Special Education (M.S.Ed.)
Nurture students and celebrate their achievements in this fulfilling career.
Teaching children, adolescents and young adults with special needs is more than a job. It's a calling, it's a passion and it's a reward. If this resonates with you, consider our M.S.Ed. in special education, which will enhance your preparation for a lifetime of supporting your students and recognizing their great accomplishments. Ninety percent of our graduates are employed in the field within one year of completing our program, which is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education.
Choose a specialization in advanced special education practices, behavior analysis or learning behavior specialist I.
At a Glance
30-36 credit hours
In person
Full or part time
Start in the fall semester
Choose Your Specialization
Advanced Special Education Practices
This specialization allows you to pursue advanced studies in special education, including subsequent LBS-1 endorsement. You can design your own program focused on your unique interests and goals.
Behavior Analysis
Behavior analysis is the application of the science of learning to the solution of problems of social significance. Behavior analysts work in schools, homes and community settings, consulting in the assessment, design, implementation and evaluation of behavioral interventions for learners across a variety of skills.
This specialization is designed for educators and other professionals who wish to gain expertise in behavior analysis. Our program is pursuing recognition through ABAI’s Tiered Model of Education. Pursuit of recognition does not denote recognition status.
New cohorts start each fall. The program is 30 credits (10 courses), primarily online and can be completed in five semesters.
In addition to coursework, you’ll have to meet additional requirements, including securing your own supervising BCBA® if your employer does not provide one. Refer to the BCBA handbook and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board for more information.
Learning Behavior Specialist I
If you're seeking initial licensure as a special education teacher of individuals with disabilities (other than visual disabilities and deafness), you'll learn about teaching all students and including them in schools and communities. You'll also learn to incorporate common core standards into everyday instruction, how to develop individual education plans and how to use assistive technology in your classroom.
Career Outlook for M.S.Ed. in Special Education Graduates
Average mid-career salary for alumni:
Top job titles for alumni:
Top employers for alumni:
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How to Apply
You’ll apply through the Graduate School.
- Fall application deadline: July 15 (May 1 for international applicants)
- Spring deadline: Dec. 10 (Oct. 1 for international applicants)
- Summer deadline: June 1
Application Materials
Learn about application materials required by the Graduate School.
Costs and Funding
Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.
Assistantships
Many NIU graduate students have an assistantship, which provides financial support (typically a tuition waiver and stipend), as well as career preparation.
Curriculum and Requirements
Your program requirements depend on the specialization you choose to pursue.
View Program RequirementsFaculty
Our faculty bring diverse experiences, backgrounds, scholarship and expertise from various areas across special education. They’re committed to facilitating engaging learning experiences in and outside the classroom.