Special Education
Explore the career you could build with this skill.
What Is Special Education?
Every student has a unique way to learn and interact, and special education helps ensure students with disabilities have the support and opportunities they need to succeed. It combines individualized instruction, accommodations and specialized strategies to help students grow academically and personally.
Building special education skills can strengthen your ability to recognize individual needs, adapt instruction and create supportive learning environments. These skills can benefit teachers, support professionals and education leaders committed to helping every student reach their potential.
Recent Trends in Special Education
Special education continues to evolve toward more inclusive, individualized approaches to learning. Educators are using assistive technology, data and evidence-based strategies to better understand student needs and personalize support.
Schools are also placing greater emphasis on early intervention, collaboration and support for students’ behavioral and emotional needs. These developments are expanding how educators create accessible learning experiences for students with diverse learning needs.
Special Education Courses
American College of Education (ACE) offers standalone courses that can help you develop your skills in this area.
Special Education Careers
Learn more about the career paths you can pursue with this skill on your resume. Please note that some careers listed may require state licensure, certification or additional qualifications.
Course Stackability
We want our students to get the most out of their hard work. That’s why we design our courses and programs with stackability in mind. Some courses can be applied toward a micro-credential or certificate, which can in turn be applied toward a master’s degree. That master’s degree coursework could then be applied toward a doctorate. Even by taking a single course at ACE, you’re taking a smart step toward a larger educational future.
Related Degrees
The courses you take in this skill area can earn you academic credit that you can apply to these ACE degrees.
Course Admissions
For students taking single courses without enrolling in a program, admission requirements will depend on the level of the course. Students must meet ACE’s general admission requirements and be admitted to the college before signing up for a stand-alone class.
Bachelor’s Level
- At least 30 semester credits
- Minimum GPA of 1.75
Master’s Level
- A bachelor’s or highest post-baccalaureate degree
- Minimum GPA of 2.5*
Doctoral Level
- A master’s or doctoral degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
*Applicants whose overall GPA is between 2.0-2.49 may be considered for admission if their degree was conferred more than 10 years from the start date at ACE or the applicant has five or more years of experience in the field appropriate for intended courses.
Special Education FAQs
What do special education courses cover?
Special education courses can explore learning differences, instructional strategies, assessment, behavior support and approaches to individualized learning. Topics vary depending on the course and level of study.
Can I take special education courses online?
Yes. Online special education courses can offer a flexible way to strengthen your knowledge of inclusive instruction and strategies for supporting diverse learners while balancing other responsibilities.
Who should take courses for special education?
Courses for special education can benefit teachers, paraeducators, education leaders and other professionals who support students with disabilities. They may also be useful for educators who want to strengthen their ability to create more inclusive learning environments.
What skills can you develop through special education coursework?
Special education coursework can help develop skills in differentiated instruction, assessment, collaboration, behavior support and individualized learning. These abilities can help educators respond more effectively to the unique strengths and needs of their students.