special education phd programs illinois

Special Education Graduate Programs in Illinois

1-25 of 28 results

School of Education and Social Policy - Northwestern University

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

Graduate School

Northwestern University ,

Graduate School ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

College of Education - University of Illinois

Champaign, IL •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign •

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ,

CHAMPAIGN, IL ,

Loyola University Chicago School of Education

Chicago, IL •

Loyola University Chicago •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Graduate Student: Loyola was such a great place to earn my M.Ed Higher Education degree. The faculty were so dedicated to our development and success. The two campuses were my homes away from home, and the staff were always a pleasure to work with. I miss my Loyola days for sure!!! ... Read 1 review

Loyola University Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Loyola was such a great place to earn my M.Ed Higher Education degree. The faculty were so dedicated to our development and success. The two campuses were my homes away from home, and the staff... .

Read 1 reviews.

American University

Graduate School •

WASHINGTON, DC

• • Rating 4.55 out of 5   149

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

• • Rating 4.62 out of 5   65

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

SHIPPENSBURG, PA

• • Rating 4.86 out of 5   14

DePaul University College of Education

DePaul University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Doctoral Student: The academics are robust, yet engaging. Students are prepared to lead in their field. The courses are paced perfectly to fit everyone's schedule. Students that attend DePaul will be prepared to serve in their area of choice. ... Read 2 reviews

DePaul University ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The academics are robust, yet engaging. Students are prepared to lead in their field. The courses are paced perfectly to fit everyone's schedule. Students that attend DePaul will be prepared to... .

Read 2 reviews.

College of Education and Health Sciences - Bradley University

Peoria, IL •

Bradley University •

• • Rating 3.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Doctoral Student: Need more from the Doctors/Professors that teach us. They have made it an almost self learned online program. They don’t directly answer our questions. ... Read 2 reviews

Bradley University ,

PEORIA, IL ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Need more from the Doctors/Professors that teach us. They have made it an almost self learned online program. They don’t directly answer our questions. .

College of Education - University of Illinois at Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago •

Current Master's student: This has been such a fruitful program, the only thing I'd recommend is having more mentorship opportunities for graduate students. ... Read 1 review

University of Illinois Chicago ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says This has been such a fruitful program, the only thing I'd recommend is having more mentorship opportunities for graduate students. .

• Find college scholarships

College of Education - Illinois State University

Normal, IL •

Illinois State University •

Master's Student: ISU's College of Education offers exceptional programs for its students. The campus provides a small-town atmosphere and offers various programs and opportunities for students. Professors often go above and beyond for students to ensure they are successful both in the classroom and in the community. I can't recommend this university and their programs enough! ... Read 2 reviews

Illinois State University ,

NORMAL, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says ISU's College of Education offers exceptional programs for its students. The campus provides a small-town atmosphere and offers various programs and opportunities for students. Professors often go... .

University of St. Francis - Illinois College of Education

Joliet, IL •

University of St. Francis - Illinois •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: There is a lot of good guidance in the program and they make sure that you get the most out of your experience in the program. ... Read 1 review

University of St. Francis - Illinois ,

JOLIET, IL ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says There is a lot of good guidance in the program and they make sure that you get the most out of your experience in the program. .

College of Education - Eastern Illinois University

Charleston, IL •

Eastern Illinois University •

Master's Student: The coursework thus far has definitely been useful! The professors strongly encourage you to create your assignments and coursework based on your teaching assignment as much as possible, so it has a real-world connection and is something that you could use in your classroom! They also encourage critical thinking and application, resulting in deeper learning as well as honing your craft! ... Read 2 reviews

Eastern Illinois University ,

CHARLESTON, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The coursework thus far has definitely been useful! The professors strongly encourage you to create your assignments and coursework based on your teaching assignment as much as possible, so it has a... .

College of Education and Social Sciences - Lewis University

Romeoville, IL •

Lewis University •

Lewis University ,

ROMEOVILLE, IL ,

Dominican University School of Education

River Forest, IL •

Dominican University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The classes were small so you had to speak with other students who are in the same field of study. Even though the classes were small, the classes were informative and helped me in my graduate program. The professors always gave feedback in areas of improvement and wanted the best for their students. ... Read 2 reviews

Dominican University ,

RIVER FOREST, IL ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The classes were small so you had to speak with other students who are in the same field of study. Even though the classes were small, the classes were informative and helped me in my graduate... .

