Full-time tuition
$9,210 per year for in-state and $9,990 for out-of-state residents (based on 30 credit hours). See details and other costs
Financial aid
Average offer covers a large portion of tuition & fees.
In-state: nearly 100%;
Out-of-state: nearly 70%.
May include scholarships, grants, waiver, & work-study. Explore aid
Program duration
Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options
Admissions
SAT & ACT scores optional. Early action & year-round admissions. View application process & deadlines
Program Highlights
Career opportunities
Whether you are new to the profession or have prior teaching experience, our program will prepare you for special education roles in K-12 public and private settings. We welcome first-year college students, and those with associate degrees or prior college coursework, including paraprofessionals such as education technicians.
State certification
Graduates are qualified for initial certification through the Maine DOE for K-12 special education. Nationally accredited, our Maine certification qualifications are transferable to many other states.
National accreditation & state approval
We are nationally accredited by CAEP (Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation) and state-approved by the Maine Department of Education.
Program requirements
Develop the skillset to support students with disabilities across all school settings. Our coursework aligns with research-based best practices, including foundations in systematic and explicit instruction, and High Leverage Practices through a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS).
Continual classroom experience
We provide K-12 practice early and often — you’ll start working with students in your first year and complete a final year-long internship. Current educators can complete fieldwork through employment serving students with disabilities as Registered Apprentices in their school district.
Scholarship opportunities
Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.
Considering transferring to USM?
We welcome students who are transferring from another four-year university or community college. Our knowledgeable Admissions Counselors will help you to navigate the admissions and credit-transfer process.
Dedicated, engaged faculty
Our full-time faculty hold doctoral degrees in special education, and part-time faculty are practicing educators with many years of K-12 experience. Many are leaders in state and national associations and are nationally-recognized for expertise in supporting a Multi-Tiered System of Supports.
Online student support
Maintain a flexible schedule while earning your degree. Our online students receive the same superior support as those who study on campus, including one-on-one career advising, video meetings with tutors and writing assistants, and technology assistance.
Welcoming adult learners
We understand the demands of completing your degree while maintaining your work schedule and life responsibilities. Here, you'll find flexibility and personal support to achieve your academic and professional goals.
Our helpful admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services. We also invite you to explore the many ways to visit campus or to engage with us through online experiences.