UNC is a leader in preparing educators, researchers, and advocates who support students with diverse learning needs. Our programs combine strong academic foundations with extensive field experience, giving you the skills to make a lasting difference in schools and communities. Programs include Undergraduate and graduate licensure pathways for becoming a special education teacher. Master’s degrees with specializations in areas such as intervention, gifted & talented, and collaborative teaching. Doctoral programs for those pursuing leadership, administration, or research in special education.

Our Undergraduate Programs

This Bachelor of Arts program offers a robust blend of liberal arts coursework and specialized training in special education. You’ll develop the knowledge and practices needed to teach diverse learners—emphasizing literacy, mathematics, technology integration, individual differences, collaboration, assessment, and inclusive methods.

Early Childhood Education student raising his hand in the classroom

This program is designed for undergraduate students who desire a special education minor to accompany any major or teacher licensure program other than a special education program.

Student teacher working with a young student at Chappelow Arts Magnet School.

Our Graduate Programs

Our graduate programs in Special Education prepare educators, specialists, and leaders to create inclusive learning environments and improve outcomes for students with diverse needs. With flexible online and hybrid options, you can continue your career while earning your master’s, endorsement, or doctoral degree from a nationally recognized leader in educator preparation.

Master’s in Early Childhood Special Education prepares educators to support young children—from birth through age 8—across a wide range of learning needs and abilities. Grounded in an inclusive approach, the program equips you to work in both Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education settings. You’ll gain expertise in family collaboration, evidence-based instruction, child development, and effective assessment and intervention strategies.

The Special Education MA offers five unique concentrations designed to match your professional goals:

Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Generalist, Gifted Education Specialist Endorsement, Intervention Specialist: Academic Coaching and Leadership, and Visual Impairment.

Each concentration provides advanced preparation to support diverse learners, strengthen inclusive practices, and expand your expertise as an educator committed to making a meaningful impact.

PhD in Special Education is a fully online, flexible doctoral program designed to prepare leaders and innovators in the field. With individualized planning and mentorship, you’ll gain the expertise to advance research, policy, and practice in special education—ready to lead in schools, universities, agencies, and beyond.

Professional Licensure

Questions? Contact Us!