see the answer below.

• Will my state recognize my degree?
• How will I complete my degree?
• Is financial aid available?

Will my state recognize my degree?

Yes. The WGU Teachers College currently serves over 5,000 students throughout the United States. Our master’s degrees are accepted as innovative, leading-edge, credible programs. All teaching programs at WGU are also NCATE-accredited. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor for more details. You can also learn more about WGU’s Student Success and Performance Data.

How will I complete my degree?

As a WGU student you will combine the knowledge you already possess with online courses and independent learning resources to prepare for rigorous assessments that measure your progress in the program. Together with your mentor, you will develop a Degree Plan based upon your personal strengths and weaknesses. You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain the program in more depth.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, WGU offers federal financial aid. Loans are available to most students, regardless of financial need, and grants that don’t requirement repayment are available for those with financial need. You can check into your financial aid eligibility at any time during the admissions process. Learn more from an Enrollment Counselor or visit the Financial Aid section of the website.