Online Master of Arts in Teaching - Special Education Teaching

UNC Greensboro’s Online Master’s in Special Education offers a fast-track pathway to teacher licensure while preparing educators to serve learners in K–12 settings. Through a fully online cohort model, students learn alongside peers, engage with experienced faculty, and develop expertise in evidence-based practices that improve outcomes for students with disabilities. The program’s emphasis on collaboration and real-world problem solving equips graduates to become effective special education professionals from day one. This program leads to both initial teacher licensure and a master’s degree. It is designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree, but did not pursue teacher education or licensure as an undergraduate.

Online MAster’s in SPECIAL EDUCATION Program Distinctions

UNCG’s School of Education has been consistently rated as one of the “Top Graduate Schools of Education” by U.S. News & World Report while also rating 12th among the publication’s Best Online Master’s in Special Education programs.

Candidates can complete the program in approximately 15 months while working toward initial North Carolina licensure in Special Education: General Curriculum (K-12). This accelerated pathway distinguishes UNCG from many programs that require more time or cater primarily to licensed educators.

The Experience as an Online Master’s in Special Education Student

Students in the MAT in Special Education program complete coursework online while progressing through the experience as part of a cohort. This structure provides flexibility for working adults while also fostering collaboration, peer support, and professional networking — something that is often lacking in fully online graduate programs. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with professors in an environment that fosters growth and emphasizes the delivery of services in integrated settings.

Throughout the program, students engage in case studies and problem-based learning experiences that emphasize the implementation of evidence-based instructional and behavioral interventions.

Coursework include classes such as Educational Psychology and Differentiated Instruction, Introduction to Special Education, and Literacy Instruction for Students with Disabilities.

Prepare to Make a Lasting Impact on Students and Families With an MaT in Special Education

Special educators play a vital role in helping students reach their full potential, and the MAT in Special Education program prepares participants to meet that challenge with confidence. Through coursework focused on instructional strategies, behavior support, assessment, and collaboration, students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to support learners with diverse abilities and needs.

Graduates leave prepared to advocate for students, implement effective interventions, and create learning environments where all students can succeed. UNCG-trained educators make a positive difference in the lives of students.

UNCG School of Education Scholarships

Each year, the School of Education awards over $1 million in scholarships and graduate assistantships to students.

The Haggai Academy is a scholarship program that provides scholarships of up to $8,000 per year, as well as a wide range of additional enrichment opportunities, for non-traditional students (24 years of age or older) pursuing an initial teacher license.

After GraduatiNG WITH YOUR Online MAT in SPECIAL EDUCATION

The program prepares candidates to teach students with disabilities who follow the general curriculum in a variety of educational settings. Example careers include special education teacher, inclusion specialist, and resource teacher.

The U.S. Department of Education requires that all higher education institutions advise students as to whether their curriculum provides them with the eligibility to apply for a professional license and/or certification in the state for which they plan to practice. As such, please review UNC Greensboro’s status by state for the initial teaching license. You should note whether the program either “meets”, “does not meet”, or if there “has not been a determination” of the program’s status in the state for which you plan to practice. Licensure Reciprocity Information

ADDITIONAL Requirements for the Master’s in SPECIAL EDUCATION

Applicants to the MAT in Special Education program must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field and have graduated with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

In addition to the application materials required by The Graduate School, applicants must submit a current re­sume, three letters of recommendation (on official letterhead), official transcripts, and a Personal Statement of Purpose (goals, past experience, and unique skills). 

All application materials required by The Graduate School must be submitted by the appropriate deadline.