M.A. in Special Education
Meet the Growing Demand for Special Educators
Saint Xavier University's graduate Special Education program is fully approved by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). This program prepares you to work with students with disabilities ranging from mild to profound, equipping you for roles such as special education teacher (K to age 22), coordinator or private practitioner.
FORMAT
In-Person
PROGRAM LENGTH
2* to 2.5 years
*With Professional Educator License (PEL)
CREDIT HOURS
33-45
COST
Tuition Per Credit Hour: $575
Credit Hours to Complete: 33-45
Approximate Cost: $18,975 to $25,875
Why Earn your M.A. in Special Education?
With Illinois LBS-I licensure included, this degree offers career versatility and the opportunity to meet the growing demand for special educators. It's more than a degree -- it's a mission to break barriers to learning and create inclusive, empowering environments.
About the Program
The curriculum combines foundational knowledge with practical skills, covering diagnostic assessment, curriculum modifications, behavior management, and instructional strategies across all content areas. Field experiences provide real-world practice, preparing you to excel in any educational setting.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork, collaborative projects, and expert faculty mentorship. You'll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address complex educational challenges and create meaningful change for students with disabilities.
Graduates will gain expertise in disabilities and education law, differentiate instruction, assess individual learning needs, and deliver adaptive and effective instruction in inclusive classrooms. You'll be ready to advocate for and empower all learners.
Request Information
Want to know more about graduate programs at Saint Xavier University? Please fill out the form below!
Graduate Admission
- 773-298-3053
- Email: graduateadmissionFREESXU
Quick Links
My experience at SXU has provided a strong foundation for my career as a general education teacher. I couldn't be happier with the time I've spent at the University and the knowledge and skills I've gained throughout my undergraduate and graduate programs, which have contributed to my success as a teacher.
Director of Education
Phyllis Cavallone-Jurek
Director of Education
Phone: 773-298-3221
Email: cavallonejurekFREESXU
Meet the Faculty
Phyllis Cavallone-Jurek
Director of Education
Phone: 773-298-3221
Email: cavallonejurek@sxu.edu
Tony DeCesare
Assistant Professor
Phone: 773-298-3222
Email: decesare@sxu.edu
Laura Laskowski-Ferrell
Lecturer
Phone: 773-298-3435
Email: laskowskiferrell@sxu.edu
Kathleen McInerney
Professor
Phone: 773-298-3591
Email: mcinerney@sxu.edu
Julie Reinhart
Professor
Phone: 773-341-5030
Email: jreinhart@sxu.edu
Rania Sadeq
Lecturer
Phone: 773-298-3224
Email: sadeq@sxu.edu
Melissa Stefanko
Lecturer
Phone: 773-298-3225
Email: stefanko@sxu.edu
Vickie Vertucci
Department Assistant
Phone: 773-298-3203
Email: vertucci@sxu.edu