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

Program Overview

Ready to take your expertise in special education to the next level and make a lasting impact? UNC Charlotte’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education and Child Development with a concentration in Special Education program is designed for experienced teachers like you.

Empower yourself as a leader

  • Develop critical skills: Master evidence-based or research-based instructional practices, collaborative leadership, and responsive instruction to promote student learning in your classroom.
  • Advance your career: Earn the M-level North Carolina Professional Educator’s License and qualify for leadership roles in special education.
  • Enjoy flexibility: Pursue your degree 100% online with a schedule that accommodates your busy professional life.
  • Deepen your knowledge: Gain in-depth understanding of behavioral assessment, transition-focused education, special education research, and specialized approaches for learners with varied needs.

Program Contact

Special Education and Child Development: Special Education, M.Ed. at a Glance

Enroll today in the Special Education and Child Development: Special Education M.Ed. program to become a leader in special education and make a lasting impact. Gain expertise in evidence-based practices, assessment, and intervention strategies to support learners with varied needs.

Delivery
Online
Credits
33 Credit Hours
Admits
Spring, Summer & Fall
Courses

The courses are delivered in a combination of synchronous and asynchronous modes. Synchronous online learning involves live, online teaching in recurring weekly time slots.

Core Courses (9 credit hours)

Introductory Research Course (3 credit hours)

Research Courses (9 credit hours)

Specialty Track Courses (12 credit hours)
Select elective courses within a single specialty track:

The program’s rigorous courses are designed to support candidates in developing the skills, knowledge, and competencies to be excellent educators, leaders and professionals. Designed with the career-oriented professional in mind, classes provide an environment that stimulates engaging and challenging discussions. Students will learn how to design effective instruction and develop strategies that will help promote the academic and social behaviors of students with disabilities.

Admissions & Requirements

The next available term for admission will be Spring 2026. 

Application Deadlines

The next available term for admission will be Spring 2026. 

Applicants can apply via the UNC Charlotte Graduate Admissions website.

Outlook

What Can You Do with the M.Ed. In Special Education and Child Development from UNC Charlotte?

UNC Charlotte M.Ed. in Special Education graduates go on to work as special education teachers or other roles in organizations. They can be found in school districts and educational providers such as:

Strong 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 program and found the average annual estimated wage to be approximately $78,600.

Why UNC Charlotte?

Accredited program: Recognized for its quality and commitment to preparing exceptional educators. All teacher education programs at UNC Charlotte are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The M.Ed. in Special Education and Child Development with a concentration in Special Education has been approved by the North Carolina State Board of Education.

Experienced faculty: Learn from dedicated professionals who understand the challenges and rewards of your field.

Supportive learning community: Connect with fellow educators and build a valuable network.

Affordable tuition: Invest in your future with competitive tuition rates and financial aid options..

Tuition

Resident: $288.82 per credit hour

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

Non Resident: $1,098.21 per credit hour

Please note: Rates are subject to change.