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Gain the knowledge you need for initial certification. Prepare to be an effective educator. Get ready.

It’s never too late to change your career path and pursue your passion to teach and inspire children in a special education classroom — even if you’re not already certified. With St. Joseph’s University’s M.A. in Special Education, students are well-prepared for initial certification in New York State Students with Disabilities (all grades), as well as to receive a New York State Annotation for Severe and Multiple Disabilities (prekindergarten through grade 12).

This research-based, 39-credit program provides students with a better understanding of the theory and practice of several distinct areas, such as assessment, inclusion of family, psychological and social characteristics, and procedures for students with physical impairments.

Special education teachers serve students with mild, moderate and severe disabilities. At St. Joseph’s University, students are exposed to the challenges of teachers in the field of special education, preparing to become leaders while upholding and advancing the principles set forth by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC).

Our students learn from expert faculty with a long and distinguished tradition of preparing teachers for success. This program offers working adults the flexibility they need.  All classes are offered in remote or online formats.

Get ready to understand the freedom, dignity and inherent value of each individual student, as accentuated by the mission of St. Joseph’s University. 

The Brooklyn M.A. in Special Education Experience

No Certification Necessary: This flexible master’s program prepares students to receive their initial certification for teaching students with disabilities in all grades in New York state. 

Area Extensions: St. Joseph’s offers content specialist extensions in earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, social studies, mathematics, English and Spanish.

Be in Demand: New York state needs roughly 180,000 new teachers in the next decade in order to continue meeting workforce needs, according to a 2022 report.