MA in Special Education
Take your teaching degree to the next level.
As a teacher, you make a difference every day. Educators empower students to overcome challenges, embrace their strengths and reach their full potential. Our online in Master of Arts in Special Education provides an opportunity to increase that impact – building a future where every student can thrive.
Our 12-month, 30-credit program equips certified teachers to serve students across the special education spectrum. In just one year, you’ll graduate with a master’s degree.
At A Glance
-
12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
-
18Average class size
Take your teaching degree to the next level.
As a teacher, you make a difference every day. Educators empower students to overcome challenges, embrace their strengths and reach their full potential. Our online in Master of Arts in Special Education provides an opportunity to increase that impact – building a future where every student can thrive.
Our 12-month, 30-credit program equips certified teachers to serve students across the special education spectrum. In just one year, you’ll graduate with a master’s degree.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
Because the classes are virtual, it allows me to work full time and pursue this degree while working as a teacher. The professors are really helpful and flexible as they know we are all teaching full time!
Because the classes are virtual, it allows me to work full time and pursue this degree while working as a teacher. The professors are really helpful and flexible as they know we are all teaching full time!
Get to Know MA in Special Education
The Alma College M.A. in Special education is for licensed elementary, secondary and special education teachers wanting to study special education. Teachers who wish to add a learning disabilities endorsement to their teaching certificate do just that with this program.
Meet the Faculty
Apply for full funding through Talent Together
Michigan teachers without a Learning Disabilities endorsement can apply for full funding through Talent Together.
Balance Study and Work
The Alma College master’s in special education degree program is being offered in partnership with Talent Together, a consortium of 50 intermediate school districts (ISDs) and regional educational service areas (RESAs) in the state of Michigan. Talent Together will assist you by connecting you with teachers who are already in the field for coaching and mentorship opportunities. It will also provide you with ongoing support for your first three years in the classroom.
Over the course of four sessions, you’ll learn to harness evidence-based practices to provide instruction to students with unique learning needs while supervising support staff. You’ll attend virtual classes each weekend, where you’ll connect with your instructors and cohort. Assignments can then be completed during evenings and weekends — blending seamlessly with your schedule.
Enjoy Wrap-Around Support
As a student, you’ll have bi-monthly touchpoints with your Alma College faculty mentor to monitor your progress and address any barriers. You’ll also be paired with two teachers in the field who will offer additional coaching.
Before the semester begins, you’ll meet with your support team to identify areas for growth and build a personalized plan to reach your goals. Plus, you’ll receive ongoing guidance from your teaching mentors for three years after graduation.
Admissions and Aid
Not sure where to begin? We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Our team is glad to answer your questions and walk you through the application and financial aid process. If you’re not sure if the program is right for you, contact the program director or check out the FAQ’s to help you better understand your motivations and goals.
Application Requirements
Application Requirements
Application Requirements
- Fill out a Talent Together application to apply for funding. Talent Together will provide a list of eligible applicants to Alma College.
- Fill out an Alma College application.
- Send undergraduate transcripts which show a 3.0 GPA in an education-related major to admissions@alma.edu.
- Students under a 3.0 GPA will be considered on an individual basis by the faculty review committee based on academic and professional experience.
- Provide a proof of your teacher certification.
There is no application fee.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline
Application Deadline
Applications will open January 2024.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition & Fees
Tuition & Fees
This program is completely free to Michigan teachers seeking an add-on endorsement in learning disabilities who are selected by Talent Together as candidates.
Study Options
In this program, learn how to plan instruction to promote access for struggling learners – a vital skill that any teacher can benefit from having.
Program Expectations
- All master’s courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
- If the candidate has taken special education courses at the graduate level, an evaluation of credits will occur, and a possible course substitution will be allowed.
What will you learn?
Upon graduation you’ll be able to demonstrate:
- How to lead classrooms of students with unique learning needs.
- How to plan and provide instruction, encompassing evidence-based practices in reading, writing, math, and behavior.
- How to supervise support staff in your classrooms.