--- title: Master of Special Education date: 2024-12-05T11:45:00-06:00 author: Jordan Eshelman canonical_url: "https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-degree-master-of-special-education" section: Landing Pages --- # Master of Special Education ![](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2023-10-19_000316_2026-01-16-163559_lqji.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=43&f=webp&c=554dd397&v=a8c9401b4a11e07a7d03f1446a0830a331f8192c1c6ddb20da4661dab5fe6f76) ![]() ![]()## On This Page - [Program Overview](#toc1284164) - [Program Options](#toc1284854) - [Cost](#toc1285199) - [Frequently Asked Questions](#toc1293878) - [Request More Information](#toc1284856) ## Program Introduction Dordt University's Master of Special Education (MSpEd) program focuses on providing a Christ-centered education and is 100% online. Plus, Dordt's MSpEd program is one of the most affordable in the country. The coursework is collaborative, and Dordt's engaging faculty provide practical applications to the concepts they teach. ## Program Overview The Master of Special Education program provides practical, hands-on learning experiences to assess and address learning and behavioral difficulties. The program consists of 11 courses in a 30-semester hour specialization that prepares the teacher or administrator to be a competent leader in special education roles. A typical plan of study includes one course every fall semester and spring semester and three courses every summer for two full years. A slower pace can reduce summer work to two courses in each of three summers. Optional courses in Applied Behavior Analysis may be added to qualify for the BCBA certification exam. ## Program Options [ Master's ![Female teacher listens to her student](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2023-10-19_000306.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=eabfa60a&v=7ba2d10da00fb0e2a0d5a739b4069f566964dc930ef309c0dd23299c08120a68) ### Master of Special EducationInstructional Strategist 1 Online, Specialization ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/master-of-special-education/instructional-strategist-1) [ Master's ![Female professor speaking](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2022-09-27_001514.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=519b2ea7&v=283caa159c4a6ce9afd440cbf9af63835b5e537a531aa11aefb917bda1f3811e) ### Master of Special EducationInstructional Strategist 1 & 2 - ALL Online, Specialization ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/master-of-special-education/instructional-strategist-ii) [ Master's ![Female teacher helps student](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2022-09-27_001513.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=a36abb51&v=6d1c2493bb3a07a765de64526dccfdca9d8f1f1164d1001c45c16ebfb2918622) ### Master of Special EducationInstructional Strategist 1 & 2 - ALL + Initial Licensure Online, Specialization ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/master-of-special-education/instructional-strategist-ii-initial-licensure) ## Cost ### Tuition and Fees - Courses: $405/credit - One-time Technology Fee: $100 Graduate courses taken for graduate credit are worth three credits. To learn more, visit our [tuition and fees page](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-tuition-financial-aid-funding-options). ### Financial Aid In an effort to make graduate education at Dordt available to as many people as possible, program costs are kept as reasonable as possible. Financial aid in the form of federal loan programs is available. **Students who wish to apply online should go to www.fafsa.ed.gov.** For more information, contact Harlan Harmelink in the Financial Aid Office at (712) 722-6082. **The Dordt University Federal ID is #001859.** ##### Dordt University Donor-Funded Annual Scholarships Donor-funded scholarships vary in dollar amounts and in recipient selection criteria. Typically, the application process includes an application form and recommendation and a scholarship committee that selects the recipients. Students may contact the Office of Graduate Studies (grad@dordt.edu) with inquiries. - **Partner Scholarship for Vocate Members** Members of [Vocate](https://vocate.ca/membership/) are eligible for a $100 scholarship per term that applies to any of Dordt's online degree programs. Through its mission to provide expert and professional employment services, Vocate supports employees and builds healthy workplaces in Christian schools in Ontario, Canada. - **Partner Scholarship for Teach 4 the Heart+ Members** Members of [Teach 4 the Heart+](https://teach4theheart.com/teach-4-the-heart-plus/) are eligible for a $100 scholarship per term that applies to any of Dordt's online degree programs. - **Partner Scholarship for Teaching for Transformation (TfT) School Employees** Employees at [TfT schools](https://www.teachingfortransformation.org/) are eligible for a $100 scholarship per term that applies to any of Dordt's online degree programs. - **Partner Scholarship for Dual Credit partner schools** Teachers at [partnering dual credit schools](https://www.dordt.edu/partner-program) are eligible for a $100 scholarship per term that applies to any of Dordt's online degree programs. Interested in creating a partnership between Dordt University and your school so you can receive a partner scholarship? Contact [Joe.Bakker@dordt.edu](https://www.dordt.edu/people/joe-bakker). ![]() ### Become a Defender Today! [Apply