The VCU School of Education online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education programs were ranked #14 nationwide by U.S. News & World Report for 2025 (tie). This recognition reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education that equips educators to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with disabilities.

Our online M.Ed. in Special Education offers three concentrations designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s students:

• Adapted Curriculum (K-12)
• Early Childhood(Birth-5)
• General Education (K-12)

Flexible, Online Pathways for Virginia Special Educators with a Provisional License

VCU School of Education also offers the Special Education K-12 Teaching Graduate Certificate for provisionally licensed special education teachers in Virginia. This 27-credit, fully online program provides the coursework needed to support provisionally licensed special educators working with students with disabilities learning the general curriculum.

With three cohort start dates for this certificate in the Spring, Summer, and Fall, the program is tailored for working educators. This certificate is part of our Educator Rate, which provides a 20% tuition discount for in-state students.  Students who complete this certificate program may earn the M.Ed. in Special Education, General Education by completing as few as four additional courses (12 credits).

The deadline for applications for our M.Ed. in Special Education and the Special Education K-12 Teaching Graduate Certificate are March 1 for a Summer 2025 start and April 1 for a Fall 2025 cohort start.  

Why Choose VCU School of Education:

• 1,000 enrolled students and 18,074 living alums
• Ranked 16th among (public) schools of education in U.S. News & World Report’s (USNWR) 2024 rankings
• Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education programs ranked #14 by U.S. News & World Report for 2025 (tie)
• $152 million in active cumulative research funding
• $44.7 million in new research funding in 2024
• Top 10 national USNWR ranking for research spending per faculty (USNWR)

From tackling educator and counselor shortages to advocating for disability rights and contributing to leadership and workforce development, VCU is a critical resource for educational innovation. Start your journey toward advancing your career in special education today. Learn more about our programs and apply now: Special Education Programs.