Western Illinois University College of Education and Human Services

Macomb, IL •

Western Illinois University •

Western Illinois University ,

MACOMB, IL ,

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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education, Health and Human Behavior

Edwardsville, IL •

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   2 reviews

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville ,

EDWARDSVILLE, IL ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

College of Education - Roosevelt University

Roosevelt University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: It is the only program of its kind that results in earning 3 teaching endorsements (ESL, Bilingual, Teacher Leadership) within the MA of Dual Language Teacher Leadership. It also is an accelerated program lasting only 1 full year summer to summer. ... Read 3 reviews

Roosevelt University ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says It is the only program of its kind that results in earning 3 teaching endorsements (ESL, Bilingual, Teacher Leadership) within the MA of Dual Language Teacher Leadership. It also is an accelerated... .

Read 3 reviews.

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL •

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   23 reviews

Alum: Throughout the program, I found it to be very exceptional. As a result of this course, I've learned many important aspects about technology and its avenues. The teachers are very helpful, kind and resourceful. Full of intellectual information and outstanding insight into the subjects being discussed. On the other hand the only downside to the program was how short the weeks were in trying to learn and gather so much information at a time. ... Read 23 reviews

Blue checkmark.

ELMHURST, IL ,

23 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Throughout the program, I found it to be very exceptional. As a result of this course, I've learned many important aspects about technology and its avenues. The teachers are very helpful, kind and... On the other hand the only downside to the program was how short the weeks were in trying to learn and gather so much information at a time. .

Read 23 reviews.

National College of Education

National Louis University •

Current Master's student: The Master's in Teaching Special Education program was quick, meaningful, and impactful to my journey to become a Special Education Teacher. I learned so much from my professors, classmates, and the program maximized my potential to be a valuable educator to my students. I cannot wait to put forth the skills, knowledge, and tools I learned throughout my program at NLU! ... Read 1 review

National Louis University ,

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The Master's in Teaching Special Education program was quick, meaningful, and impactful to my journey to become a Special Education Teacher. I learned so much from my professors, classmates, and the... .

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL •

Other: The program that I am in help adults who want to go back to school while working. They have evening courses, and they are very convenient for adults that want to further their education. ... Read 1 review

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL ,

Featured Review: Other says The program that I am in help adults who want to go back to school while working. They have evening courses, and they are very convenient for adults that want to further their education. .

College of Education and Human Services - Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Carbondale, IL •

Southern Illinois University Carbondale •

Southern Illinois University Carbondale ,

CARBONDALE, IL ,

Greenville University School of Education

Greenville, IL •

Greenville University •

Greenville University ,

GREENVILLE, IL ,

Northern Illinois University College of Education

Dekalb, IL •

Northern Illinois University •

Graduate Student: I appreciated the fact that throughout my master's program, the majority of my professors had experience as top level educational administration, particularly both principals and superintendents. This provided a deeper understanding of the expectations of principals from each perspective. In addition, progressing through the program with a cohort allowed all of us to build solid relationships to assist us in managing the expectations of full time work in addition to graduate level courses and internship training. I am proud to say that I am a graduate of Northern Illinois' Educational Administration program. ... Read 1 review

Northern Illinois University ,

DEKALB, IL ,

Featured Review: Graduate Student says I appreciated the fact that throughout my master's program, the majority of my professors had experience as top level educational administration, particularly both principals and superintendents. ... .

College of Education and Health Services - Benedictine University

Lisle, IL •

Benedictine University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The first year, all students are in the same theory classes. The second year, the pathways are split. The Nurse Educator pathway includes classes on adv patho, pharm, and assessment, as well as teaching, classroom activities, engagement, etc. ... Read 4 reviews

Benedictine University ,

LISLE, IL ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The first year, all students are in the same theory classes. The second year, the pathways are split. The Nurse Educator pathway includes classes on adv patho, pharm, and assessment, as well as... .

Read 4 reviews.

Rockford University

Rockford, IL •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: Rockford University has several classes you can choose from for electives and your concentration. The degree requires 8 core classes and three electives assuming you are up to date on your prerequisites. They have a mix of hybrid and strictly online classes. In session classes are typically 1 day a week from 6am-9pm There is a food shelf available, clean bathrooms, and classrooms are professionally set up for students to succeed. ... Read 4 reviews

ROCKFORD, IL ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Rockford University has several classes you can choose from for electives and your concentration. The degree requires 8 core classes and three electives assuming you are up to date on your... .

Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education

Northeastern Illinois University •

Northeastern Illinois University ,

College of Education - Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago •

• • Rating 4.25 out of 5   8 reviews

Doctoral Student: I am a former student of Concordia University - Portland since 2014, which ceased operations. I was accepted into Concordia University Chicago in 2021 and I am still trying to complete my dissertation. The transition to another school has been difficult and it has taken several dissertation committees and chairpersons, along with many changes regarding the methodology and Theoretical/Conceptual Framework of my study. ... Read 8 reviews

Concordia University Chicago ,

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I am a former student of Concordia University - Portland since 2014, which ceased operations. I was accepted into Concordia University Chicago in 2021 and I am still trying to complete my... .

Read 8 reviews.

College of Liberal Arts and Education - Saint Xavier University

Saint Xavier University •

Saint Xavier University ,

Chicago - Kent College of Law

Illinois Institute of Technology •

CHICAGO, IL

• • Rating 4.86 out of 5   7

University of Illinois Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, IL

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   31

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota School of Education

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota •

Showing results 1 through 25 of 28

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College of Education

Med special education.

The MEd in Special Education prepares graduates to work with people with disabilities, diverse in strengths, ages (5-21), and teaching and learning in educational and community settings, and schools. The need for special education teachers is urgent, especially in urban areas like Chicago. Research indicates that a shortage of special education teachers disproportionately affects minority students, particularly in urban school districts that have large majorities of African American and Latina/o/x students. Special educators work in a range of instructional settings in school and in communities.

All students earn a master's and can add on initial Illinois licensure and credentials. The program welcomes students entirely new to teaching, current teachers new to special education, current special education teachers and students seeking new knowledge about special education.

About UIC's MEd Special Education program:

• Several tuition funding sources & scholarship opportunities
• No GRE and no IL TAP test required
• Evening courses can be taken full- or part-time, with face-to-face, blended and online formats

Degree Requirements Heading link Copy link

• Book icon Summary of Program Curriculum
• Book icon 2023-2024 UIC Graduate Catalog

2023 MEd Special Education Graduate Gerald N. Daye Jr. Heading link Copy link

Gerald N. Daye graduated with an MEd in Special Education.

Scholarships and Financial Support Heading link Copy link

Financial assistance is available through national, state, and UIC funds:

Assistive Technology Leaders in Special Education II (ATLiS2) scholarship program

Assistive Technology Leaders in Special Education II  (ATLiS2) is a special education scholarship program that will prepare currently licensed educators to earn an Illinois learning behavior specialist (LBS1) endorsement and an advanced learning behavior specialist (LBS2) endorsement in assistive technology. ATLiS2 scholars will participate in interdisciplinary coursework and community building activities to establish a community of assistive technology specialists.

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant

The TEACH Grant provides federal student aid to teacher candidates who seek to become teachers in low-income schools.

As a condition for receiving a TEACH Grant, you must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve in which you agree to (among other requirements) teach: (1) in a high-need field; (2) at an elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency that serves students from low-income families; and (3) for at least four complete academic years within eight years after completing (or ceasing enrollment in) the course of study for which you received the grant.

• Apply to the TEACH grant

Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver Program

Students in the MEd Special Education program pursuing licensure to teach special education (including current teachers with an Illinois Professional Education License who are not currently qualified to teach special education) may be eligible for the Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver (SETTW) Program.   This program exempts students from paying tuition and mandatory fees for up to four calendar years.  By receiving the tuition waiver, you must teach in Illinois in the field of special education. If this teaching commitment is not fulfilled, the amount of benefits received converts to a loan, and you must repay the entire amount plus interest.

• Learn more and apply to SETTW

UIC Graduate College Tuition Waiver

Students in any graduate program at the College of Education are eligible for a UIC Graduate College tuition waiver.   Available on a semester-by-semester basis, a limited number are available, but all students are encouraged to apply.

• Graduate College Tuition Waiver Application

CHIME (Collaborative teaching for young and diverse children with high-intensity needs and multiple disabilities in blended environments) is a federally funded special education scholarship program that will prepare current teachers with an Illinois educators license to earn a master’s degree, an IL Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) endorsement, and the Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) approval. CHIME will prepare educators to teach young children with disabilities, especially those between the ages of 3 and 5, in inclusive environments with a commitment educational justice, accessibility, and equity.

CHIME will provide students with a scholarship that consists of tuition, fees and a book stipend. The program will last two-years across five semesters with students taking two to three classes per semester. Each student must complete a service obligation that requires one year of teaching in an approved position for each semester of funding.

