Help every student reach their full potential. Buena Vista University's online Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) – Special Education program prepares individuals with a bachelor's degree to become licensed special education teachers while earning a master's degree.
Designed for career changers and non-licensed special education professionals, this flexible online program combines graduate coursework, clinical experiences, and personalized faculty support to prepare you to serve students with diverse learning needs. In approximately two years, you'll earn your master's degree and initial Iowa teaching licensure in K-12 special education, opening the door to a rewarding career where you can make a lasting difference in students' lives.
Fast Facts
Format: 100% online coursework
Duration: Complete in approximately 2 years
Cost: $495 per credit hour
Start Dates: August & January
GRE: Not Required
Licensure: Initial Iowa K-12 Special Education Teaching Licensure
Why study Master of Arts in Teaching: Special Education at BVU
Take the next step toward a rewarding career in special education. BVU combines flexibility, expert instruction, and meaningful classroom experiences to prepare you for licensure and success.
A Pathway into Special Education
Whether you're changing careers or already working in a school setting, BVU provides a clear pathway to becoming a licensed special education teacher. Graduate prepared to support students with diverse learning needs through evidence-based instruction, advocacy, and collaboration.
Designed for Working Professionals
Continue working while earning your degree through a flexible online format with accelerated 7.5-week terms and one virtual class session each week. Complete your master's degree and teaching licensure in approximately two years.
Learn from Experienced Educators
Coursework combines research, theory, and practical application, giving you evidence-based strategies you can immediately implement with students, collaborate with colleagues, and support families.
Earn Your Master's and Licensure Together
Complete one streamlined program that leads to both a master's degree and initial Iowa teaching licensure in K-12 special education. With competitive tuition and no GRE requirement, BVU offers an affordable path into one of education's most in-demand fields.
"BVU strengthened my skills and sharpened my purpose.
"I chose BVU because I needed a graduate program that truly understood the heart of teaching. Every course has connected directly to my work with students who deserve patience, empathy, and someone who sees their potential. BVU has strengthened my skills and sharpened my purpose, helping me grow into an educator who leads with compassion, evidence-based practice, and unwavering belief in every child."
— Kelley DeLong
Learn by doing, from day one
Through online coursework, clinical experiences, and faculty mentorship, you'll develop the skills needed to create inclusive learning environments and help students with exceptional needs thrive. Throughout the program, you'll:
Learn evidence-based instructional strategies for students with diverse learning needs.
Build skills in assessment, individualized instruction, and classroom collaboration.
Gain practical experience through supervised field experiences and clinical practice.
Prepare for initial Iowa teaching licensure in K-12 special education.
Learn from faculty who bring extensive classroom experience to every course.
BVU master of arts in teaching: special education graduates go far.
Where this degree can take you
Licensure Pathways
The Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education prepares graduates for initial Iowa teaching licensure in one of two specialization areas:
Prepare to support students with behavioral disorders and learning disabilities through evidence-based instructional practices and individualized support.
Develop the knowledge and skills needed to serve students with intellectual disabilities through specialized instruction, collaboration, and advocacy.
Designed for Licensed Educators
If you already hold a teaching license and want to expand your expertise, explore BVU's Master of Education – Special Education program.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Every student deserves a teacher who believes in their potential. BVU's Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education program will prepare you with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students with diverse learning needs.