Online Master of Education in Special Education
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Master of Education in Special Education (MEdSPED), Online
The M.Ed. in Special Education at UofL is designed for licensed teachers and other professionals interested in developing expertise in areas related specifically to Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) or Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) within special education.
The special education master's program provides a strong foundation in general education content and special education theory and methods. With coursework involving extensive classroom experience, you will develop the skills, competencies and confidence for successful teaching in this important area, including strategies for inclusion, behavior management, social skill instruction and modifying instruction within the general curriculum.
US News & World Report Recognition
The online Master of Education in Special Education is offered by the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the University of Louisville.
For over a decade, CEHD graduate education programs have been recognized as Best in the Nation and Best for Veterans by US News & World Report.
UofL's Online MEd in Special Education
100% Online, No GRE Required for Admission – Get started today and prepare to make a significant impact on children's future!
Master of Education in Special Education
100% Online
The Big Picture
The MEd in Special Education is designed only for licensed teachers looking to become certified to teach Special Education in the state of Kentucky, though potential exceptions are handled on a case-by-case basis
Teachers licensed outside of the state of Kentucky and interested in applying for this degree and concentration, must speak to our academic advisor (betty.hampton@louisville.edu) to ensure their qualification and eligibility prior to applying.
Online MEd in Special Education Degree Highlights
- Prepare to work with students who have intellectual disabilities that impede academic achievement and adaptive behavior skills (e.g., communication, social behavior and daily living activities)
- Specialize in Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) or Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) with a degree concentration
- Earn the credentials needed to become certified to teach special education
- Complete your degree in as little as 2 years (with typical course load)
- Certified teachers with a bachelor’s degree may use this MEdSPED program to add a certification in LBD or MSD and complete the Rank II requirement for a master’s degree.
- Teachers who have already earned a master’s degree may use the program to add the LBD or MSD certification and complete the Rank I “master’s + 30” requirement.
Online MEd in Special Education Course Delivery
Online courses are accessed via webcam in interactive, synchronous sessions (with class time from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET on specific weekdays). This provides a similar classroom experience to an in-person interaction, while accommodating for location constraints.
Online MEd in Special Education Field Experience and Practicum
This program requires field experience and completion of practicum, as well as a Kentucky teaching licensure, which can lead to Rank II certification. Fieldwork requirements must be completed in the state of Kentucky. Students will gain experience in a variety of settings, including teaching in their own classroom (as approved on an individual basis).
Teaching Career Pathways Mapping
Not sure whether the MEdSPED online degree is the best option for your career trajectory?
Teaching Career Pathways [PDF]
Explore the various Teaching Pathways available through online degree programs at UofL!
Step forward as an advocate for every learner and advance your impact in special education.
How to Apply to UofL’s Online MEd in Special Education Degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the MEd in Special Education program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply for the Online Master of Education in Special Education
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email:gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
What Admissions Requirements are for the Online Master of Education in Special Education Admissions Requirements and Materials
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Required application packet materials include:
- valid Kentucky Teaching Certificate or statement of eligibility for candidates outside Kentucky
- professional writing requirement
- Please complete the following and upload with your application. Your response should be double-spaced (Times New Roman 12 point font) and no more than three pages. Please review the Professional Dispositions Rubric [PDF] and consider how you would evaluate your areas of strength as well as those for potential growth in each of the categories. In your essay, please identify three categories that you would rate yourself as "target" or "exemplary" and explain why. Then, identify one area for professional growth and explain how you envision this program supporting your growth in this area.
- two letters of recommendation
- signed code of ethics and technology use agreement
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Transfer Credit for Online MEd in Special Education Students
If you have received graduate credit from another institution, you may transfer up to 6 credits that directly replace approved courses in the program. Approval must be granted by the program director.
Out-of-State Online MEd in Special Education Students
- Out-of-state applicants should check state authorizations and licensing disclosures for requirements in your state. Please be advised that the University of Louisville cannot guarantee that our program will meet licensure, salary, advancement or other requirements in their state.
- The University of Louisville makes every effort to ensure information about educational requirements for programs is current; however, licensure requirements are always subject to change. Students should always check with their state licensure board to confirm licensure requirements.