Eligibility

• Current teachers with a professional educator’s license (PEL) without LBS1 endorsement or ECSE approval
• Interest in learning about special education, evidence-based interventions, and inclusion for students aged 3-21.
• US Citizen or Permanent US Resident

Program Content

Between January 2025 and July 2026, CHIME scholars will complete 37 credits in the following areas:

• 18 credits to earn the LBS1 endorsement
• 14 credits to earn the ECSE approval
• 5 credits for CHIME cohort seminar

Program Benefits

• Full tuition, fees, and a book stipend
• Credentials to teach young children with disabilities
• Community-building activities
• UIC Early Childhood Special Education Cooperative participation
• Hybrid and online courses held in the evening, includes two summer semesters.

Application Process

Apply through the Graduate College deadline is Oct 1st, 2024.

Information sessions

We will host virtual information sessions over the coming months to review the project and answer questions. Please register for an information session at the link below. We will send login information to those who register prior to the event.

April 23rd 2024 @ 5:00pm

May 15th 2024 @ 5:00pm

June 7th 2024 @12:00pm

Aug 22nd 2024 @ 5:00pm

Click Here to Register for an Information Session

Program Support

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs

University of Illinois, College of Education, Department of Special Education

For Further Information Contact the Program Coordinator

Stephanie Fernandez, MEd

CHIME Program Coordinator

Special Education

[email protected]

Information Session Dates Heading link Copy link

Interested in pursuing a special education license, endorsement, or in becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst? Attend an upcoming information session to learn more about our programs. (Note: there are no info sessions during the summer.) All information sessions start at 5:00pm on the following dates. Please complete the interest form to receive the login information prior to the session.

Join an upcoming Info Session! Heading link Copy link

Add credentials to your illinois teaching license (pel) heading link copy link.

Special Ed master’s students have the option to pursue several different credentials from the State of Illinois in addition to licensure:

• Early Childhood Special Education Approval
• Bilingual and/or English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsements
• Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) for ages 5-21
• Assistive technology
• Behavior intervention
• Curriculum adaptation (inclusion)
• Multiple disabilities

Endorsement only: Licensed teachers have the option to earn these endorsements without completing a master’s degree program through UIC Extended Campus (LBS1 starting Fall 2020).

Faculty Heading link Copy link

Frequently asked questions heading link copy link.

Commonly asked questions about the MEd Special Education program.

What is the difference between groups 1, 2, 3 or 4? Which one should I apply for?

Requirements for each group depend on your current teaching credentials and career goals. See the description for each:

Group 1  is for students without an education background, entirely new to the teaching profession, who seek both teacher licensure (PEL) and the Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement.

Group 2  is for students who are currently licensed teachers (have a PEL) but are new to special education and seek the Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement.

Group 3  is for students who are currently licensed special education teachers who hold a Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement and seek Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist 2 (LBS2) endorsement(s).

Group 4  is for students seeking new knowledge about special education, but who are not interested in teacher licensure or Illinois endorsements

What will I earn that will enable me to teach in Illinois?

Students can earn the Professional Educators License (PEL) and endorsements. If you have the PEL (if you are already a licensed teacher in Illinois), you will earn additional endorsement(s).

The endorsement for teaching special education is the Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1).  You will be endorsed to teach students ages 5 – 21 in all academic content areas. When gaining employment, you can choose grade level(s), ability/disability populations, and the kinds of collaborative teaching and inclusionary work you want.

We encourage you to earn additional endorsements also, especially for teaching students for whom English is a second language (ESL) and/or the Early Childhood/Special Education approval.

How many credits/courses do I have to take? Is student teaching part of the program?

The MEd requires 33 credits (11 courses). If you do not have a PEL and you want to earn one (Group 1), you will complete 13 additional credits (pre-student teaching internship and student teaching) required to earn your initial PEL.

When do classes meet? Are there online class options?

During fall and spring semesters, courses meet once a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. In summer, courses meet generally twice a week since the semester is abbreviated/shorter time. Over half the UIC Special Ed courses are “blended” or hybrid; that is, they meet over 1/3 of the time in non face-face sessions (e.g., online work).

Are there scholarships and financial aid available?

Yes. Special education teachers are in high demand and so there are a wide variety of public and private scholarships available. Check out our  Financial Aid & Scholarships page  for specific info for UIC special ed master’s students.

Additional information for sources of funding is available via the  UIC Graduate College website .

