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Special Education Programs at Michigan State University

We are excited that you are looking to advance your career with a Michigan State University online graduate special education programs! We’ve provided some information below and we are happy to help get you started at MSU Online. It is important to check your corresponding program's individual site for specific requirements as well. 

Our Programs at a Glance 

  • Available Programs: 3
  • Delivery: 100% online
  • Credits: 30 (10 courses)
  • Timeline: 1.5 to 5 years
  • Tuition: $27,990

Special Education, M.A.

The Master of Arts in Special Education prepares graduates to advance the quality of education for students with disabilities in K-12 schools and is ranked among the best online special education master’s programs in the nation. Students can work towards earning teaching endorsements in Learnings Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders.

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Special Education Leadership: Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, M.A.

This program prepares leaders in the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), a framework of research-based strategies to meet the individual needs of all learners. Graduates will gain expertise in whole school, small group and individual support levels, and create personalized plans of action to better serve K-12 students.

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Applied Behavorial Analysis - Autism Spectrum Disorders, M.A.

The M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis & Autism Spectrum Disorders prepares students to be expert practitioners in supporting individuals with autism. Graduates of this program will excel in a variety of job placements as behavior analysts, including in schools, clinics, residential treatment facilities, and other educational settings.

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Virtual Information Session

Learn more about MSU’s online master’s programs in Special Education at our next virtual information session on Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. ET (register to attend via Zoom). Join Erin Hamilton, Special Education Master's Program Coordinator, to learn more about each program, how to apply and the online student experience at MSU.

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Need more Information?

Receive more details by email from your programs of interest by using the button below.Request Information

How to Apply

Apply online from the Office of Admission's website. Please be sure to check your corresponding program's individual site for specific requirements as well. 

When completing your application, you will need to identify the following information:

  1. MSU College: College of Education
  2. Select Graduate Programs
  3. Major Name

  • Complete and submit the MSU graduate application.
  • Request official transcripts from all previous institutions attended to be sent to your MSU program (electronically or via postal mail).
  • Required application materials will include: 3 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, resume. Some programs may require additional materials.

After you submit your application (along with the application fee, $65 domestic and $75 international), you will receive an email directing you to MSU's Your Account Application Portal

Through the portal you will be able to: 

  • Upload or revise your academic/personal statement
  • Upload résumé
  • Request letters of recommendation (3 professional)
  • Check status of application
  • Submit official, original transcripts.
  • If you completed your undergraduate degree at MSU, you do not need to submit official MSU transcripts.
  • Transcripts from other institutions need to be submitted through an official e-scripting service or be mailed directly to the graduate program.

What happens after I submit my application?

  • Completed application packets are submitted to the program's Admissions Committee for review.
  • Depending on the program, students will receive a letter of the committee's decision about 4 weeks after application deadline. A letter of admissions recommendation by the program is sent by email. 
  • Credentials will be forwarded to the MSU Office of Admissions for final review and approval following program committee review.
  • Accepted students will receive an official letter of admission from the MSU Office of Admissions approximately one month after the program’s notification of recommended acceptance. This letter will contain your MSU Personal Identification Number (PID) and Personal Access Number (PAN). With these, you will set up your MSU NetID and password, allowing you access to enrollment.