Special Education Student
College of Education & Liberal Arts

Master's Degrees in Special Education

Follow Your Calling to Become a Special Educator With a Graduate-Level Special Education Degree

Wilmington University’s special education master's degree programs often attract candidates with a deep capacity for compassion who can also “creatively think on their feet” — beneficial qualities for teachers of children with exceptionalities. A variety of degree program options allow candidates to choose which path best aligns with their specific career goals, including licensure vs. non-licensure.


Experienced Educators Instruct Content- and Experience-Rich Courses

Under the direction of engaged, experienced special educators, you will learn proven-effective, research-based practices that will help you make ethical decisions and meet the varying needs of your individual students. Experiential learning in real classrooms makes WilmU College of Education and Liberal Arts graduates job-ready from Day One.

Accredited Special Education Programs That Adhere to the Highest Standards

WilmU’s College of Education and Liberal Arts is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) under NCATE Standards (National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education) and offers programs that are recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children.

Master’s in Special Education Programs Tailored to Your Career Goals

Programs are available for individuals seeking initial certification/state licensure; K-12 classroom teachers seeking instructional strategies to provide individualized instruction in their classrooms; and other educators who are not seeking licensure/certification.


The Masters in Special Education program at Wilmington University is CAEP Accredited The College of Education is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.


Required courses and total credits vary based on previous coursework and degree selected.
11-18 courses 33-54 total credits

$1,611 per course

Cost of a typical 3-credit graduate degree course.
Wilmington University tuition is based on cost-per-credit.
You only pay for the courses you need to complete your master's degree.

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Learn About Our Impressive Class of Graduates

WilmU COELA graduates are consistently recognized as education leaders.

View Impressive Grads

WilmU Industry and Career Outlook

Graduates of WilmU College of Education and Liberal Arts programs are well-prepared for their careers.

100% of Principals/Supervisors indicate WilmU’s graduates are most prepared in designing instruction/learning experiences that account for individual differences and ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

91% of Principals indicate that WilmU’s teacher preparation programs prepare graduates to actively pursue, reflect upon, and use professional development opportunities, coaching, and/or mentoring to improve teaching practice.

91% of Principals indicate that graduates from WilmU’s teacher preparation program are fully prepared to work effectively with students from diverse communities, different cultures, and those living in poverty.


Teacher Salaries

According to the National Education Association, teachers in Delaware earn:*

$60,214 average salary

$41,639 average starting salary

Teacher Salaries by State can be found here. Applicants for positions in Delaware should visit Join Delaware Schools. To apply for positions outside of Delaware, applicants should visit the State Department of Education.

*Salary schedules vary by school and district because they include both state and local school district funds.

I began the Master's in Special Education program as a way to help myself more effectively advocate for my child. As I progressed through the program and participated in cooperative learning with my classmates and staff, I became overwhelmingly inspired to become a teacher. Now I am teaching in my dream district. I love my job and owe much of my happiness in my new career to the staff and my fellow students that inspired me at Wilmington University. — Lisa H., M.Ed. in Special Education
Special Education Testimonial Lisa Hertzog

Learn More About the Admissions Process
and How Easy It Is To Start Your Special Education Program.

Program Admission Apply Now