What is the employment outlook for special education?

Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 37,600 openings for special education teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. (Source: US Department of Labor Statistics.)

What are some career options for a Special Ed master's degree besides classroom teaching?

In addition to classroom teaching, MEd Special Education graduates go on to pursue school leadership positions, work in government agencies, and more.

What exams are required?

As of July 2019, Illinois no longer has a requirement to show basic skills knowledge; it is assumed in passage into college and graduation. In special education, two state exams are required that you will take in the later part of your program.  We prepare you for those two (LBS1 and Special Education General Curriculum).

For admission into the MEd program, the GRE is not required.

What background knowledge or experience do I need?

You do not need a previous degree in education or even a related field; we recognize that people can decide at any time to enter education and we welcome you. We do require that you have a bachelor’s degree. We do encourage applicants to gain experiences with youth and/or adults with disabilities in part to observe and wonder, and in part to help ensure interest and fulfillment.

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WIU Home > COEHS > School of Education > Grad > Mssped

Master of Science in Education (M.S. Ed.) in Special Education

Location: Online

The Special Education Master's Degree is a fully online program that provides opportunities for currently licensed:

• Teachers with general education certification seeking K-21 special education endorsement
• Teachers with special education certification seeking to advance their K-21 skills and knowledge

This program, aligned to Illinois and Iowa certification requirements, prepares graduates to impact their students' learning, their classrooms, and their schools. International students do not qualify to admission into this program. 

Graduates assume positions as classroom, consultant, or inclusion teachers of children and adolescents with varying disabilities in schools, clinics, and residential facilities.

Follow this link if you are interested only in the LBS1 endorsement as a non-degree seeking student .

If you are seeking initial teaching licensure, follow this link.

Degree Requirements

Both tracks within the program require 37 credit hours, 28 of which are the following core courses:

• SPED 515 Diagnostic Assessment for Individuals with Exceptionalities SPED 518 Self-Determination and Independence SPED 571 Differentiated Behavior Intervention SPED 580 Graduate Field Work in Special Education SPED 581 Special Education Law and Supervision SPED 613 Leadership in Collaboration SPED 622 Action Research in Education SPED 624 Action Research Project EDS 500 Methods of Research

In addition to the core courses listed above, elementary or secondary teachers seeking education or endorsement in special education (Track 1) must take:

• SPED 551 Characteristics of Learners with Mild/Moderate Disabilities

And any two of the following options:

• SPED 523 Instructional Methods: Individuals with Moderate/Severe Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• SPED 526 Instructional Methods: Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• SPED 536 Instructional Methods: Individuals with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders
• SPED 546 Instructional Methods: Individuals with Learning Disabilities
• SPED 552 Instructional Methods for K–6 Learners with Disabilities
• SPED 553 Instructional Methods for Secondary Learners with Disabilities
• SPED 556 Methods in Autism and Language Disorders

In addition to the core courses listed above, special education teachers seeking advanced education or additional endorsements in special education (Track 2)  must take:

• one graduate level elective
• SPED 523 Instructional Methods: Individuals with Moderate/Severe Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities 

Admission Requirements

• Admission to the   School of Graduate Studies
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or 3.0 in the last two years
• Transcripts from your highest degree granting institution 
• A valid U.S. teaching certificate
• A letter of intent that presents your reasons for seeking a Master's Degree in Special Education and your expectations for how this degree will contribute to your professional career

To seek admission, you must formally apply to the School of Graduate Studies declaring Special Education as your area of study. You must meet the general admission requirements of the School of Graduate Studies and have a minimum cumulative GPA for all undergraduate work of 2.75. You will need to submit your official transcripts and letter of intent, which can be uploaded during the online application process, emailed to  [email protected] , or mailed to the School of Graduate Studies, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455-1390.

Students will need to complete the following course requirements if they were not included in their undergraduate program that led to the teaching license:

A survey course in exceptional individuals A course in the teaching of reading A course in the teaching of mathematics A course in the use of computer technology in the classroom

Quick Facts

• All classes are online
• Designed to meet individual educational needs and goals
• Addresses Illinois and Iowa special education endorsement requirements
• Requires 37 credits
• Most students take two courses per semester (6-7 credits)  
• Is focused on evidence-based education and data-driven instruction
• Provides advising and instruction by professors who will get to know and support you
• Fosters a community of learners among teachers

Faculty Expertise

Special Education faculty hold advanced degrees from notable universities across the United States. They are all experienced special education classroom teachers as well. They engage in a wide variety of scholarly activities that enhance their teaching: collaboration with local education agencies; research; professional presentations; publishing in special education and general education journals, along with authorship of books and book chapters; and grant writing/project management. Several have won teaching, technology, and/or research awards.

