Special Education and Child Development: Child and Family Studies, M.Ed. – Online

Introductory Research Course (3 credit hours)

• RSCH 6101: Research Methods (3)

Core Courses (15 credit hours)

• CHFD 6102: Learning and Development (3)
• CHFD 6115: Child and Family Advocacy (3)
• CHFD 6210: Inclusive Education for Young Children (3)
• CHFD 6220: Family Theory and Research (3)
• CHFD 6240: Advanced Studies in Infant and Child Development (3)

Applied Research/Evaluation Course (3 credit hours)

• CHFD 6900: Research in Child and Family Studies (Master’s Thesis) (3)

Required Specialty Courses (9 credit hours)

Required courses within the Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) specialty track. Other graduate level courses offered by the Cato College of Education require approval from the advisor.

• SPED 6111 – Advanced Issues in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) (3)
• SPED 6242 – Enhancing Communication and Supporting Behaviors in Inclusive Settings: B-K (3)
• SPED 6350 – Young Children with Disabilities and their Families: Interdisciplinary Collaboration (3)

Leadership Seminar Course (3 credit hours)

• CHFD 7400 – Applied Leadership in Child and Family Studies (3)

Degree Total = 33 Credit Hours

• Complete the Graduate School Admission Application.
• A bachelor’s degree in child and family development, elementary education, special education, or a related field from a college or university accredited by an accepted accrediting body
• Official transcripts of all previous work beyond high school documenting an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale)
• Official agency reports of satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test score (30th percentile or above). Students who have concerns about standardized testing (GRE) should contact the program director.
• Three letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant’s personal or professional qualifications; letters should include a combination of professional, academic, and/or personal references
• A personal statement outlining why the applicant seeks admission to the program and describing professional experiences with young children and their families; goals upon the completion of the program should be addressed
• A copy of resume, listing the applicant’s professional experience

• August 1 (fall)

Applicants can apply via the UNC Charlotte Graduate Admissions website.

UNC Charlotte M.Ed. in Special Education and Child Development with a concentration in Child and Family Studies graduates go on to work in a variety of jobs such as preschool and postsecondary teachers, assistant professors, childcare administrators, and case managers. They can be found in organizations such as:

• Stanly Community College
• Guilford Technical Community College
• Easterseals
• Hopebridge
• Atrium Health

Salary expectations

Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics research, collects job and salary data from UNC Charlotte graduates. Lightcast sampled graduates of our M.Ed. in Special Education and Child Development with a concentration in Child and Family Studies and found the average annual estimated wage to be approximately $57,800.

Why Choose UNC Charlotte’s M.Ed. in Special Education and Child Development program with a Concentration in Child and Family Studies?

Flexibility for Working Professionals: Our entirely online program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. This flexibility allows you to balance your education with personal and professional commitments.

Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program covers a wide range of topics, including advanced studies in child development, family dynamics, and inclusive education practices. Courses are designed to emphasize equity, diversity, and the impact of societal structures on children and families.

Experienced Faculty: Learn from faculty members who are not only scholars in their fields but also practitioners with years of experience working directly with children and families. Our faculty are committed to mentoring students like you and facilitating your professional growth.

Resident: $288.82 per credit hour

Outside of NC Non-Resident: $536.98 per credit hour

Non Resident: $1,098.21 per credit hour