If you live outside of the United States, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor through an information request.
How Much It Costs to Earn an Online MEd in Special Education Degree at UofL
Academic Year Tuition
$638 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many schools, districts or employers have programs available to assist teachers financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What You Learn in the Online Master of Education in Special Education
The Special Education graduate curriculum integrates advanced study in assessment, applied behavior analysis, intervention design and inclusive instructional strategies. Across both Learning and Behavior Disorders and Moderate to Severe Disabilities concentrations, coursework emphasizes evidence-based practices, structured literacy, assistive technology, functional behavior assessment and academic response to intervention.
Through research, practicum and applied field experiences, you will strengthen your ability to design individualized education programs, interpret student data and implement targeted supports that improve outcomes for diverse learners in P–12 settings.
Online Courses
The MEd in Special Education is a 36 credit hour program. The curriculum you follow is determined by your concentration choice.
To see all available online courses and degree completion requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
Note: Field experience and practicum requirements must be completed in Kentucky and aligned with state licensure guidelines.
Start working on your application early and contact us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What Can I Do with a Master of Education in Special Education?
A Master of Education in Special Education can position you as an instructional leader and a student advocate. At UofL, you graduate prepared to design inclusive learning environments, implement data-informed interventions and support students with diverse cognitive, behavioral and developmental needs. Whether advancing within your current school system or pursuing new opportunities, this degree strengthens your credentials and broadens your professional impact.
Students graduating from this program are qualified to gain licensure as a special education teacher. You’ll be prepared to better understand the needs of students, from elementary classroom to high school.
- Elementary teachers work primarily with beginning or remedial skills in academic content (English language arts, math, science and social studies), as well as adaptive behaviors.
- Middle Grade and Secondary teachers address these skills in addition to preparing students to transition to vocations or to post-secondary education.
Demand for special education teachers continues as schools expand instruction models and intervention services. Growth is driven by increased identification of learning differences, personalized behavioral support and the need for qualified educators prepared to implement evidence-based instruction across diverse student populations.
According to job outlook data, teaching positions in special education classrooms is expected to grow 8% from 2025 through 2033. The median annual salary for special education teachers was $64,270 in 2024. (lightcast.io, bls.gov)
Graduates of the online MEd in Special Education are prepared to:
- Design individualized instruction aligned with learning standards and goals
- Support students with mild to moderate disabilities
- Implement evidence-based academic and behavioral interventions
- Conduct functional behavior assessments and interpret student data
- Collaborate with families, general educators and multidisciplinary teams
- Support inclusive classroom models across elementary, middle and secondary levels
- Advocate for equitable access to curriculum and services
Step forward as an advocate for every learner while advancing your career and impact in special education.
What Your Support Network Looks Like
Success in a technical graduate program requires more than strong coursework – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, our students are guided by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Cameron Murrey-Hicks | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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GINEVRA COURTADE | Special Education Department Chair | g.courtade@louisville.edu |
502.852.2144
|
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BETTY HAMPTON | Director | blhamp01@louisville.edu | 502.852.0411 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What Else Should You Know
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission, internship process and options or how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
Which term should I apply for?
You can apply for whatever upcoming term best meets your needs! Whether you prefer to start your academic journey in August, January or even during the summer months, you have the opportunity to select the term that best suits your goals and schedule. You can view application deadlines and requirements on our Application tab.
Can I start teaching with this degree?
The MEd in Special Education, with concentrations in LBD and MSD, is designed for the Kentucky certified teacher to add to their certification. Therefore, as qualified applicants, students should already have the certifications required for teaching.
Who is this program for?
The MEd in Special Education, with concentrations in LBD and MSD, is designed for the Kentucky certified teacher to add to their certification. Bachelor’s-level certified teachers may use the program to add certification in LBD or MSD and complete the required Rank II/master’s degree. Teachers who have already earned a master’s degree may use the program to add certification and complete the Rank I.
Where can I find state licensure information?
You can find state licensure information on our Professional Licensure page for online programs.
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes, there is federal financial aid available for this program for all who qualify. Your employer might also offer financial assistance for your degree completion. You can learn more by visiting our Financial Aid tab on the Tuition page.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
