School of Education
Master of Education – Special Education
Education Master’s Degree Program
This online special education master’s degree is intended to advance the skills of practicing professionals. Students combine science, theory, and hands-on field and classroom experience while building a professional network of their own. Our teacher-mentors have the real-life experience necessary to provide the special education knowledge required in Iowa classrooms today.

Take Me To
Why Should I Earn a Special Education Master’s Degree?
BVU’s two-year online special education master’s degree program can be accomplished alongside your current teaching career. The master’s program provides the knowledge and strategies to put learning into practice in the classroom right away.
You will earn your special education consultant endorsement while earning your master’s in this program. Whether you’re seeking a SPED consultant position or planning a career working in the classroom, this endorsement will help you better understand the curriculum and learning needs of the classroom. You’ll gain the skills to collaborate and consult with teachers and administrators and serve as a leader in your school.
Students choose from four tracks within the special education master’s degree program:
- Instructional Strategist I- Mild to Moderate Disabilities, K-8, 5-12, or Both
- Instructional Strategist II- Behavior Disorder/Learning Disabilities
- Instructional Strategist II- Cognitive/Intellectual Disabilities
- Comprehensive track (includes all endorsements)
Instructional Strategist I- Mild to Moderate (Leading to a K-8, 5-12, or Both Endorsements)
Mild to moderate disabilities, K-8 and 5-12: Teach students with mild to moderate disabilities in resource, inclusion, pull-out, and push-in models with students having exceptionalities in the area of mild to moderate disabilities.
Instructional Strategist II
Option 1: Cognitive: Teach students with significant support needs and cognitive disabilities in grades K-12.
Option 2: Behavior/learning: Teach students with significant support needs, behavior or learning disabilities in grades K-12.
All endorsements are designed for Iowa Board of Educational Examiners approval. Please check with your state for acknowledgement or acceptance of endorsements.
What do I need beforehand?
No GRE required. Save time and money.
- A Bachelor of Arts or Science from an accredited institution, with a 2.75 GPA minimum
- A valid K-12 teaching certificate or license
Why Study Special Education at BVU?
Learn Completely Online
Earn your online special education master’s degree at your convenience with our easy-to-access curriculum through Canvas. With one click, you can view assignments and grades, set up appointments with specialized tutors around the clock, access the student lounge, engage in group discussions, or contact professors. Get the BVU experience on your schedule, wherever you are.

Join a Welcoming Community.
Share Remarkable Experiences.
Karena Haage
Karena had been a paraeducator and substitute for nearly 15 years before she decided to continue her education and become a special education teacher. Four years after choosing the special education field, she now finds herself confidently teaching behavioral disorders at Hawthorne Elementary in Keokuk.
I had to put the pedal to the metal and be determined, but you can definitely do it!
Program Tracks, Courses, & Application Requirements
Elevate your skills as an education leader while preparing for endorsement in your area of specialty. All tracks will earn the special education consultant endorsement.
Mild to Moderate Disabilities K-8 | Mild to Moderate Disabilities 5-12
Significant Support Needs, Cognitive | Significant Support Needs, Behavioral | Comprehensive Track (includes all endorsements)
Your Support Staff
Graduate Education Faculty
Our instructors are committed to helping you build the future in Iowa and beyond.
See Our FacultyNo GRE Required
BVU does not require students to take the GRE for admission — saving you time and money.
Request More InfoEarn a Master’s in One Year
With the Plus One program, you can earn your online special education master’s degree within one year of graduating with your bachelor’s in educational studies.

REQUEST INFORMATION
Explore a Special Education Master’s Degree
Find out more about earning a master’s in education with BVU
