School of Education
Master of Education – Special Education
Education Master’s Degree Program
This online master’s in special education program 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.

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Why should I Earn a Master’s Degree in Special Education?
BVU’s two-year master’s in special education 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. Students also have the ability to choose from five master’s degree tracks in special education:
- 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 four 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 master’s degree in special education at your convenience with our easy-to-access, fully online curriculum. 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.
KATHRYN “KIT” TYYKILA
During a meeting with a professor, I told her that my goal was to eventually go to graduate school and become an early childhood special education teacher. She explained to me that I actually had the opportunity to get it all done at BVU! I am now able to receive my master's degree in special education the year after graduating with my bachelor's degree. By enrolling in the +1 program, I can get everything that I need all from the same place!
Program Tracks, Courses, & Application Requirements
Elevate your skills as an education leader while preparing for endorsement in your area of specialty:
Mild to Moderate Disabilities K-8 | Mild to Moderate Disabilities 5-12
Significant Support Needs, Cognitive | Significant Support Needs, Behavioral | Comprehensive Track (includes all four endorsements)
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 1 Year
With the Plus One program, you can earn your master’s in special education within one year of graduating with your bachelor’s on educational studies.

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