University of Kentucky®
Masters Degree (MS) in
Special Education
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 30
CREDENTIALS MS Degree
COST PER CREDIT
$753.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Masters Degrees
- Special Education (MS)
About this Program
Advance your career as a special education teacher. This hybrid online program will strengthen your skills to guide students with disabilities. Learn alongside leading special educators across the state in this top-ranked program.
We offer two tracks/areas of specialization tailored to specific student populations, allowing educators to focus their expertise and make a meaningful impact in their chosen area of specialization.
Learning and Behavior Disorders Track: This concentration focuses on addressing the needs of students with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges. It provides in-depth training on the identification, assessment, and intervention strategies for students with disorders such as dyslexia, ADHD, and various emotional and behavioral disorders. Students in this track will gain expertise in designing individualized education programs (IEPs), implementing evidence-based instructional techniques, and employing behavioral management strategies to support and enhance student learning and development.
Moderate and Severe Disabilities Track: This track is designed for educators working with students who have moderate to severe disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and multiple disabilities. The program emphasizes specialized instructional methods, assistive technologies, and adaptive strategies to meet the complex needs of these students. Coursework covers areas such as functional behavior analysis, vocational training, and transition planning, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to create inclusive educational environments and support students in achieving their fullest potential.
Kentucky teachers who complete the special education master’s degree will be recommended to the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board for a Rank 2.
Designed For
This program is for educators passionate about supporting students with diverse learning needs, including disabilities and developmental disorders. Prospective students often have backgrounds in education, psychology, or related fields and are committed to enhancing their skills in inclusive education, curriculum adaptation, and specialized instructional strategies to foster academic and social success for all learners.
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What You’ll Learn
Our program prepares its graduates to be reflective thinkers, consumers and producers of research, to implement best-practices, and to demonstrate leadership in their profession. The Master of Science in Special Education will strengthen your ability to serve students with disabilities and develop professional contacts for sharing expertise within your field.
The 30-31 hour master's can be completed on a part-time basis over the course of five semesters (2.5 calendar years). There are two specializations/tracks for this program:
- Learning and Behavior Disorders
- Moderate and Severe Disabilities
Students taking the online version of the program can attend courses virtually and can interact with professors and classmates in real-time. All classes take place in the evenings to allow teachers to complete their workday prior to attending class.
Course Examples
- EDS 601 Applied Behavior Analysis
- EDS 603 Behavioral Consultation in Schools
- EDS 630 Advanced Methods for Teaching Students with Disabilities
- EDS 633 Single Subject Research Design
- EDS 634 Leadership in Special Education
- EDS 768 Residence Credit for Master’s Degree
GOT QUESTIONS?
Schedule time to meet with a representative from UK Online to discuss your online learning options.
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
- Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field (e.g., Psychology) from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
- Applicants must satisfactorily pass a criminal background check prior to completing practicum experiences.
- An overall grade point average of 2.75 on undergraduate work and 3.00 on all graduate work, if applicable.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
Application Requirements
- Curriculum Vita
- The CV or resume must include prior education/degrees, the institutions attended (including years), prior teaching certification and/or other professional certification/licensure (if any), and employment history.
- Personal Statement
- Within the personal statement, applicants must include a biographical sketch that addresses the evolution of their professional career, research interests, and their professional goals as they relate to the master of science program of study. Applicants must also indicate their proposed departmental area of emphasis from among the following: Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) or Moderate and Severe Disabilities (MSD).
- Writing Sample
- Applicants must include a sample of professional academic writing such as a published manuscript, or a major paper from previous coursework.
- Three letters of recommendation
- Provide contact information for three (3) references. The application system will contact them to upload their letter.
- Official transcripts
- Interview
- Applicants must participate in an interview with program faculty.
Program Contact
Deadlines
Fall 2025
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
No test scores required.
Degrees are conferred by the University of Kentucky, an accredited university.
Save money by paying for only 9 standard credit hours per semester, even if you take more.
Access supporting services and success coaches to help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
What is the admission criteria?
Please view the Admission Criteria section, located under "How to Apply" on this page.
Online Learning
This program denotes "Online in Real-time". What exactly does that mean?
The program is utilizing synchronous lectures for a large portion of instruction. This requires students to log on and attend class or activities at a specified time listed in the syllabus. This could be a weekly occurrence, or less frequent. To learn more about the schedule, reach out the the program contact listed on this page.
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Will my degree say “online”?
No, you are awarded the same diploma from UK as students who take classes in-person. There is no denotation of “online” on your diploma or your transcripts.
Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?
Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.
Should I enroll as a full-time graduate student?
This depends on each student and their ability to manage the heavy course load of enrolling full-time, which is 9 credit hours (typically, 3 classes) per semester. Students who enroll full-time may find it difficult to keep even a part-time job. Students who are able to manage a full-time courseload can take advantage of our Graduate Tuition Cap and save on tuition, which offers a flat tuition rate per semester when enrolled in 9 or more credit hours.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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