• Overview
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • What You’ll Learn
  • Benefits

Overview

With a nationwide shortage of passionate, qualified special education professionals, some of the most vulnerable students are left without the support they require and deserve. An M.S. in Special Education can set you on the path to helping those who need you most.

By 2022, the number of students receiving services under IDEA totals 7.3 million (15% of total public school students)*. Nationally, every state is struggling with a teacher shortage, a gap that ultimately leaves diverse learners without the support they need and deserve.

Eastern’s master’s in special education features a holistic curriculum designed for professionals with an interest in working with students with disabilities or those who already do and who want to hone their skills and knowledge.

  • Instructional Methods: From designing and implementing assessments to best practices for better instruction of K-12 students with special needs, you’ll learn the theory and practical application for instructing exceptional students.
  • Collaboration: Learn how to effectively work with families, other special education personnel, and navigate effective interagency collaborations for the benefit of students.
  • Advocacy: Gain an in-depth understanding of trends, issues, and policies so you can become an advocate for inclusive education.

*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, Institute of Education Sciences, Students With Disabilities, on the internet at https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cgg (visited July 12, 2023).

Who Should Register

The M.S. in Special Education is an advanced degree for experienced certified teachers, teacher candidates who have completed a teaching certification program, or other professionals with an interest in working with exceptional students.

Why Choose Eastern?

  • Eastern Connecticut State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
  • Offers students a strong liberal arts foundation grounded in a variety of applied learning opportunities.
  • Ranked among the top 25 public institutions in the North by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Awarded 'Green Campus' status by the Princeton Review 13 years in a row.
Estimated
Cost: $750 per credit hour
Additional tuition reductions and flexible payment options may be available!
Next Start Date: July 7, 2025

Program Details:

  • icon Master
  • icon Online
  • icon Instructor Led
  • icon 10 courses
  • icon 30 Credit Hours
  • icon 1-2 years
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Related Career Pathways
  • Education & Training