Voices of Alumni

"I graduated from Western Illinois University in 2006 with my undergraduate degree in special education. When it came time to return to school for my graduate degree in special education, there was never a thought in my mind to go anywhere other than Western Illinois University again. It feels like home here. Not only is the coursework challenging and interesting but I believe the instructors are amazing. The instructors at Western bring their vast expertise levels into the classroom and provide programming to us that is relevant and current with teaching practices. I believe that I am receiving an exceptional education by exceptional instructors at Western Illinois University." – Kimberly Evans

"Choosing the WIU-QC Special Education Graduate Program is a logical choice for any teacher wishing to expand their knowledge base and marketability in what is becoming an overwhelmingly competitive career field. My professors are knowledgeable, highly experienced, and approachable, and I feel as though all of my professors are personally invested in my professional success." – Kelly Jacoby

"My immediate response to that question is, "Why would you choose something else?" Small class sizes, comfortable class environments that allow you to be yourself, knowledgeable professors who are current with academic trends and information, professors who care, are there to help and guide you toward your academic goals. I would choose WIU all over again (even a third time!)" – Amber Wetzel

Graduate Program Information

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Contact Information

Dr. Kristin Wiseley Phone: 309-762-3999 ext. 62316 Email: [email protected]

School of Education

• Undergrad Programs Overview
• Elementary Education
• Early Childhood Education
• Elementary Ed. ESL Option
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• Middle Level Education
• Special Education
• Special Education/Elementary Education Dual Major
• Educational Studies
• TESOL Minor
• M.A. in Teaching - Alternative Licensure
• M.S.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction
• M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership
• M.S.Ed. in Educational Studies
• M.S.Ed. in Reading
• M.S.Ed. in Special Education
• Ed.S. (Education Specialist) in Educational Leadership
• Ed.D. (Doctorate of Education) in Educational Leadership
• Bilingual Endorsement
• ESL Endorsement
• Reading Specialist and Reading Teacher Endorsements
• Principal Endorsement
• Special Education (LBS1)
• Superintendent Endorsement
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M.A.Ed. in Special Education

Program length.

2* to 2.5 years *With Professional Educator License (PEL)

CREDIT HOURS

Important dates.

Next Start Term: Fall I - August 26, 2024 (Priority Deadline: July 31)

Tuition Per Credit Hour: $575 Credit Hours to Complete: 33-45 Approximate Cost: $18,975 to $25,875

SXU's Special Education program is unique in that it's a master's level program approved by NCATE, as well as by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).

Our multicategorical approach prepares you to pursue positions as a K to age 22 special education teacher, special education coordinator or private practitioner, with students who have disabilities that range from mild to severe and profound.

The program includes the basic foundations of the discipline and courses in:

• Diagnostic assessment.
• Curriculum adaptations and modifications.
• Behavior management.
• Learning strategies.

Completion of the degree leads to Illinois LBS-I teaching licensure.

Field experiences will prepare you for your future career through direct observation and learning. Designated sites are provided by SXU's Education Division, though if you work at a school, you may use your school for a portion of your field experiences.

Students will obtain:

• Knowledge of disabilities, law, and effective collaboration.
• Ways to differentiate instruction and help students meet learning standards.
• Diagnostic capacity to ascertain best practices based on individual differences among students.
• Instructional strategies for literacy, numeracy, social sciences, science, the arts.
• Skills for adapting learning activities, instruction and assessment to meet the needs of individual students.

Special Education Challenges and Diversity

One of our faculty members states that special education is their passion because it's challenging, rewarding and diverse. They also note that "highly qualified educators, proficient in subject matter and pedagogy, may nonetheless be unable to reach a learner with reduced intellectual potential, emotional barriers, disorders of reading or math or sensory deficits."

"Special education is a problem-solving mission which is the educational equivalent of 'CSI' investigation to identify the barriers to learning. Special educators not only 'solve' the puzzle but also design lessons, implement strategies and evaluate the results."

Want to know more about graduate programs at Saint Xavier University? Please fill out the form below!

Graduate Admission

• 773-298-3053
• Email: graduateadmissionFREESXU

FAQ | Special Education

Article | "qualified teachers matter in illinois", article | "reasons to pursue special education or secondary education", the sxu difference.

