Special Education

Earn your master’s in special education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks

Our special education degree is the first (and only) program in the United States to earn Exemplary Status by Quality Matters, a recognized leader in quality assurance for online education. All courses for the special education online master’s degree include quality online activities and evaluations that are research-supported and practice-based, and have been peer-reviewed through a rigorous certification process. Graduates of this program experience an almost 100% job placement rate.

Ashley Walley

Ashley Walley, Special Education Pre-K Teacher at Anderson Elementary on Eielson Air Force Base

“As a full-time working mom, it was important for me to be able to participate in the program via the online opportunities that UAF provides. This program provided me the flexibility, expertise, convenience and knowledge needed to become a special educator.”

Who Is the Master’s Degree in Special Education Designed For?

This program is designed for K-12 special education teachers and other professionals who want to or currently work with students with disabilities but who are not seeking teacher certification in special education. If you’re not already a certified teacher and plan to teach in Alaska, we also offer several certification and endorsement options that you can earn on their own or in combination with a master’s degree.

Why Earn Your Master’s in Special Education Online at UAF?

Special education teachers make a crucial difference in the lives of children with special needs. Earning your master’s degree will enrich your skills as an educator and provide the foundation for career advancement. Here are reasons to earn your master’s in special education online at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

  • Earn your master’s degree in special education In-person or online in an Exemplary Program (as certified by Quality Matters) with an almost 100% job placement rate for graduates.
  • Get specialized training for teaching in Alaska in a program that integrates knowledge and experiences unique to the Alaska context. You’ll also be well prepared to teach special education elsewhere in the United States and internationally.
  • Learn from experienced educators and receive practical training through various fieldwork experiences in local-to-you K-12 special education classrooms.
  • Engage with peers via synchronous (same time) class meetings, using Blackboard Collaborate.
  • Students with an initial teaching certificate can complete the program fully online; however, students cannot complete initial teaching certificate requirements fully online.

Degree Type

  • Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Availability

  • Online with synchronous group and class meetings

Accredited by

  • Alaska Department of Education and Early Development
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

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Complete Your Master’s in Special Education

Online Classes at UAF

At UAF, online courses typically do not have set meeting times but do have weekly deadlines. While there are some standard practices, each course is designed by the instructor to best teach the material. Most courses run the full length of the 16-week semester.