Special Education Degree GPA Requirements | Learn.org

If you're planning to pursue a special education degree, you may be wondering what to expect from your degree program. Specifically, you might like to know the minimum GPA you'll need to fulfill degree requirements and graduate.

The GPA you need to earn will vary depending on where you attend school and your degree level. Generally speaking, however, you will need to earn at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA. Specific schools, courses, or programs may have higher GPA requirements.

Keep reading for further information about the GPA needed to meet the special education general curriculum requirements.

What Is a Special Education Degree?

A special education degree program is a specific program of study. This is usually a bachelor's degree in special education, or sometimes a master's, that prepares you to teach children with learning disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder. It typically comprises both classroom or online coursework and hands-on field experience.

Learners in special education programs complete various general education courses, electives, and program-specific courses. Topics may include creating individualized education programs (IEPs), using assistive technology, and teaching early childhood or elementary education students.

These programs may last anywhere from one to four years, or longer, depending on the degree level and whether you study part-time or full-time. They usually comprise 30 to 120 credit hours.

GPA Requirements for Admission into a Special Education Program

Various schools may have different program requirements affecting the necessary GPA you must maintain. Let's look at the different types of special education programs and what you can expect, in terms of the GPA requirements for each.

Minimum GPA for Undergraduate Programs

Undergraduate programs in special education may include associate degrees designed to transfer to four-year programs and bachelor's degrees. You must earn at least 60 credit hours for an associate degree and at least 120 hours for a bachelor's degree.

Almost every school requires students in associate and bachelor's degree programs to maintain at least a 2.0 GPA. Not only is this necessary for graduation, but it is also usually a requirement for receiving financial aid.

Schools reserve the right to require a higher minimum GPA as they see fit. Many schools require students in certain programs to maintain a higher GPA, or at least earn higher grades in major-specific courses. Many education programs, for example, require students to earn a 2.75 GPA. Check with your school to find out about overall GPA requirements and if any specific requirements apply to special education students.

GPA for Graduate Programs (MEd in Special Education)

The most common type of graduate special education degree is the Master of Education (MEd) in special education. Some schools also offer doctoral programs such as the Doctor of Philosophy in education and the Doctor of Education. Master's programs are typically at least 30 credit hours each, while doctorate programs may range from 60 to 90 credit hours, or more, depending on various factors.

Many schools require a 3.0 cumulative GPA for admission into graduate-level programs. Some may require a minimum GPA of 2.5, while others may require a GPA as high as 3.5. Still, other schools don't have hard and fast GPA requirements.

Students are generally expected to maintain these grades throughout grad school. Again, it's a good idea to check with your school specifically to learn more about GPA requirements or recommendations.

How GPA Affects Your Program and Future Opportunities

Maintaining a good GPA isn't just necessary for graduating and maintaining financial aid eligibility while in school. Your GPA can also affect other parts of your education and future career prospects. Let's take a closer look.

GPA Requirements for Student Teaching and Practicum

Most special education programs include field experiences like student teaching, practicum, or capstone requirements. While a specific GPA may not be directly required to participate in fieldwork, students must maintain a minimum GPA throughout their academic career to be able to participate in these experiences. If they do not, they may be placed on probation or dismissed from their special education program before completing the fieldwork components.

GPA and Licensure in Special Education

Some states may require aspiring special education teachers to graduate with a minimum GPA to receive state licensure or certification. While this isn't always the case, it's important to understand your state's requirements to obtain special education teaching licensure beforehand so you'll know what to expect when it's time to get your license.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Based on GPA

Throughout your academic experiences, you'll find that many forms of financial aid require you to maintain a minimum GPA. College can be expensive, so most students rely on financial assistance in various forms, from scholarships to grants. For example, if you qualify for a No InterWiki reference defined in properties for Wiki called "special education degree scholarship[https"!, maintaining a minimum GPA may be necessary to receive these funds.

Other Special Education Admission Requirements

GPA shouldn't be your only consideration when applying to a special education degree program. Your program of choice may have other admission requirements too.

In addition to a minimum GPA, your program may require you to submit official high school or college transcripts and standardized test scores. You may also need to submit an admissions essay, letters of recommendation, or a resume. Always check with your school's admissions office to find out exactly what is required to enter the school.

Earn Your Special Education Degree Today

If you're ready to start your special education career path, explore the various programs available at schools right here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools to find out how you can get started today.