Appalachian State University
Special Education: Master of Arts (MA)
Application Deadlines
Spring Admission
November 1
Summer Session 1 Admission
April 1
Summer Session 2 Admission
April 1
Fall Admission
July 1
Exams & Waivers
Entrance exam: GRE or MAT
Exam waiver available: Yes
Learn more about exam waiver eligibility
Location
On campus (full-time or part-time) and online
Completion Time
2 years (full time)
Educate exceptional children.
The Master of Arts in Special Education program at App State graduates highly skilled educators who can plan and administer special education curricula while facilitating a safe and effective classroom.
You’ll increase your knowledge in many areas of special education and prepare to champion the rights of individuals with disabilities — in and out of the classroom. This coursework will satisfy the advanced competencies licensure from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
Visit the Reich College of Education website for more information about the Special Education program.
Explore the Graduate Bulletin to learn about the program of study for this degree.
Professional Licensure
This is a program that can lead to licensure or certification in North Carolina. Appalachian State University cannot confirm whether this program will meet the requirements for professional licensure in other states or territories.
If this applies to you, check the Professional Licensure webpage for information on licensure requirements and licensing agencies in other states. Or, you may address questions to State Authorization at App State at stateauthorization@appstate.edu or 828-262-7559.
A 2024 ‘Best’
In its 2024 “Best Colleges” rankings, U.S. News & World Report named App State:
- No. 1 — Most Innovative School among Southern universities
- No. 2 — Top Public Schools in the South
- No. 3 — Best Regional Universities of the South
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and the Southeast for 2024.
‘Top’ school for 2023
Forbes magazine ranked App State among “America’s Top Colleges” for 2023.
Concentrations and Courses
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go!
Careers
- Teacher
- Behavioral Specialist
- Resource Teacher
Employers
Public and private schools across North Carolina and the U.S.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more
Professional Development
Invest in yourself with opportunities designed to stimulate career growth. Learn more
Graduate Assistantships
Earn some money while you earn your degree. Learn more
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Aftynne E. Cheek
Program Director
cheekae1@appstate.edu
828-262-7833
Department of Child Development, Literacy and Special Education
Visit Campus
Experience the beauty of App State’s Boone campus firsthand. Tour campus, virtually or in person. Explore App State’s Boone home.
Admissions Events
Want to know more about the people and programs of App State’s School of Graduate Studies? Attend an information session.