Special Education

The NC State University Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Special Education prepares candidates to teach in K-12 schools in the U.S. Graduates earn both an initial North Carolina teaching license in Special Education: General Curriculum and a master’s degree. In the MAT curriculum, teachers grow in knowledge and impact while learning how to integrate practice with theory in today’s culturally rich and technology-enhanced classrooms.

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The MAT program in Special Education is designed for those who hold a bachelor’s degree but do not hold a valid North Carolina teaching license. The MAT program can be completed online using distance education courses. Students can receive placements close to their place of residency and can complete the program on a residency license.

A total of 30 credit hours are required to complete the MAT program in Special Education. Students are allowed to enroll with either part- or full-time status and can begin their studies in the spring, fall, or summer academic terms.

Eligibility

Applicants must have:

• Bachelor’s degree from a college or university that holds regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting agency such as SACS;
• 3.0 GPA or higher in prior work, as required by the Graduate School.

Up to 12 credit hours with a grade of “B” or better can be transferred into a master’s degree program (either completed as an NDS student or at another institution).

* Please note that the Master of Arts in Teaching is a Distance Education program, so students on university-sponsored visas are not eligible for this program. Please contact the Office of International Services with any questions.

Plan of Study

MAT participants can undertake this program full-time or part-time. Depending on the content area, the program is 30 credit hours, including a full-semester student teaching experience. Most students complete the program in 1-2 years.

Career Prospects

Special education teachers are best equipped for success when they receive instruction in teaching methodologies, assessment, assistive technology, special education law, and planning and curriculum specific to children with special needs. The MAT in Special Education also delves into diagnosis and related accommodations and prescriptive strategies unique to children with exceptionalities, preparing graduates for successful careers working in special education.