Master in Teaching: Special Education

with Teacher Certification and Optional Dual Endorsements


AVAILABLE: Mixed Mode
REQUIRED CREDITS: 56-70
LOCATIONS and START DATES: Bellevue, WA: Fall | Everett, WA: Fall | Seattle, WA: Spring | Tacoma, WA: Fall


Is the master's in Teaching (Special Education) program for me?

If you're looking for a satisfying career teaching students with special needs - then CityU's Master in Teaching (Special Education) degree program could be a great fit.

If you already have a bachelor's degree (even if it's in another major) and want to earn your teaching certificate, this program is for you. Choose from one of the these degree program options to become a special education teacher:

When you choose a dual endorsement, you'll earn two endorsements on your teaching certificate. This makes you even more attractive to potential employers.

What will I learn in the master's in Teaching (Special Education) program?

Our M.I.T. Special Ed. program brings together field participation and academics. The combination of coursework and experience in the classroom will prepare you for teaching in the real world. You'll learn how to deal with your students' unique needs, and get the opportunity to make an impact on kids when it matters most.

What can I do with my master's degree in Teaching (Special Education)?

When you successfully finish your Master in Teaching (Special Education) program (and pass any state-required exams), you'll be qualified to teach special needs students in any public or private schools. You'll also qualify for a higher starting salary in most districts than those without a master's degree. Or explore other teaching and academic opportunities:
  • Classroom teaching
  • Substitute teaching
  • Teaching in other states (that honor the Washington residency certificate)

Why CityU?

  • Because you want an education that's relevant to what's happening in the real world, right now.
  • Over 500 educators choose CityU each year to start or advance their career in education.
  • Our faculty teach what they do for a living, not just what's in the book. They're smart, successful people who can help you get there, too.
  • You'll go through the program with the same group of students. We call it cohort learning - it's like a built-in support group.
  • You can get an education without sacrificing your career.

How to get started:

Note: You'll need to pass the Washington Educator Skills Test–Basic (WEST-B) Exam to enter this program. Check out the WEST-B Exam Web site for more info.

Do you have at least a bachelor's degree? If so, you're eligible to apply. Here's how:

  1. Chat with an admissions advisor or call 888.42.CityU
  2. Attend an info session
  3. Get a Master in Teaching Admissions checklist
  4. Apply online
  5. Submit application and MIT portfolio
Special Education Core Requirements (all students) (37)
ESP 525
ESP 528
ESP 529
ESP 535
ESP 540
ESP 542
ETC 501
ETC 506
ETC 509
ETC 513
ETC 514
ETC 519
ETC 534
ETC 680
ETC 683
ETC 690
Literacy Block (all students) (9)
ESP 537
ESP 547
ETC 539
Internship and Student Teaching (all students) (10)
ESP 642
ETC 610
ETC 625
ETC 642
ETC 643
M.I.T. with Special Ed. Only (56)
Take all Core, Literacy Block and Internship / Student Teaching courses listed above.
M.I.T. with Special Ed. and Reading Only (62)
Take all Core, Literacy Block and Internship / Student Teaching courses listed above, plus the following.
ERL 557
ERL 558
M.I.T. with Special Ed. and English Language Learners Emphasis Only (70)
Take all Core, Literacy Block and Internship / Student Teaching courses listed above, plus the following.
ESL 525
ESL 526
ESL 541
ESL 551
ESL 554