Master’s Degree in Special Education

Online M.Ed. in Special Education for Initial Teacher Licensure

Earn your Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Special Education from the nationally ranked, fully online graduate program at Loyola. You will graduate eligible for initial teacher licensure in Special Education in Maryland.

Program Overview

  • Credits: 39
  • Online synchronous format with in-person internship 
  • Start in fall, spring, or summer
  • Full-time or part-time
  • Finish in as little as 1 year*

About the Special Education Program

The M.Ed. in Special Education program is for individuals seeking initial teacher licensure in Special Education in Maryland. 

The elementary/middle program leads to initial licensure in Special Education, grades 1-8.  The secondary/adult program leads to initial licensure in Special Education, grades 6-adult. 

Special Education graduate courses are taught in a synchronous, online format. Classes are 8 weeks or 15 weeks. Students also complete an in-person internship during the program. 

Full-time students start in the summer. Part-time students can start in the fall, spring, or summer.  

The M.Ed. in Special Education program focuses on both theoretical aspects of the field and practical application. The program offers students a strong foundation. Students will find themselves exploring management, methods, literacy, and research during their time with the program, culminating in a hands-on internship. 

Learn more about the curriculum and course of study in the Graduate Catalog. 

View a sample course sequence

Apply to Loyola’s Special Education Program

Join Loyola’s nationally ranked, fully online M.Ed. in Special Education program.

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Official transcripts
  • One letter of recommendation
  • Optional resume
  • $60 application fee (waived when you attend a virtual information session)

Note: This program is not available to international applicants. A Form I-20 cannot be issued for this program.

Review Admission Requirements Apply Now

Loyola offers various opportunities for financial aid, including Merit Scholarships, Ignatius Grant Awards, and Graduate Assistantships.

Explore Scholarships and Aid View Program Costs

Combined 5th Year Master's Program for Loyola Undergrads

Undergraduate students may participate in a five-year program that results in a bachelor's degree in their chosen area of major and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education. This pathway allows students to begin graduate coursework during their senior year and continue into the master’s program after completing their undergraduate degree.

BCPS Partnership with Special Education Program

The Baltimore Teacher Apprenticeship Program (BTAP) allows students to earn their M.Ed. in Special Education while maintaining active employment.

Learn more about BTAP

Tell Me More About Loyola’s Online Special Education Program

Connect with Loyola to learn more about the nationally ranked M.Ed. in Special Education program, upcoming information sessions, and more. 

Learn More

Loyola provided me with a ton of support. They always had their arms wide open. I walked into a graduate program where the teachers believed in you.
I feel like I was really given a broad range of tools to use, and that translates to confidence in the classroom. Loyola’s program was a one-stop shop.
Especially in this economy, it’s important to know I’m going to walk out with my master’s degree and be marketable, and someone is going to want to hire me because I went to Loyola.

Outcomes of Special Education Graduate Program

Students will...

Develop advanced skills that meet the special education needs of learner

Develop advanced skills in designing, implementing and evaluating evidence-based practices that meet the special education needs of learners.

Design and implement inclusive and culturally responsive practices

Design and implement inclusive and culturally responsive practices that foster academic growth and social emotional learning for all leaners.

Understand the conceptual underpinnings of special education

Understand the conceptual underpinnings of special education, as well as policies that guide its implementation in school and community settings.

Analyze contemporary issues surrounding special education

Analyze contemporary issues surrounding special education and the impact of exceptionality on individuals and their families.

Utilize data analysis techniques to monitor student progress

Utilize data analysis techniques to monitor student progress, make informed instructional decisions, and adjust interventions to optimize learning outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

Advocate for inclusive policies and practices

Advocate for inclusive policies and practices at local, state, and national levels, demonstrating leadership in promoting equity, access, and quality education for individuals with disabilities within diverse educational contexts.

Ready to learn more?

Explore the following links or contact us at education@loyola.edu or 410-617-2990.

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