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Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education 100% Online
MAT in Special Education Online Degree Overview
The online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Special Education at the University of Louisville is designed to prepare career-changing professionals in Kentucky and beyond, as well as those with a bachelor’s in a field other than education to teach students with disabilities.
UofL’s special education-focused online master's equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to teach students who have disabilities that affect their academic achievement and behavior. By learning how to implement effective instructional methods in the classroom, you can make education accessible for all students.
This program offers:
1) a traditional teaching pathway
2) an alternative certification pathway
Applicants pursuing the alternative certification pathway are granted a temporary, provisional teaching certification upon admission. Specializations are available in Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) and Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD).
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Application Deadlines
We Want You In Our Next Class!
Check out typical application deadlines for the Mater of Arts in Teaching in Special Education online program at UofL:
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
| June 1 | Fall | August |
| September 15 | Spring | January |
| May 1 | Summer | June |
Applicants who wish to enroll in the alternative certification program can start in the Spring or Summer Term. Those who wish to start in the Fall must enroll in the Traditional Option first until they obtain employment.
MAT in Special Education Online Degree Highlights
- Prepare for Kentucky certification in Learning and Behavior Disorders or Moderate to Severe Disabilities
- Start the Alternative Certification program in the Spring or Summer Term (those starting in the Fall must enroll in the Traditional Option first until they obtain employment)
- Develop expertise in assessment, IEP development and inclusive instructional design
- Learn from knowledgeable, experienced practitioners, researchers and teachers
- Earn a 36-credit master’s degree aligned with state licensure standards
- Take advantage of 100% online, flexible learning and personal attention, customized to your goals
Ready to answer the call to teach, support and advocate for students with diverse learning needs?
Let us help you get started. Connect with us today!
Special Education Job Outlook
According to data from LightCast and bls.gov, teaching positions in special education classrooms are expected to grow 28% from 2025 through 2033. The median annual salary for special education teachers was $64,270 in 2024. Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
| Job Growth Projection | Median Annual Salary | Yearly Job Openings |
|---|---|---|
| 28% by 2033 | $64,270 | 58,236 |
Special education teachers do more than adapt lessons. They remove barriers, build trust and unlock potential. The online Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education prepares you to lead inclusive classrooms with skill, confidence and compassion, equipping you to serve students with Learning and Behavior Disorders or Moderate to Severe Disabilities in today’s complex school environments.
Take the next step with confidence - we are here to support your academic journey, from start to finish!