Learn from Meg Carroll, Ed.D., professor of education, who teaches courses in special education and instructional methods. Dr. Carroll is a frequent presenter at conferences and staff development days throughout the state of Illinois, with over 1,150 combined presentations. She has also published five books and over 45 articles on the topics of special education.

Dr. Carroll serves as secretary and newsletter editor and is on the Professional Advisory Board of the Learning Disabilities Association of America.

Special Education Curriculum

The Special Education graduate program takes 2 to 2.5 years to complete to complete, with 33 to 45 credit hours in total, depending on your experience, earning a Master of Arts in Education. Please check out the program requirements in the SXU Academic Catalog for more information.

700 Hours of Experience in the Field

Field experiences accompany each course, leading eventually to practicum or student teaching. The weekly class format allows working adults to work on their degree programs while attending to their other responsibilities at home or in the workplace. The program is flexible and responds readily to any revised state or federal regulations.

Please view the admission requirements , as well as the program requirements and course descriptions in the SXU Academic Catalog for additional information.

Take the next step on your path to become a special education teacher. Please review the program's application requirements and apply online today!

With the federal government declaring special education to be an area of a teacher shortage, you may be eligible for TEACH grants . Minority teacher candidates may pursue Minority Teachers of Illinois (MTI) scholarships. If you have military experience, you may participate in the Troops to Teacher program.

Those who wish to serve their communities may pursue support through the Grow Your Own Teachers (GYO) program. Be sure to also complete your FAFSA and explore any tuition benefits that your district or school offers.

Meet the Faculty

Meg Carroll

Professor Phone: 773-298-3212 Email: [email protected]

Tony DeCesare

Assistant Professor Phone: 773-298-3222 Email: [email protected]

Laura Laskowski-Ferrell

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3435 Email: [email protected]

Kathleen McInerney

Professor Phone: 773-298-3591 Email: [email protected]

Julie Reinhart

Professor Phone: 773-341-5030 Email: [email protected]

Rania Sadeq

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3224 Email: [email protected]

Alexandra Santau

Director of Education Phone: 773-298-3221 Email: [email protected]

Melissa Stefanko

Asst Professorial Lecturer Phone: 773-298-3225 Email: [email protected]

Northern Illinois University Department of Special and Early Education College of Education

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• Special Education (M.S.Ed.)

Teaching children, adolescents and young adults with special needs is more than a job. It’s a calling, it’s a passion and it’s a reward. If this describes you, consider our M.S.Ed. in Special Education, which will enhance your preparation for a lifetime of nurturing and celebrating great accomplishments in your students. We offer three specializations: Advanced Special Education Practices, Behavior Analysis and Learning Behavior Specialist I. Ninety percent of our graduates are employed in the field within one year of completing our program, which is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education.

Choose Your Specialization

Advanced special education practices..

Pursue advanced studies in Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Director of Special Education or Special Education endorsement. You also can design your own area of interest and create your own master's program.

• SESE 592 Seminar in Special Education (3 credits) or
• SESE 747 Advanced Seminar in Special Education (3 credits)
• SESE 792 Seminar: Single Subject Research Methodologies in Special Education (3 credits)
• Coursework in the major (12-15 credits)
• Additional coursework approved by advisor (6-9 credits)

Note: Prerequisites may be required for some courses.

Behavior Analysis

• SESE 511 Ethics and Professional Behavior for Behavior Analysts (3 credits)
• SESE 515 Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
• SESE 570 Concepts and Principles of Behavior Analysis (3 credits)
• SESE 578 Issues and Trends in Teaching Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
• SESE 592 Seminar in Special Education (3 credits)
• SESE 606 Methods for Teaching Students with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)  or  SESE 526 Working with and Supporting Families of Young Children with Disabilities and Special Needs (3 credits)
• SESE 708 Advanced Behavior Assessment and Functional Analysis (3 credits)
• SESE 709 Advanced Applied Behavior Analysis and Research-based Interventions for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (3 credits)
• SESE 710 Behavioral Applications and Consultation in School and Community Settings (3 credits)
• SESE 792 Seminar: Single-Case Research Methodologies for Behavior Analysts (3 credits)

Learning Behavior Specialist I

If you're seeking initial licensure as a special education teacher of individuals with disabilities (other than visual disabilities and deafness), you'll learn about teaching all students and including students into schools and communities. You'll also learn to incorporate common core standards into everyday instruction, how to develop individual education plans and how to use assistive technology in your classroom.

