Master of Education in Special Education
Multiple Specialization Tracks Available
Typical Length 2 years
Delivery Online
Nationally Accredited
RSVP to attend our virtual information session that will cover updates and information related to the MEd in Special Education and available tracks: January 13, 2025 at 4:30pm (Zoom link will be shared with those who submit the RSVP)
The MEd in Special Education is an online program designed for educators and professionals who are passionate about making a meaningful impact in special education. Through core courses, you’ll explore key topics while gaining hands-on experience evaluating and sharing research. The program emphasizes advocacy for individuals with disabilities, collaboration with educational and family partners, and provides opportunities to build a strong network of peers and professionals. You’ll also work closely with your faculty advisor to tailor the program to your unique background, interests, and career goals.
This program is comprised of three required core courses (9 credits), a capstone project/paper (1 credit), and seven elective courses depending on chosen specialization track (21 credits). Specialization track options include:
- Leadership & Research
- Applied Behavior Analysis*
- Interdisciplinary
*Note: The ABA-Track program may include additional credits (4-12) required for completing fieldwork supervision requirements
Please review the sections below for more details.
Tracks
The leadership and research specialization is ideal for those looking to take the next step in their careers as leaders in special education or disability services. This track lets you explore key topics in special education through the lens of an educational leader while building valuable skills in evaluating and sharing research. Whether you want to lead in your school or another education-related setting, this specialization helps you make a real impact.
Leadership & Research Coursework (21 credits)
- SPED 641d: Seminar in Issues in Special Education (Foundations)
- SPED 641f: Seminar in Issues in Special Education (Cultural & Linguistic Diversity)
- SPED 641g: Seminar in Issues in Special Education (Evidence-Based Practices)
- SPED 643: Seminar in Special Education Leadership
- SPED 688: Research Practicum in Special Education
- SPED 629: Clinical Practices (Fall I or Spring II), or two elective* courses
*Candidates who graduated from the UHM College of Education Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program in Special Education may be eligible to double count one course to fulfill one elective.
*The ABA program is currently 31 credits. However, we are awaiting approval on a modification to make it a 36-44 credit program to accommodate fieldwork requirements needed for certification. We anticipate this approval to take place by the time the program begins in Summer 2025. Complete the Request More Info form to receive updates and notifications.
The Applied Behavior Analysis program is ideal for individuals seeking to advance their careers in behavior analysis or disability services. This program allows you to explore foundational and advanced principles of behavior change while developing essential skills in assessment, intervention, and ethical practice. Whether you aim to lead in clinical settings, schools, or community-based organizations, this program equips you with the tools to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.
The Master in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Track is a 3-for-1 opportunity to meet the degree, behavior-analytic coursework, and supervision requirements for Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) examination eligibility. Candidates will need to pass the national exam before they can be certified.
Applied Behavior Analysis Coursework (21 credits + 1 credit orientation)
SPED 501C: Program orientation (1)
SPED 603: Principles of Behavior (3)
SPED 630: Positive Behavior Support (3)
SPED 632: Language/Communication Intervention-Communication Disorders (3)
SPED 641H: Seminar in Issues in Special Education: Single-Case Research (3)
SPED 671: Advanced Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
SPED 672: Collaboration and Supervision in Applied Behavior Analysis (3)
SPED 673: Ethics and Professional Conduct (3)
*Applied Behavior Analysis Fieldwork (4-12 credits)
SPED 678: Applied Behavior Analysis Fieldwork (1-3 each semester)
Fieldwork is a requirement for the ABA program and will vary based on individual supervision needs. Students enrolled in ABA fieldwork have two supervision options. If you have an on-site supervisor and only wish to attend group supervision sessions through UH Mānoa, you can enroll in 1 credit. However, if you require full supervision from UH Mānoa, including both individual and group supervision, you must enroll in 3 credits.
The Interdisciplinary Track is not admitting new students at this time. Please contact spedinfo@hawaii.edu to discuss alternative available options.
As of 2024, the Department of Special Education is no longer offering the Literacy Specialist Track. As an alternative option, please refer to the following programs:
- Reading Interventionist Program (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate)