Diversity, Engagement and Flexibility
Earn your Special Education Generalist master’s degree or licensure in a nationally-ranked education program with a graduate employment rate that exceeds 95 percent. You’ll interact with special needs students, educators and community members on a level you won’t find in most programs. And whether you study on-campus or online, you’ll work closely with top faculty who are accessible and engaged, as well as students from around the world who bring diverse perspectives to the classroom.
At UNC, you can complete your Special Education Generalist degree in two years, or even faster with our accelerated program options. The program is offered on campus and online. All Generalist on-campus courses are offered evenings and some weekends. You can combine online and on-site classes to fit your needs.
Degree Details
Credits Required:
30-36
Location/Delivery:
Online
Time to Completion:
1.5 - 2 years
Degree Options
M.A. in Special Education: Generalist
Gain the skills to work with K-12 students across a wide range of needs and abilities. When you graduate, you’ll be prepared to work with 85 percent of all students who need special education services. The M.A. Generalist program adheres to different sets of national and state standards.
Take the next step! Explore courses, contact information and admission requirements.
Endorsement (Non-degree)
If you already have a teaching license and/or a master's degree from past studies, and you're looking to add a teaching endorsement in special education, look no further than this program.
Related Programs
Join the Student Council for Exceptional Children Club
At UNC, you can join the longest running Student Council for Exceptional Children Club in Colorado—an international club with more than 300 members that focuses on the unique challenges facing special education students. Visit our Facebook page.
Your Future in Special Education
Schools everywhere have a growing number of students who have special educational needs. With a master’s degree in the Special Education Generalist program, you’ll bring highly-valued teaching skills to the job market and be positioned for career leadership.
Consider UNC's M.A. Special Education: Generalist if you are:
- A current licensed teacher or seeking to become a teacher
- Dedicated to helping diverse students with different needs to succeed in education
- Looking for a flexible graduate program you can complete while continuing to work
You’ll learn:
- Cutting-edge theory and evidence-based practice for working in general education, facilities, hospitals and homebound instruction.
- Methods for teaching students across a broad range of disabilities, including learning and behavior disabilities, autism, cognitive and intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities.
- Skills to effectively collaborate with students, families, educators and community members.
Sample courses:
- Foundations of Special Education
- Learning Environments and Cultural Considerations
- Applied Assessment
- Behavioral Interventions
- Mathematics and Content Area Learning for Students with Disabilities
- Educating Students with Significant Support Needs
Ready for what's next? Here's what you need to know.
If there's anything else we can do, be sure to connect with us. We're only a shout away.
Still not completely sold? We understand. Here's more information on costs and funding and how to apply.