• SESE 540 Foundations of Special Education (3 credits)
• SESE 552 Assistive Technology for Multiple Disabilities (3 credits)
• SESE 554 Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavior Support in School and Community Settings (3 credits)
• SESE 559 Planning for the Transition from School to Employment, Career and Postsecondary Education for Students with Disabilities (3 credits)
• SESE 561 Methods for Teaching Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (3 credits)
• SESE 601 Methods for Teaching Students with Mild Disabilities (4 credits)
• SESE 602 Methods for Teaching Middle and Secondary Students with Mild Disabilities (3 credits)
• SESE 603 Functional Analysis for Special Educators (3 credits)
• SESE 605 Consultation, Collaboration, and Communication Skills for Special Educators (3 credits)
• SESE 606 Methods for Teaching Students with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (3 credits)
• SESE 607 Special Education Capstone/ Pre-Student Teaching Seminar (1 credit)
• With approval of the department, SESE 608 can be waived for candidates who have documented sufficient professional experience.
• Students take this course for three semester hours.
• ETR 524 Assessing Students with Special Needs (3 credits)
• One graduate-level course in research, such as SESE 692, or approved by advisor.
• Admission Requirements
• Learning Outcomes

You'll need to submit:

• Your application to the Graduate School .
• Your official transcripts (our faculty select those applicants who are most qualified, typically requiring a GPA of 3.0 or higher for the last two years of your undergraduate work) and test scores.
• Two letters of recommendation from your employers, supervisors or professors.
• Your personal statement of why you're applying and your goals for a career in special education.

During your program of study, you will:

• Write a personalized philosophy of special education based on historical, legal, civil rights and research in the special education field
• Write and teach lesson and unit plans for students with mild, moderate and severe disabilities based on individual student needs and characteristics.
• Develop and implement a behavior intervention plan for a student with challenging behavior.
• Describe assistive technologies to use for students with disabilities based on their unique needs and characteristics.
• Early Childhood Education (M.S.Ed.)
• Special Education: Behavior Analysis (M.S.Ed.)
• Special Education: Visual Disabilities (M.S.Ed.)
• Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist for People with Visual Impairments (Certificate)
• Behavior Analyst (Certificate)
• Director of Special Education (Certificate)
• Early Childhood Special Education (Approval)
• Short-term Emergency Approval in Special Education (Approval)
• Special Education (Endorsement)

Special and Early Education Gabel Hall 159 815-753-1619 [email protected]

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College of Education and Psychology

Be an architect of human potential .

Take the first step toward making a positive impact in your community. At The University of Texas Tyler’s College of Education and Psychology, we give you the tools to become a caring, service-oriented professional in education, psychology or counseling.

Hands-on coursework teaches you the best practices for a clinic, classroom or other educational setting. Through our small class sizes, our renowned faculty support and mentor you throughout your studies. Round out your education through research opportunities, internships and practicums. By the time you graduate, you are ready to take your field’s respective licensure exam and embark on a career that enriches the lives of East Texans.

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Whether you are a first-year college student discovering your vocation or a seasoned professional wanting to deepen your knowledge, our programs train you to better serve and uplift individuals in communities and schools across East Texas.

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Hands-on training and academic enrichment.

Improving Lives Through Science

One of our main goals is to help the residents of East Texas meet their full potential. Research is an essential part of that mission, and some of our major areas of focus include STEM education, literacy and understanding cognitive impairment in older adults. Through our partnerships with local nonprofits, schools and educational institutions, we actively apply our knowledge and experience to make effective changes today.

Participate in faculty-led research projects as early as your freshman year. As a graduate student, you can help discover solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the field through our five research centers.

Discover How to Maximize Others’ Potential

East Texas Center for School-Based Research and Instruction

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Education Beyond the Classroom

Gain practical experience through fieldwork, clinical teaching, internships and practicums. We have multiple partnerships around East Texas where you can fulfill the requirements needed for teaching and clinical certifications, as well as opportunities on campus. For those looking to make an impact beyond our borders, take advantage of UT Tyler’s partnership with Belize to access study abroad, professional development and research opportunities.

Put Your Newfound Skills Into Practice Before You Even Graduate

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Embrace your calling in our collaborative, nurturing community that understands the role of support in achieving your goals. Our team of advisors guides you through all program requirements and helps you create a personalized plan of study.

We Help You Become the Professional You Know You Can Be

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