M.A. in Special Education FAQs

Have Questions? You Don't Even Need to Raise Your Hand.

Good students ask great questions, and good teachers should, too. We are sure you have many questions about the Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Master of Arts in Special Education (MASE) and why this particular program is right for you. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions, and you are encouraged to ask many more by calling 877-308-9954 to speak with an enrollment counselor. Or, you can request more information, and we will reach out to you.

Is this program accredited?
Yes. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Will my degree say that it is from an online program?
No. The degree you earn online from Saint Mary's University is identical to the degree offered on campus.

Is this program only for those interested in becoming special education teachers?
Not at all. As more students with special needs are placed in mainstream classrooms, special education knowledge will benefit every teacher in grades K-12. The skills you learn in Saint Mary's University's online MASE program will help you connect with learners of all ability levels to create a more inclusive classroom environment where everyone can thrive.

Are there set times when I can start the program?
You may apply for admission to Saint Mary’s online Master of Arts in Special Education program at any time. After you are admitted, you may begin taking online classes at the start of any semester: spring, summer or fall.

How long does the program take?
Non-licensure seekers will complete a minimum of 36 credits of program work. If you stay on the recommended course schedule of two online classes per consecutive semester, you will complete your Special Education coursework in two years. Enrollment counselor are available to help you stay on track. For those seeking additional or initial licensure the timeline for the program will be extended based upon prerequisite coursework, field experience/student teaching, testing, and the number of licensure preparation areas you are pursuing.

Can I transfer credits from another university and graduate program?
You may transfer a maximum of six semester credits earned before admittance upon recommendation of the program director and with the approval of the dean. Your transfer credits are subject to both graduate school and programmatic criteria.

Is there a campus residency requirement, or is the program entirely online?
For those who are not seeking licensure, the program is fully online and you do not need to attend Saint Mary’s ground campuses. Those seeking initial or additional licensure preparation will need to complete coursework at the Twin Cities or Winona campuses, plus field experience/student teaching in K-12 school settings.

Will I need to complete a practicum as a part of this program?
If you will be completing the licensure preparation portion of this program, you do need to meet the requirements of Minnesota which includes 180 hours of practicum (for additional licensure seekers) or 15 weeks of student teaching (for those seeking their first teaching license). Saint Mary’s has a placement office that will guide you in identifying practicum and student teaching opportunities.

Will I be required to attend online classes during set times?
No. As long as you submit your assignments by the time they are due, you can work and study when it is most convenient to you.

I don't have an iPad. Is one required to pursue this degree?
All coursework can be completed through Saint Mary’s interactive website, but every online Saint Mary's University student is issued an iPad at no additional cost. You will then have the world's most innovative online learning experience literally at your fingertips.

Is this a self-paced program?
No, these are instructor led courses that may have online course meetings at the beginning of the course and/or weekly. Course activities need to be finished by the established due dates.

What are the admissions requirements?
All the information about eligibility and admissions requirements can be found on the Admissions page.

What type of support is available to me? What if I have a question about homework or need help with a technical issue?
All of the support systems available to on-campus students at Saint Mary's University are available for online learners as well. Professors are just a phone call or email away, and every online Saint Mary's University student is paired with a dedicated student services coordinator who will make sure your educational and professional goals stay on track. Technical support is available to online students 24/7.

Is financial aid available?
Absolutely. Many different types of financial aid are available to those who qualify. To discuss tuition rates and a number of different financial aid options, call 877-308-9954 to speak with an enrollment counselor.

How do I get started?
It’s easy! Your journey to a more rewarding teaching career and a more inclusive classroom environment starts by calling 877-308-9954 to speak with an enrollment counselor. Or, you can request more information, and we’ll reach out to you. If you already know Saint Mary's University of Minnesota is the right place to earn your online Master of Arts in Special Education degree, go ahead and begin the Online Application Process.