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What is Special Education

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Special education definition is a distinct area of education designed to offer customized learning experiences to youngsters who have emotional, cognitive, social, or physical difficulties. Educators in this domain must undergo specific training and obtain credentials to competently teach learners with unique needs. Individuals who successfully finish the specialized training are expected to possess elevated levels of empathy, tolerance, and inventive thinking, given the intricate nature of instructing pupils with varied challenges.

Popular Courses in Special Education

Special Education courses prepare educators to offer inclusive educational experiences for individuals with disabilities. The curriculum includes methods for teaching and nurturing students who require specific educational support. 

For Bachelor’s:

  • B.Sc in Special Education
  • B.Sc. in Childhood Education (Childhood Special Education)
  • B.Sc. in Early Childhood (Early Childhood Special Education)
  • B.S in Special Education (Teacher of Students with Moderate Disabilities and/ or Teacher of Students with Severe Disabilities )

For Master’s:

  • M.S. in Special Education
  • M.A in Special Education
  • M.A. in Special and Inclusive Education
  • M.A. in Early Childhood Education – Special Education
  • M.A. in Bilingual Special Education Studies
  • M.Ed. in Special Education
  • M.Ed. in Early Childhood Special Education
  • M.Ed. in High Incidence Disabilities with Special Education Teacher Certification
  • EdM in Special Education

Best Universities for Special Education

Here are some of the best universities for a special education degree:

UNIVERSITY NAME

Rankings

PROGRAMS OFFERED

John Hopkins University,

Baltimore, Maryland
  • #24. World University Ranking. - QS 2023
  • Education of Students with Autism and Other Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Graduate Certificate
  • Educational Leadership for Independent Schools, Graduate Certificate
  • Gifted Education, Graduate Certificate
  • Leadership in Technology Integration (Online), Graduate Certificate
  • Applied Behavior Analysis, Post–Master's Certificate
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Post–Master's Certificate

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS
  • #2 in Special Education
  • #18 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Autism spectrum disorder (Online M.S.E.)
  • Early childhood unified (Birth-K) (M.S.E.)

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR
  • #3 in Special Education
  • #14 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Minor in Special Education (U.G.)
  • Certificate in Foundations of Special Education (U.G.)
  • Master's Licensure K–12 Endorsement

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL
  • #4 in Special Education
  • #18 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Doctor of Education (with a Major in Special Education)
  • Master of Education (with a Major in Special Education)

University of Texas--Austin

Austin, TX
  • #5 in Special Education (tie)
  • #16 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Master's (M. Ed., M.A.) and doctoral (Ph. D.) degrees with a particular focus on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (A&DD)

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA
  • #5 in Special Education (tie)
  • #16 in Best Education Schools

 
  • B.S.Ed. - Bachelor of Science in Education
  • M.T. in Special Education (Charlottesville)
  • M.T. in Special Education (Online)

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL
  • #7 in Special Education
  • #36 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Infancy & Early Childhood Special Education 
  • Learning & Behavior Specialist I (LBSI)
  • Learning & Behavior Specialist II (LBSII) in Multiple Disabilities

 

University of Minnesota--Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN
  • #8 in Special Education
  • #25 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with Academic Behavioral Strategist (A.B.S.) licensure
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) licensure

University of Washington

Seattle, WA
  • #9 in Special Education
  • #11 in Best Education Schools 

 
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (MEd)
  • Early Childhood Special Education (MEd/Cert)

University of Southern Queensland, Australia

86th by Times Higher Education World Young University Rankings
  • Graduate Certificate of Education, Special and Inclusive Education
  • Graduate Diploma of Education, Commonwealth, Special and Inclusive Education

The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

4th in Asia and 21st in the World the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023
  • Bachelor of Arts (Honors) in Special Education

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Scope of Special Education?

The need for educators, particularly those with expertise in special education, is increasing in the United States. This trend is contributing to improved compensation, perks, and diverse career paths. Those who complete their studies in this field also have the opportunity to serve in roles such as advisors, project managers, or leaders in nonprofit organizations. 

Is Special Education Easy to Study?

The perception of the difficulty level of special education varies. Students must learn various terms and complete clinical experiences and student teaching.

Which is the best country to pursue Special Education courses?

The U.S. is often considered the top choice for international students due to its globally recognized universities. 

Which subject is best for Special Education?

A graduate degree combining research and special education is often considered the best academic path, offering a broad understanding of educational strategies, legislation, and support services for individuals with disabilities. 

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