Advance your skills in education as a leader who successfully maximizes learning for all students, by effectively dedicating resources, personnel, and programs through innovative problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration with the University of Mary’s online Master of Education, Special Education Leadership program.

Designed for working adults, students in our Master of Education in Special Education Leadership program learn from knowledgeable faculty and successful leaders in the field. You’ll also have the opportunity to complete the requirements for North Dakota’s Special Education Director and K-12 Administrator credentials. 

Take the First Step

Get in touch with any questions or submit a simple application for admission.

After you're admitted to the university as a candidate for graduate studies, we will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance into your academic program so you can enroll and begin your classes!

At a Glance

7.5 million
The number of US public school students served by special education educators according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Program Length

As little as 1.5 years

Formats

  • Online
  • Blended with summer classes on our main campus in Bismarck, ND

Tuition per Credit

$595

Is This the Degree For Me?

Who It’s For

  • Professionals interested in a career in special education leadership roles
  • Special education teachers looking to move into administration

Career Paths

  • Special Education Administrator
  • K-12 School Administrator

What You’ll Learn

  • Enhance your ability to problem-solve challenges, as you serve as an ethical and innovative leader committed to providing programs grounded in best practices.
  • Acquire practical expertise by collaborating with seasoned educators, administrators, and distinguished faculty members.
  • Cultivate a strong professional network through immersive learning within a closely-knit peer community.

Looking for Scholarship Opportunities?

The Paraprofessional-to-Teacher Pathway program through the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (DPI) is offering scholarships to help paraprofessional educators get their North Dakota Teaching license. To qualify for the scholarship, you need to be working at least 50% of the school day as a paraprofessional in a North Dakota school. If you are interested in applying, please contact an admissions representative.

Accreditations

  • Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB)

    The graduate programs in Education at the University of Mary are accredited by the state of North Dakota’s Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The graduate Education programs meet all Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Advanced standards.

    View Accreditation (Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB))

Program Details

Program Information

Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.

Your first step is to get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission. After acceptance to the University as a candidate for graduate studies, we will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance into your academic program so you can enroll and begin your classes!

If you are serving or have served our country, we sincerely thank you. Our military services office is here to work closely with active duty, retired, reserve, and eligible family members qualified for military benefits. Learn how we can help you with the application process and review the benefits you have earned.

For a full list of fees, visit our Tuition and Fees page.

The University of Mary is committed to putting your educational goals within reach. Learn what scholarships you qualify for.

We welcome students from various backgrounds, including transfer students from institutionally accredited colleges and universities recognized by the US Dept. of Education and those with military or career and work experience. 

How do I show my previous college, military, or work experience?

  • Official transcripts (if applicable) from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 should be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions.
    • Did you graduate from the University of Mary? Then we’ll get your Mary transcript for you!
    • At most other schools, you can request transcripts by going to the National Student Clearinghouse or by contacting the registrar’s office. 
      • Have your transcripts sent to:

        Office of Admissions

        University of Mary

        7500 University Drive

        Bismarck, ND 58504
      • Or request to send electronic transcripts to registrar@umary.edu.
  • Students with previous career or work experience can earn credits for prior learning.
    • You can choose to test for prior learning credits — we convert your test scores into college credit.
    • You can request a portfolio review for prior learning credits. You’ll assemble documentation to show your experience, which will be reviewed and evaluated by an experienced faculty member.
  • Military experience can count towards a degree.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO APPLY?
  • All of our programs require you to fill out the general application form in addition to submitting the application fee and your transcripts.
  • Any program-specific requirements you’ll need to submit in addition to the items listed above can be found in our catalog.

At the University of Mary, we review every application on an individual basis, ensuring that the materials you submit are evaluated with care and attention. Reach out to us if you have any questions in filling out your application.

Students interested in obtaining an education licensure or endorsement should check with their own state Department of Education for information about licensure and/or endorsement requirements before contacting the university in order to determine what additional coursework may be needed.

Get Started Today

Apply Online