Special Education

Whether you are new to teaching or experienced, we can help you be an advocate for children and families with diverse learning backgrounds and needs. We will help you design assessment and instruction that is responsive to and inclusive of diverse thinking and learning.

Be Extraordinary. Be a Special Educator.

Join our 640 alumni who are using their special education degrees to serve children and families around North Carolina and the nation.

When you apply to one of our master’s programs today, you will also qualify for an opportunity to receive financial support. If selected, this award will be dispersed in increments and can be utilized however you see fit (e.g. tuition, books, etc.).

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Application Dates

Fall: July 15
Summer 1 and 2: April 15
Spring: November 1

Request More Information About Special Education

Get more information about our flexible programs that will prepare you to meet the needs of all students, especially those with disabilities and special needs.

Find the Best Program for You

Master of Arts in Teaching

Become a special education teacher and receive your initial teaching licensure through online, face-to-face, and hybrid courses. Designed for those with no background or degree in education, this degree includes a residency that puts you in the classroom two days per week and can be completed in one year.

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Graduate Certificate

Improve your ability to work with children with diverse learning backgrounds through this online graduate certificate. Designed for those already in schools, this program helps educators address state-wide mandates to implement Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and is a pathway to a Master of Education.

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Master of Education

Enhance your special education teaching skills or prepare to teach students with high incidence disabilities. For classroom teachers seeking an advanced license or a new license, this flexible graduate degree equips you to better meet the needs of all students and positions you for leadership opportunities.

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Why Special Education at NC State

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Flexible

You can take courses online, in-person in the evening, or through a mix of face-to-face and online courses.

Relevant

Your courses prepare you for the opportunities and challenges you face in your classrooms and schools.

Graduate

Timely

You can earn a degree or certificate in one or two years.

Price Tag

Affordable

You can complete a program for less than $15,000 if you’re a North Carolina resident and qualify for financial assistance.

When you join the NC State College of Education, you join the best teacher preparation program in North Carolina.

#1

Best Value in N.C. (Money Magazine)

Top 12%

Among Graduate Education Programs in U.S. (U.S. News)

#1

Performing Teaching Alumni on Various Measures in N.C. (DPI)