Master of Science in Special Education

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Special Education Degree program is an advanced academic program which is aimed at developing advanced skills and knowledge of current research in special education and demonstration of the ability to engage in reflective inquiry. In our graduate coursework, we provide candidates with multiple opportunities to build upon their critical thinking and writing skills with those skills being applied in the capstone experience of a comprehensive exam or a thesis. With a Master of Science in Special Education, our graduates have been able to serve in leadership positions in their school districts or agencies, pursue and earn a Doctorate Degree in Education or related fields at top-tiered universities, and teach as part-time lecturers at CSULB and other higher education institutions. The Master's program is comprised of a total of 30 units. Typically students complete the program in 2 years.

Two pathways are currently offered to meet individual needs:

  • Pathway 1 is a fully online program designed for classroom teachers who completed an accredited post-baccalaureate credential program. These students complete 6 core classes and would potentially use 12 post-baccalaureate semester units to reach the 30 unit minimum required for the degree. Students may finish the program in three semesters.  
  • Pathway 2 is designed for credentialed classroom teachers who completed an accredited credential program during their bachelor's degree or non-credentialed education-related professionals. These students also complete 6 core classes as well as an additional 4 courses (12 units) that support their educational interests to reach the 30 unit minimum required for the degree. Students may finish the program in three or four semesters and classes may be offered in a combination of online, hybrid and in-person.

Request to be added to the prospective student list for this program.