Testing Waivers
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, GRE, GMAT and MTEL testing has temporarily been waived from the application requirements for a number of our graduate programs through spring 2026.
Choose the program option best for you
This MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed for those who wish to qualify for an initial license as a teacher of students with moderate disabilities (PK-8 or 5-12) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.
The MEd program leads to a master's degree. It is designed to help teachers upgrade their knowledge and skills in the field of special education.
Eligible students can apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.
The Initial Licensure Only program does not lead to an academic degree. It is designed for individuals seeking an initial license as a teacher of students with moderate disabilities (PK-8 or 5-12) and/or training in special education.
While this program is not eligible for financial aid, the MEd programs are.
Graduate Application Process
Graduate Programs in Special Education Application Process
Application Materials
- $50 non-refundable application fee
- Official transcript or transcript evaluation
- Three references
- English Proficiency, if applicable for international applicants
- Statement of purpose
- A sample of academic writing
- Take a position and support that position with evidence and appropriate citations. You may use a paper, or excerpt of a paper, that you have already written or write something new for the admissions committee. If you write something new, it is suggested you explore an issue special education is facing today. Ideas include but are not limited to inclusion, response to intervention, new autism guidelines, eligibility determination, over-representation in special education, self-advocacy, role of parents in the program, etc. Appropriate length is approximately two pages with citations.
- Graduate programs in special education do not require the GRE or MAT.
Additional Requirements
| MTEL | Educator License | Prerequisites | |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.Ed. Initial License Track | Passing scores on Communication and Literacy reading and writing subtest | n/a | Grades of merit from an accredited college or university, with an arts and sciences major, or a major appropriate to the teaching license sought. Students who have not previously taken any education courses may need to complete introductory coursework that does not count toward the degree requirements. |
| M.Ed. Advanced Studies Track | n/a | Initial license in Special Education issued by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts | Grades of merit from an accredited college or university, with an arts and sciences major, or a major appropriate to the teaching license sought. |
| License Only - Initial | Passing scores on Communication and Literacy reading and writing subtest | n/a | Grades of merit from an accredited college or university, with an arts and sciences major, or a major appropriate to the teaching license sought |
Application Deadlines
- Applications accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed once complete.
- The MEd, special education initial licensure, MEd, special education advanced studies, and licensure-only special education programs do not support international students in F or J status due to program modality and/or part-time status. Please contact graduate admissions to verify which programs are suitable.