Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's M.S. in Education with a specialization in Special Education (Non-Licensure) (Grades K-12) is a non-licensure program online, designed to introduce students to instructional strategies, assessment methods, and learning theories to help enhance their current special education programs. Specialization courses examine methods to tailor educational programs to meet individual needs, improve literacy skills for special needs students, address behavioral issues, collaborate with other educators and with parents, understand types of disabilities, and assume a leadership role in the classroom. Other courses address curriculum development, assessment techniques, professional roles, and educational research methods. Estimated time to completion is about two years; this period may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

What Are the Prerequisites?

You must be a teacher licensed in special education currently employed at an elementary, middle, or high school prior to enrolling in Walden University's M.S. in Education program with a specialization in Special Education (Non-Licensure) (Grades K-12).

What Are the Course Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change; contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. You must complete 12 credits in core courses and 18 credits in the area of specialization to earn Walden University's M.S. in Education degree with a specialization in Special Education (Non-Licensure) (Grades K-12).

Core Course Requirements

• Teacher as Professional
• Designing Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
• Enhancing Learning Through Linguistic and Cultural Diversity
• Action Research for Educators

Specialization Course Requirements

• The Special Educator as Instructional Leader
• The Impact of Disabilities on Learning and Teaching
• Strategic Collaboration in Special Education
• Advanced Instructional Strategies in Special Education
• Literacy Interventions in Special Education
• Advanced Behavioral Interventions in Special Education

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Completing Walden University's M.S. in Education program with a specialization in Special Education (Non-Licensure) (Grades K-12) could help you assume greater responsibilities in your school, as well as apply new strategies in your classroom. You might also choose to pursue new opportunities in other learning institutions. You could assess programs and students, design curricula, build teams to address the needs of special education students, or manage programs designed to address behavioral issues among students with special needs.

Walden offers both state-approved educator licensure programs as well as programs and courses that do not lead to licensure or endorsements. Prospective students must review their state licensure requirements prior to enrolling. For more information, please refer to www.WaldenU.edu/educlicensure.

Prospective Alabama students: Contact the Teacher Education and Certification Division of the Alabama State Department of Education at 1-334-242-9935 or www.alsde.edu to verify that these programs qualify for teacher certification, endorsement, and/or salary benefits.

Prospective Washington state students are advised to contact the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at 1-360-725-6275 or prof.educ@k12.wa.us to determine whether Walden's programs in the field of education are approved for teacher certification or endorsements in Washington state. Additionally, teachers are advised to contact their individual school district as to whether this program may qualify for salary advancement.