Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this program for?
- Current teachers seeking to enhance their skills in working with students with disabilities
- Aspiring educators who want to specialize in special education
- Professionals from diverse backgrounds interested in transitioning to special education careers
- Individuals who need a flexible, fully online program that accommodates working schedules
- Bachelor’s degree holders looking to advance their knowledge in academic intervention, behavior management, disability studies, dyslexia, or early childhood education
- Educators seeking professional advancement while continuing their current roles
- Those interested in developing specific professional competencies rather than pursuing research-focused degrees
- Individuals who prefer a part-time study format (typically two courses per semester) with the ability to complete the program in two years
- Professionals seeking to build expertise in specific areas through specialized tracks (Academic, Behavior, Disabilities in Society, Dyslexia, or Early Childhood Studies)
- The program is specifically structured to accommodate working professionals with primarily asynchronous coursework that allows students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments.
What tracks are available within the M.Ed. program?
The program offers five specialized tracks: Academic, Behavior, Disabilities in Society, Dyslexia, and Early Childhood Studies. Students can take courses from a single track or mix courses from different tracks to meet their professional goals.
What are the admissions requirements to enroll in the program?
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Education or a related field of study.
- Submit three letters of reference.
- Provide official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
- Submit a letter of interest outlining your goals and motivations.
- Provide a current resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
Please note that GRE scores are no longer required for admission.
What is the application deadline for the M.Ed. program?
Applications for Summer 2025 are due March 17, 2025; for Fall 2025, July 10, 2025; and for Spring 2026, November 17, 2025.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is designed for working professionals, and courses have a structure that allow you to balance assignments with a busy life. The program comprises 15 courses, 3 credits each. It takes two years to complete (including summers).
How much does it cost?
The Teach Well program is a 36 credit-hour, degree seeking program. Information about online tuition can be found here. Note that participants outside the state of Florida should calculate the non-FL resident fee in addition to the base fee. Your particular tuition fees may vary according to your program. Textbooks costs and materials are additional and vary by class. The cost for texts per class is approximately $100-$150, but again, this may vary.
Is financial aid available?
Federal financial aid may be available in the form of grants and loans. Please visit UF’s Student Financial Aid for more information on how to apply.
What kind of financial aid is available?
Private or alternative loans are offered to students in graduate programs. You can access the application for these loans at http://www.sfa.ufl.edu/types-of-aid/loans/alternative-loans/.
The College of Education offers scholarships on an annual basis. Information about those can be found at https://education.ufl.edu/student-services/scholarships/. If you are currently a practicing educator, you might also reach out to your school district’s Professional Development Coordinator to inquire about other sources of funding.
How do the courses work?
The courses are primarily asynchronous, allowing students and instructors to work on their own schedules rather than in real time. Participants can access course materials, lectures, discussions, and assignments at any time. Each course is divided into modules or “chunks,” typically spanning 2-3 weeks. During this period, participants are expected to engage frequently and complete all module requirements within the given timeframe. While most coursework is asynchronous, some courses may include occasional synchronous sessions, which are conducted via an online meeting platform.
Click here for a copy of the program plan.
What are the course requirements?
The M.Ed. in Special Education requires 36 total credit hours. All students must complete the 12-credit Teach Well Core (foundations of special education, academic assessment, and behavior intervention courses). The remaining 24 credits come from your chosen track(s): Academic, Behavior, Disabilities in Society, Dyslexia, or Early Childhood Studies. Each track has 3-5 specific courses, with remaining credits filled from any track. You can focus on one track or mix courses across tracks based on your professional interests. Your individualized Program Plan must be approved by a Teach Well Advisor.
Can I transfer credits from another university?
Is the GRE required for admission?
The M.Ed. program in Special Education no longer requires the GRE for admission.