Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (LBD, MSD)
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Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (LBD, MSD), Online
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.
Specializations are available in Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) and Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD).
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:
- a traditional teaching pathway
- an alternative certification pathway
Applicants pursuing the alternative certification pathway are granted a temporary, provisional teaching certification upon admission. While you must completed the MAT program to receive your master’s credential and your Initial Teaching Certification, you can obtain a temporary/provisional certification upon admission into the MAT SPED “alt. cert.” program at UofL.
US News & World Report Recognition
The MAT in Special Education online program is offered by the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the University of Louisville (UofL), which has been recognized by US News & World Report as one of the Best in Nation and Best for Veterans Graduate Education online programs, reflecting its commitment to academic quality and student support.
UofL's Online MAT SPED Degree
100% online. No GRE required for admission. Apply today and make a difference in a student’s life!
Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (LBD, MSD)
100% Online
The Big Picture
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.
Designed for career changers and professionals seeking alternative certification, this fully online MAT blends evidence-based pedagogy, applied behavior strategies and disability-focused coursework with practical field experiences. You will graduate ready to design individualized instruction, collaborate with families and multidisciplinary teams and advocate for students whose needs demand both expertise and heart.
This program offers a choice between a traditional teacher education pathway and an alternative certification pathway. Students admitted and enrolled in the alternative certification pathway are granted a temporary, provisional Kentucky teaching certification.
Specializations are available in Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) and Moderate to Severe Disabilities.
MAT in Special Education Program 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
Teaching Pathways Map
Not sure how this degree maps out for your goals, or what online degree is the best option for your career trajectory?
Explore the teaching pathways available through teacher education online programs at UofL!
Answer the call to teach, support and advocate for students with diverse learning needs.
How to Apply to UofL’s Online MAT SPED Degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the Mater of Arts in Teaching in Special Education online program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| 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.
How to Apply for the Online Master of Arts in Teaching 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
Apply Now
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What Are the Admissions Requirements are for the Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education?
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:
- transcripts showing C grade or better in ENGL 102 (or equivalent)
- transcripts showing C grade or better in oral communication course
- two professional statement essays describing the applicant’s background and interest in this master’s program
- three letters of recommendation
- teacher education resume; follow the resume template when developing your resume
- signed code of ethics and technology use agreement
- interview, scheduled upon application review
*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.
Graduate Credit Transfer
See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.
Out-of-State Applicants
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 have further questions about licensure, please contact our academic advisor at betty.hampton@louisville.edu.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor through an information request.
How Much Does It Cost to Earn an Online MATSped 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.
Teachers give their best to their students and UofL is giving their best to teachers!
The College of Education and Human Development offers a 25% Tuition Reduction for Teachers enrolling in approved advanced teacher education programs, online and on campus.
Read more about this incentive in a Q&A with Betty Hampton, Director of Graduate Services for the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at UofL.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees 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 Will You Learn in the Online MAT in Special Education?
The MAT in Special Education curriculum builds deep expertise in disability characteristics, structured literacy, behavioral intervention, assessment and transition planning. Through targeted coursework and supervised field experiences, you will learn to design individualized instruction, analyze student data and implement evidence-based strategies that improve both academic achievement and functional outcomes for learners with learning and behavior disabilities (LBD) or those with moderate to severe disabilities (MSD).
Online Courses
The MAT in Special Education is a 30-36 credit hour program depending on your concentration. Our curriculum is designed to help you develop your knowledge of student characteristics and teaching pedagogy.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
At UofL, the MAT SPED coursework integrates legal foundations and collaborative service delivery to ensure you are prepared for the real demands of today’s special education classrooms.
Ready to support students who need you most? Start working on your application today!
Feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What Can I Do with a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education?
The expertise you’ll develop as a student in this master's program will prepare you to become a special education teacher —regardless of your undergraduate background.
You’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of how to work with exceptional children and learn methods of adapting education to meet their unique needs. Specific expertise gained from the program includes:
- Focused expertise in your chosen specialization—either Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) or Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD)
- Interdisciplinary, service-focused understanding of the basic adult needs of persons with developmental disabilities and how to help these individuals achieve maximum quality of life
- Exploration of the principles and procedures in the field of applied behavior analysis
- How to design, implement and evaluate behavioral programs in an effective and ethically responsive manner
What is the Career Outlook for MAT in Special Education Graduates?
This program leads to MSD or LBD certification only. Individuals completing this program would not be certified to teach general education (Elementary, Middle or Secondary) unless they completed an additional certification program. Graduates of this program will primarily be certified to teach students with moderate and severe disabilities or learning and behavior disorders in Kentucky.
According to data from LightCast.io 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.
Special education teachers remain in high demand nationwide as schools expand inclusive practices and student support services. Graduates may pursue roles in public and private schools, specialized learning centers and community-based educational programs. Potential Job Titles may include:
- Special Education Teacher
- LBD or MSD Teacher
- Resource Room Teacher
- Inclusion Curriculum Specialist
- Behavior Intervention Specialist
- Transition Coordinator
Step into the classroom where your expertise and impact matters most.
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, MAT SPED students are backed 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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Charlie Nattrass | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Betty Hampton | Assistant Director of Graduate Programs | blhamp01@louisville.edu |
502.852.0411
|
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DR. GINEVRA COURTADE | Department Chair, Program Director – MSD | g.courtade@louisville.edu | 502.852.2144 |
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TODD WHITNEY | Assistant Professor, Program Director - LBD | jeremy.whitney@louisville.edu | 502.852.2156 |
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.
Does this program lead to teacher certification?
Yes. The MAT aligns with Kentucky certification requirements in LBD or MSD. Candidates pursuing alternative certification receive a provisional certification upon admission, pending state requirements.
Can I start teaching right away with this degree?
Yes, if you pursue the alternative certification pathway within the MAT, you would be able to immediately seek full-time employment as a special education educator in the state of Kentucky. While you must complete the MAT program to receive your master’s degree and your initial teaching certification, once admitted as an alternative certification student, you will be granted a temporary, provisional certification allowing you to get started on your new career right away!
Can I teach elementary school with this degree?
No, this program leads to MSD or LBD certification only. Individuals completing this program would not be certified to teach general education (Elementary, Middle or Secondary) unless they completed an additional certification program. Graduates of this program will primarily be certified to teach students with moderate and severe disabilities or learning and behavior disorders in Kentucky. Out-of-state certified teachers should be advised that we cannot guarantee that our program will meet licensure, salary, advancement or other requirements in their state, and are encouraged to review our Application tab for more information.
Where can I find state licensure information?
You can view our Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures resource.
Which term should I apply for?
Applicants who wish to enroll in the Alternative Certification program can start in the Spring or Summer Term, and must obtain full-time employment teaching students in a special needs classroom before the start of the Fall Semester. Those who wish to start the program in the Fall semesters will enroll in the Traditional option until they obtain employment.
If you have questions, contact our academic advisor, Betty Hampton at betty.hampton@louisville.edu.
Can I transfer graduate courses completed at another institution to UofL’s online master’s in industrial and systems engineering program?
Yes. Students may request to transfer up to six (6) credit hours from another accredited graduate program.
Does the ISE department offer financial aid to incoming online MSISE students?
Scholarships opportunities may exist for exceptional applicants contingent upon availability of funding. These limited scholarships, designed to partially offset the tuition, are determined on a rolling basis at the time of admission. Official offer letters to individual students will contain details.
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. 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!
