M.A. in SPED Programs | Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Skip to Main Content


2025 Minneapolis Commencement information and live stream

page-builder.php
  1. Home
  2. /
  3. M.A. in SPED Programs

Master's Programs in Special Education

Lead change in special education.

Special education teacher shortages continue to impact schools across Minnesota and the nation. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is helping to address this urgent need through our master’s degree programs in SPED — designed to prepare you for high-demand special education roles where you can help more students thrive in inclusive, supportive environments. 

By offering these programs, we put our Lasallian values into action — honoring the dignity of every person, embracing diversity, and standing with those who are marginalized.

Whether you’re pursuing initial licensure, adding a new license, or seeking a lane change with a non-licensure master’s degree, our programs will strengthen your ability to support all learners — while potentially increasing your earning potential. 

Advance your credentials, expand your impact, and open doors to leadership. Choose one of Saint Mary’s flexible programs built to meet today’s educational challenges — and your need for flexibility and support. Apply today!

 

 

Read More

Special Education Graduate Program Comparison

Program M.A. in SPED
Initial License
M.A. in SPED
Non-Licensure
M.A. in SPED
Additional Licensure
Who Should Apply?
  • Tier 1 and 2 provisional licensure candidates
  • Career changers
  • Paraprofessionals
  • Bachelor’s degree holders
  • Educators seeking a master’s degree or lane change
  • Bachelor’s degree holders
  • Licensed Gen Ed/SPED educators
  • Future administrators
  • Tier 3 and 4 teaching license holders
Earned Credential Earn M.A. + initial K-12 Special Education teaching license Earn M.A. without licensure Earn M.A. + additional SPED license
Location / Learning Format Online Online Online
Completion Time 2 years 1 year 1.5 years
Credits 57 30 36
Start Dates Sep • Oct • Jan
Mar • May • Jun
Sep • Oct • Jan
Mar • May • Jun
Sep • Oct • Jan
Mar • May • Jun
Cost $32,775 $17,250 $20,700
Practicum Yes (for licensure) No Yes

 

Solving the special ed teacher shortage.

Kate Nelson, M.A. in Special Education programs director, is passionate about supporting vulnerable learners. She shares how we can address Minnesota’s teacher shortage and help all learners thrive.

Take the first step today!

Connect with us