Special Education (All Grades) Online
Program Overview
This graduate program will prepare you to be an effective teacher of students with disabilities across all grades from PreK to grade 12 in NYS public schools. This program accepts fall applications only, and classes begin in the summer.
Coursework and Clinical Experiences
Asynchronous Online Coursework
Courses are offered entirely online in an asynchronous format with video supervision.
This program is designed for experienced, self-motivated learners who are ready to engage in rigorous, self-directed learning. All coursework is delivered asynchronously, meaning there are no required live sessions. Instead, students complete learning activities, readings, discussions, and assignments on their own schedules – within structured weekly deadlines.
This online format requires students to:
- Manage their own time effectively
- Engage actively with digital course content and online collaborative work
- Demonstrate initiative in seeking clarification or feedback
- Maintain consistent participation in weekly online discussions and assignments
- Be comfortable with video supervision and video-based feedback. Assignments often require candidates to record and upload footage from the classroom or intervention sessions for instructor feedback. This process supports real-world skill development and fosters reflective practice, both of which are essential for success in the field of special education.
Successful candidates typically have:
- Prior experience with asynchronous coursework
- Strong skills in time management and self-direction
- Familiarity with video recording and secure file sharing
- A commitment to professional growth in inclusive education settings
Clinical Experiences
Select courses require hours of classroom experience (fieldwork) in a New York City or New York State public school. Students also participate in supervised teaching (student teaching and/or practicum) as the culmination of their course of study. Student teaching and/or practicum requires five full days per week for at least one semester.
If you have any questions about the online asynchronous program, we encourage you to contact the Program Leader, Dr. Gina Riley.
If you prefer a more direct instruction-based program, the Hybrid Special Education All Grades program would be a great fit.
Credits
32-35
Certification
Students with Disabilities All Grades (PreK-12)
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 3.0 or a master’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.5.
- A liberal arts or sciences major or interdisciplinary concentration of at least 30 credits.
- A minimum of 24 liberal arts and sciences credits as follows: 6 credits English, 6 credits in historical and social sciences, 6 credits in science, 6 credits in math.
- A statement of purpose.
- Two letters of recommendation.
To Apply
This online program accepts applications each fall semester.
Create your Hunter College Graduate Application and select the program “Special Education (All Grades) – (Online), MSEd”.
Application Deadlines
Fall Start
- March 15
Visit How to Apply for information about deadline extensions.