The first requirement in earning a master's degree in special education is to complete a certain number of credits or units. This includes core courses, the required courses for all seekers of this degree, as well as other special education courses selected from a list of the university's available courses and preferably in conjunction with an academic adviser. Each university has its own specific requirements. For example, at San Francisco University, students are required to take the course Seminar in Educational Research and at the University of Houston, the course Introduction to Educational and Psychological Measurement is mandated.
Many universities in the United States offer master's degree in special education programs. However, the programs may offer different areas of emphasis or other special considerations. At San Francisco State University, students may choose and study an area of emphasis, such as visual impairments, moderate to severe disabilities or guide dog mobility. At the University of Houston, students may choose an emphasis in special education or educational diagnostics. At the University of Oregon, students have the option to combine a master's degree in special Education with a teaching licensure program.
The final requirement for earning the special education master's degree is to complete a culminating experience. Depending on the specific university's available options, this may include the writing and defense of a master's thesis under the supervision of an adviser, an internship, comprehensive written and oral exams, a field study placement or a creative work project.
A master's degree in special education is a qualification for a number of public and private sector jobs in special education and other work with people with disabilities. Some examples include: elementary special education teacher, secondary special education teacher, college special education instructor, educational diagnostician, special education consultant, special education researcher, guide dog school instructor, sign language instructor, specialist at a foundation for individuals with disabilities, employee at a community agency or clinic, and employee at a residential facility.