Program Overview
The University of Kansas offers a Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Special Education, designed for educators and professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in inclusive teaching, behavioral support, and special education leadership. This masters in special education program provides research-based strategies and practical applications to support diverse learning needs in schools and communities. KU’s Department of Special Education is consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation.
The program offers five distinct concentrations, allowing students to tailor their masters in special education to specific licensure areas and professional goals:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder: Prepares educators to support individuals with autism across the lifespan through evidence-based instructional and behavioral practices.
- Early Childhood Unified: Focuses on inclusive early childhood education and intervention for young children with and without disabilities.
- High-incidence Disabilities: Emphasizes instructional strategies and assessment for students with learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and other high-incidence needs.
- Low-incidence Disabilities: Prepares professionals to work with students with significant support needs, including intellectual and multiple disabilities.
- Secondary Transition Education and Services: Develops expertise in transition planning, career development, and postsecondary outcomes for adolescents and young adults with disabilities.
Our masters in special education offers multiple pathways to accommodate different career goals, including options for certification and specialized online coursework in Autism Spectrum Disorder and High-incidence Disabilities. These pathways are designed for working professionals and can be completed through structured, interactive online coursework led by KU faculty. Whether you want to work directly with students with disabilities, develop special education policies, or take on leadership roles, KU’s program provides the training and credentials to help you succeed.
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Graduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Master's in Special EducationKU School of Education and Human Sciences
The Master’s of Special Education is part of the School of Education and Human Sciences, preparing educators and human science professionals of the future.Master’s in Special Education Learning Outcomes
Graduates of KU’s masters in special education program will:
- Design and implement evidence-based instructional practices for learners with diverse disabilities and support needs
- Conduct assessment and data-based decision-making to inform individualized education programs (IEPs)
- Apply positive behavioral interventions and supports within inclusive educational environments
- Demonstrate knowledge of federal and state special education law, policy, and ethical practice
- Collaborate effectively with families, educators, and interdisciplinary teams
- Engage in professional leadership, advocacy, and ongoing scholarly inquiry in special education
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Special Education?
A masters in special education opens doors to impactful careers in education, intervention, and advocacy. Depending on concentration and licensure, graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Special Education Teacher
- Autism Specialist
- Behavior Intervention Specialist
- Transition Coordinator
- Educational Consultant
- Special Education Administrator
According to Lightcast, employment for graduates with a masters degree in special education remains steady nationwide.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options for graduate students.
For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To apply for KU’s masters in special education, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, including official transcripts
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
- Two letters of recommendation
- A personal statement outlining your area of interest and licensure status
- Current resume/CV
For detailed requirements and deadlines, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students enrolled in the masters in special education benefit from both campus-based and structured online learning communities. The Autism Spectrum Disorder and High-incidence Disabilities specialties are delivered in a cohort-based online format that emphasizes faculty interaction, applied projects, and collaboration with peers across districts and states.
Campus-based students in Early Childhood Unified and Low-incidence Disabilities engage in in-person coursework and field placements in partner schools and community agencies throughout the region. Online students complete supervised practica and applied experiences within their local school or community settings.
Across all modalities, students participate in:
- Field-based practica and supervised experiences
- Research collaborations with faculty on inclusive education and behavioral supports
- Engagement with special education leaders through conferences and workshops
- Applied projects that integrate assessment, instruction, and intervention planning
Master’s in Special Education Sample Courses
KU’s MS special education curriculum reflects current research and practice across disability categories. Sample courses include:
- Overview of Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education
- Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports for Students with Low-Incidence Disabilities
- Appropriate Education and Least Restrictive Environment
- Education of Children and Youth with Disabilities: Autism
For additional details, please visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Special Education Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
The priority date for application to the program is July 1, with a final deadline of Aug. 13.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.
Is the degree available remotely and on campus?
The degree is available on campus or online