Master's in Special Education

About the Special Education Master's Program at TROY

Empower and help change the lives of students of all abilities with a Master of Science in Education (M.S. Ed.) in Collaborative/Special Education from Troy University. Our collaborative teaching graduate program enables you to advance your special education career, whether that means enhancing your classroom teaching or moving into an administrative position.

A Comprehensive Special Education Master's Degree

Advance your skill set in special education with a holistic and practical degree program. TROY's program allows you to collaborate with practicing teachers and your classmates on real-life teaching scenarios, building on your pedagogical knowledge and skills. You'll learn evidence-based practices for working with students with a wide range of disabilities, including learning, intellectual and emotional challenges. With a strong focus on teaching reading and math, you'll be prepared to address some of the strongest academic areas of need.

A Growing Demand for Special Education Teachers

Help fill a growing critical need in Alabama and throughout the nation. With many states experiencing a shortage of special education teachers, there's a greater need than ever for skilled educators. TROY's master's in special education degree qualifies you to help meet this need. After graduation, you'll be able to work as a classroom teacher in public or private schools. You'll also be prepared to pursue further education to become an administrator or instructional coach. At TROY, you can choose between K-6 or 6-12 tracks depending on your goals.

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Master of Science in Collaborative/Special Education Curriculum

While specific courses may vary from year to year, your coursework may include:

Academic Catalog

Degree Maps

Master's in Special Education Program Locations

Get the flexibility you need by earning your master's in special education online. For more information about program availability and delivery options call 1-800-414-5756

Troy Campus

Troy Online

Broaden Your Impact on Learners of All Abilities

If you want to make an even stronger difference in your school, TROY's special education degree equips you with comprehensive knowledge, skills and experience with more than 150 hours working with students with disabilities. Our curriculum includes areas such as educational law, assessment, instructional technology, co-teaching and literacy instruction. You'll work in a variety of classrooms and learn how to provide support and ensure an equitable classroom for learners with disabilities ranging from mild to severe.

In the special education master's program, you'll experience a faculty-student ratio of approximately 1 to 7, allowing you to personally interact with TROY's dedicated and experienced faculty. With numerous years of experience in special education, our faculty can help you grow as an educator so you can increase your impact.

Careers in Special Education

TROY's program enables you to advance your career in special education in grades K-6 or 6-12. You may also work as an instructional specialist or coach within your school or teach undergraduate courses in special education.

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Joe Johnson

Dr. Joe Johnson, Department Chair of Teacher Education at TROY, earned his Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska in 2011. He taught 13 years in secondary schools and over 13 in higher education. He is TROY's leader for the edTPA, a portfolio-based assessment required for an Alabama teaching license. Dr. Johnson conducts student teaching seminars and teaches graduate-level special education methods courses.

Learn more about our faculty 334-670-3546 jjohnson146840@troy.edu

Dr. Lauren Berlingo

Dr. Lauren Berlingo earned her Ph.D. in special education from Florida Atlantic University. She brings strong experience working with students with moderate/severe disabilities to the TROY special education programs. Dr. Berlingo teaches special education content and methods at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and continues to develop her research agenda.

Learn more about our faculty lberlingo@troy.edu

Dr. Greg Ruediger

Dr. Greg Ruediger is an Associate Professor at TROY's Dothan campus. He has taught at TROY since 2001. Dr. Ruediger holds an Ed.D. in special education and teaching from the University of Florida. In addition to teaching and advising special education degree graduate students, he consults with local school systems to meet student needs, conducts research and writes.

Learn more about our faculty 334-670-3546 gruediger@troy.edu

Special Education Master's Program Options

Choose from Master of Science in Education: Collaborative/Special Education traditional or alternative tracks in K-6 or 6-12 special education.

Grades K-6 - Traditional or Alternative-A

Tailor your degree to special education/collaborative teaching in grades K-6.

Degree Map - Traditional Program
Academic Catalog - Traditional Program
Degree Map - Alternative-A Program
Academic Catalog - Alternative-A Program

Grades 6-12 - Traditional or Alternative-A

Tailor your degree to special education/collaborative teaching in grades 6-12.

Degree Map - Traditional Program
Academic Catalog - Traditional Program
Degree Map - Alternative-A Program
Academic Catalog - Alternative-A Program

Related Programs

Master of Science in Elementary Education Graduate Education Certification Programs Grades 6-12

FAQ About the Master's in Special Education Degree

Learn more about collaborative teaching and our program.

What is a special education teacher?

A special education teacher works with other educators, staff, specialists, and families to provide an equitable learning environment for students with learning, physical or emotional disabilities. They seek to understand the strengths and challenges of each learner. They also share expertise, resources, and feedback with colleagues and engage in ongoing professional development to improve their teaching. Special education teachers are committed to making a difference in their students' lives and their schools.

What can you do with a master's in special education?

A master's in special education qualifies you to work with students who have disabilities at the K-6 or 6-12 grade levels. With further education, careers in special education can also include curriculum developer, educational consultant, adjunct professor and instructional coach. You can also pursue additional advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. or Ed.S. degree.

How long does it take to complete the special education master's program?

At TROY, you can earn your master's degree in special education in approximately 18 months, depending on how many courses you take each term. options.

Master’s in Special Education

Program Info

About the Special Education Master's Program at TROY

A Comprehensive Special Education Master's Degree

A Growing Demand for Special Education Teachers