Special Education, MEd
Why Special Education?
As a Special Education teacher, you understand the challenges and rewards of serving students with special needs. If you would like to build on your Saint Mary’s Education Specialist credential, the Master of Education in Special Education offers you the opportunity for further intensive study in field, including carrying out an original research study.
The program incorporates the coursework and field experiences completed for the Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate) credential here at Saint Mary’s, which must be completed in conjunction with the master’s degree.
*For former HNU Students: Contact our admissions team at ksoe@stmarys-ca.edu to learn more about transfer assistance*
12-Month Program Duration
- Sequence of 12 units; designed to help you grow and succeed
On-Campus Environment
- In-person, Monday–Thursday, afternoon/evening classes, with additional learning support occurring online
Small Class Sizes
- Cohort members in the program form a learning community
Program Details
Course of study for the Master of Education in Special Education:
The master program requires the completion of either a research-based thesis or an applied synthesis project. Your thesis or project will be completed under the supervision of a faculty chair and reader. The master’s degree can be completed in as little as three terms, depending on the specific project undertaken by the student.
Special Note: This program currently requires students to have completed an Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate) credential at Saint Mary’s College.
Individuals completing their Education Specialist (Special Education) credential can be automatically admitted to the Master of Education in Special Education Program. To view a list of program application deadlines, click here.
What to expect after acceptance to the Master of Education in Special Education Program
+ Receive an Opt-in Letter
+ Receive your admissions letter
+ Accept your offer and pay your deposit
+ Begin your classes!
Questions? Want to schedule a visit? Please contact .
Master of Education Special Education - Program Progression
Master of Education in Special Education (12 units)
- SPED 630: Current Issues/Emerging Practices for Special Educators (3 units)
- EDUC 772: Research Seminar I (3 units)
- EDUC 782: Research Seminar II (3 units)
- EDUC 792: Thesis or EDUC 797: Synthesis Project (3 units)
School and Department Information
We believe that education can transform lives and make a positive impact on our future and in our communities — particularly those that are underserved. Our curriculum prepares leaders who understand the causes of inequities within society and how these affect our communities, including students, parents and teachers.