Now](https://www.dordt.edu/admissions-and-aid/apply-now) ## Frequently Asked Questions ##### How long will the program take? All of Dordt's graduate programs in education are designed to be complete in two years. However, you can also opt for a longer and more relaxed pace. ##### What will my class schedule look like? Your advisor will work with you to establish a schedule that will allow you to live your life and also get your degree. ##### Can I complete this program while working a full-time job? Yes! This program is part-time and 100% online, allowing for you to work and study, no problem. ##### Can I participate if I don't live in the United States? Of course! We have had students from across the globe - no matter where, we'll work with you. ##### Where do I apply? Right [here](https://www.dordt.edu/admissions-and-aid/apply-now?token=h6nMLXdP119pjNLK8GVCCfvGSjgmss39&x-craft-live-preview=8c9bebce79d9805b693b1c2b97c187e880dd483a10ead5cbfe9297a7aa1a389cbzfpcqsknc)! ![](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/graduate-studies.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=40&h=25&c=226fecfb&v=735a81bf0751a030951731709c8ebed4147baf4305052d2f67047280996d7d64) ## More About Graduate Programs at Dordt [### Graduate Programs at Dordt University Meet the increasing needs of your community and advance your career with a graduate degree from Dordt University, the Christian university known for student engagement. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-programs-at-dordt-university) [### Graduate Admissions Requirements & Application Tips Explore tips and admissions requirements so you can confidently take the next step in your educational journey. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-admissions-requirements-application-tips) [### Supportive Learning Environment & Faculty Mentorship Your education is about more than gaining knowledge—it's about being part of a Christ-centered community where you are supported every step of the way. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/supportive-learning-environment-faculty-mentorship) [### Program Flexibility & Delivery Options You're balancing work, family, and personal commitments with the pursuit of graduate education. That’s why our graduate programs are flexible, accessible, and tailored to fit your lifestyle. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/program-flexibility-delivery-options) [### Graduate School Experience & Student Life Graduate student life at Dordt is built on strong relationships, with classmates and faculty providing support through collaboration, mentorship, and shared faith. Even in an online setting, students form meaningful connections. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-school-experience-student-life) [### Career Advancement & Return on Investment Dordt’s high-quality education and affordable tuition ensure that students see real value in their degrees, with increased job prospects and earning potential. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/career-advancement-return-on-investment) [### Graduate Career Support & Alumni Network Dordt University offers comprehensive career support for graduate students, including personalized advising, job search resources, and networking opportunities. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-career-support-alumni-network) [### Graduate Program Specializations Dordt graduate programs offer flexible tracks that allow you to focus on the areas that matter most to your future. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-programs-specializations) [### Graduate Tuition & Financial Aid Pursuing a graduate degree is a valuable investment in your future, and at Dordt University, we’re committed to making that investment as accessible as possible. Learn More ](https://www.dordt.edu/graduate-tuition-financial-aid-funding-options) ## Request More Information Loading... ## Related Programs Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you. You can also view the [programs page](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs) to keep exploring your options. [ Master's ![Male teacher helps student on his computer](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2023-10-17_000263.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=3cd70a2a&v=8584367bf6c44464b254127f78c37f49ffbb0e28e6feed0b55fc1a936ed1fd00) ### Master of Education Online ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/master-of-education) [ Master's ![](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2023-24/MAT-page.png?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=57dee35d&v=e0e85f780cbd8f9e616a3072891d3f517777426dec9236ad26f2874b028518b6) ### Master of Arts in Teaching Online ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/master-of-arts-teaching) [ Bachelor's ![Male teaches his students](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2023-10-17_000261_2024-06-26-190010_zscj.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=59&h=39&c=c542519b&v=dfcdc37941bd4c42840ebac356e72d0041646b115b83f014064a0ea331a9e833) ### Education Major ](https://www.dordt.edu/academics/programs/education-ba) *No events are currently scheduled* ![](https://d3evso2dxyohou.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/2022-23/News/campusdroneshots5.22.23-0143.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=50&f=webp&c=1e06cc19&v=d829198b0b6f2412cf5a467a3363ec6449da00d1fad3b3576f7148c8a93ce184) <![CDATA[YII-BLOCK-BODY-END]]>