School of Health Sciences & Education
Online Master of Special Education, MS.Ed.
Make an Impact on Unique Student Populations with a Master's Degree in Special Education
Saint Francis University’s online Master of Special Education (M.S.Ed.) is designed for educators who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with mild to moderate disabilities. This fully online program equips teachers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to develop and implement effective, individualized learning plans—helping students reach their full potential in inclusive and specialized settings.
Master of Special Education, M.S.Ed
Specializations:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement PK-12
- Supervisor Special Education
Photo: Megan Shingler, 2020 SFU Graduate, Kindergarten Teacher at Spring Cove Elementary School with Jack Grassmyer
Program Snaphot
- PDE-Approved Program: Delivered by caring, compassionate faculty who are passionate about special education.
- 100% Online Delivery: Complete coursework from anywhere, with flexible scheduling for working professionals.
- Clinical Observation Hours: Embedded in select specializations to build hands-on experience
- Rolling Admission: Spring, Summer, & Fall Start Dates
- Fast & Flexible: Complete your degree in as little as 2 years full-time or at your own pace part-time
- Affordable Tuition: $735 per credit (25/26 graduate tuition) Ask us about our affordability initiatives, including scholarships/discounts for REAL Institute member schools!
Curriculum
Online Master of Special Education, MS.Ed.
The demand for special education services is on the rise as children with special needs are diagnosed and enrolled into special education programs earlier in life. The online Master of Special Education degree program at SFU is designed to meet this increasing need.
Program Snapshot
- Delivery Format: Online
- Total Credits: 30 Credits
- Estimated Completion Time: 2 years of full-time study or 2+ years of part-time study
- For course descriptions, licensure information, and admissions requirements, see the course catalog.
Specializations within Degree Path
MS.Ed. candidates can incorporate an Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement or Special Education Supervisory Certificate with the master's program. Students are required to pass all Pennsylvania Department of Education required exams before applying for certification.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement K-12, MS.Ed. (36-39 Credits)
Online with 90 hours of clinical observations
Supervisor Special Education, MS.Ed. (39 Credits)
Online with 360 hours of clinical observations
Experienced Special Education Faculty
SFU’s graduate special education program is led by highly qualified faculty with both advanced degrees and practical K-12 leadership experience. Our faculty team not only possesses strong academic backgrounds but also real-world administrative insight. This blend of scholarly and practical expertise is evident in the courses and mentorship SFU faculty provide. Students benefit from instructors who have been special education teachers and school leaders themselves, bringing credibility and mentorship to the learning experience.
Ready to take the next step?
We’re here to help you succeed. Our team is happy to answer your questions, walk you through the application process, or just chat about your goals
Reach out today — we’d love to hear from you!
Director of the Graduate Education Department
Dr. Melissa Peppetti, Ph.D.
Email: mpeppetti@francis.edu
Call: 814-472-3068
Ms. Morgan Shumaker
Enrollment Advisor
Email mshumaker@francis.edu
Call/Text: 814.395.6095