What are key characteristics of a special education teacher?

There are many characteristics that are essential for teachers who work with special needs students. Some examples include:They are active listenersThey have strong social perception skillsThey understand how to support different learning stylesThey’re adept at complex problem solvingThey are service oriented

MA in Special Education (Applied Behavioral Analyst)

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

Ethical Excellence

Grow professionally by embracing ethical practices and impactful research to support special needs communities.

Aligned with Standards

Aligned to the highest national standards in leadership, including the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), Education Leaders Standards.

BCBA Certification

This program meets the BCBA Pathway 2 coursework requirements and prepares you to take the BCBA exam.

Median Salary²

Job openings (in the last 12 months)

Top Companies Hiring

Median Salary²

Job openings (in the last 12 months)

Top Companies Hiring

Median Salary²

Job openings (in the last 12 months)

Top Companies Hiring

Median Salary²

Job openings (in the last 12 months)

Top Companies Hiring

Data source: Lightcast™ 2025 www.lightcast.io

The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

Courses You Might Take

EDUU 692

The Science and Philosophical Underpinnings of Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 694

Using and Analyzing Measurement, Data and Experimental Design in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 695

Assessment to Guide and Evaluate Intervention in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 696

Selecting and Implementing Interventions for Behavior Change in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 697

Program Oversight, Collaboration and Management in Applied Behavior Analysis

3 Credits

EDUU 698

Ethical Behavior and the Compliance Code for Applied Behavior Analysts

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

All Faculty

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

Completed application
2.75 grade point average (GPA)
Hold a current special education teaching credential or take EDUU 511 Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling
Resume showing at least part-time employment in a field which uses Applied Behavior Analysis (i.e., education, medicine, social work, occupational or speech therapy)
Official transcripts from all regionally accredited institutions where baccalaureate and/or post-baccalaureate coursework was completed or attempted

Graduate Level Exams

This Master’s degree program does not require applicants to take costly exams like the GRE/GMAT. Why? Because we value your professional and life experience. You should get credit for what you already know.

We support our
Military Veterans!

Yellow Ribbon School
Recognized Military Friendly School
Founded to Serve Military Personnel

Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey.

Learn How

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC)

Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

University of Massachusetts Global is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Calculate Time and Cost

Take the next step toward your Master's in Special Education at UMass Global

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many characteristics that are essential for teachers who work with special needs students. Some examples include:

They are active listeners
They have strong social perception skills
They understand how to support different learning styles
They’re adept at complex problem solving
They are service oriented

Historically, students with disabilities were taught separately from other students, hence the term "special education." That is no longer the case. Today, schools strive to deliver "inclusive education," where special education services are delivered in the general education environment. "All means all" is the philosophy where all students can learn together in the same classroom. Get strategies for fostering inclusive learning.

IEP stands for “Individualized Education Program.” Once a child has been evaluated and their eligibility for services is confirmed, the IEP serves as the roadmap for success based on the student’s unique needs. Special Educators work with a team that includes parents, administrators, and other related service providers to develop the IEP and document.

My experiences as a student at UMass Global have provided me valuable knowledge and skills that I can apply to my work supporting individuals with autism. My academic journey at UMass Global has enabled me to stay current with the latest evidence-based practices, ensuring that I can provide the most effective support.

Dani K.

MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

The programs at UMass Global have reinforced my commitment to working in the autism community by equipping me with research-based strategies and practical skills that I can apply directly in my work. This education has not only expanded my knowledge but has also strengthened my confidence in advocating for and implementing best practices in the field.

Shyann H.

MA in Special Education, Autism

My experience with autism has greatly influenced my academic journey by allowing me to connect real-life experiences with what I learn in my coursework. I can relate to case studies and classroom discussions, which helps me analyze different perspectives and collaborate with classmates to find effective solutions.

Lena H.

MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself.

Leonard W.

Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, MA

I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education. I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.

Amy J.

Special Education, MA

North Orange County ROP, Career Technical Education Teacher in the Education Pathway

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