The Special Education Masters Program features courses for K-12 educators to become experts in effective education for students with disabilities. The fully online M.A. program is ranked among the best in the nation and offers study emphasis in Learning Disabilities (LD) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Students will have the opportunity to apply teaching methods and practices informed by research. In addition, they will have opportunities to apply those methods in authentic contexts to foster deep understanding and critical reflection. Students can earn teaching endorsements in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Learning Disabilities.
#3 in Online Master's in Special Education Programs in 2026 according to U.S. News & World Report.
Throughout the M.A. in Special Education, students will engage in clinical projects and practicums with opportunities to reflect on teaching practice with the support, feedback, and collaboration of the teaching faculty. Courses are taught by special education program faculty members who have extensive experience as researchers, teacher educators, and special education classroom teachers.
The Master of Arts degree in Special Education prepares practicing teachers to emphasize and enhance their expertise in and out of the classroom. Graduates of the Special Education M.A. program will attain the abilities to develop, implement, and interpret data and to communicate this information in significant ways to colleagues, families, students, and stakeholders. More than 85% of our graduates receive a pay increase for obtaining their M.A. degree.
Completion of a final evaluation.
The university reserves the right to make changes in the types, structures, rates for fees, and tuition. Every effort will be made to give as much advance notice as possible. In addition to tuition and fees, there are other expenses associated with your Cost of Attendance. A breakdown of a graduate student budget can be found on the "Estimate Your Cost of Attendance" page.
You can be ensured a return on your investment at Michigan State University.
As one of the top research universities in the world, Michigan State University has advanced the common good with uncommon will since 1855.
MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
MSU has been offering online degree programs since 1998. Our maturity is evident in the high quality of the learning experience enjoyed by our online students.
MSU provides programs and initiatives that support and enhance diversity. We will expand our campus and external partnerships to put in place inclusive recruitment and retention practices. We nurture and promote individuals’ varied experiences and perspectives, ensuring structures and processes make possible full participation by all members of our community.
MSU’s nationally recognized online programs foster student growth and well-being throughout their academic career. We will expand inclusive mentoring practices and accelerate improvement across units to implement evidence-based practices to ensure our students complete successfully.
Continuing education can be one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experiences you undertake in your life. We hope you consider becoming a Spartan, to learn online and reach your career goals. With highly ranked online programs and exceptional professors, we educate students who advance the common good with uncommon will.