We strive to prepare educators to assist children, youth and adults with disabilities to be academically and socially successful life-long learners. Our faculty are consistently recognized — internationally and across the U.S. — for their individual and collaborative teaching and research excellence. The department’s unique mix of faculty expertise areas creates a wide range of opportunities for students and researchers. Special Education hosts or co-hosts several state and federally supported training, demonstration and research projects, including the following three centers that focus on facilitating positive developmental outcomes for children and youth with disabilities:
Center for School-Wide Positive Behavioral Supports
Center for Adolescent Research in Schools
Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Degrees Offered
Doctoral
On Campus
The program offers Doctoral degrees in Special Education with emphasis areas in Behavior Disorders, Early Childhood Special Education, and Learning Disabilities.
Admission Criteria
Fall deadline: January 15
Spring deadline: August 15
- Minimum GPA: 3.5/4.0
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
Minimum GRE Scores
| Test Type | Verbal+Quantitative |
| GRE | 297 |
Faculty selection committees review applications for admission into the various graduate programs. Factors considered in the graduate student review process include previous academic course work and performance, GRE scores, letters of recommendation from professors or professional supervisors and relevant professional work experiences. The letter of intent is evaluated for advising purposes and is an indication of the applicant’s motivation, professionalism and writing competencies. Interviews with faculty are often arranged as part of the admissions review process.
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Special Education Program
- Personal Data Sheet
- Statement of purpose (usually around 500 words) in which you summarize your professional goals, including career objectives, research interests, your motivation for advanced graduate work and other pertinent information.
- A minimum of three letters of recommendation. Letters may be sent to the Special Education Department or they may be submitted electronically through the Graduate School online application.
- GRE score report
- TOEFL or IELTS score report. Students whose native language is not English must submit scores on a TOEFL or the IELTS administered within the last two years.
Master's
100% Online On Campus
The program offers Master’s degrees in Special Education with emphasis areas in Autism, Behavior Disorders, Cross-Categorical with Certification, Early Childhood & Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, Gifted Education, and Learning Disabilities.
Admission Criteria
Fall deadline: May 15
Spring deadline: October 15
Summer deadline: March 15
- Minimum GPA: 3.0/4.0
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
Faculty selection committees review applications for admission into the various graduate programs. Factors considered in the graduate student review process include previous academic course work and performance, GRE scores, letters of recommendation from professors or professional supervisors and relevant professional work experiences. The letter of intent is evaluated for advising purposes and is an indication of the applicant’s motivation, professionalism and writing competencies. Interviews with faculty are often arranged as part of the admissions review process.
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Special Education Program
- Personal Data Sheet
- Statement of purpose (usually around 500 words) in which you summarize your professional goals, including career objectives, research interests, your motivation for graduate work and other pertinent information
- A minimum of two letters of recommendation. Letters may be sent to the Special Education Department or they may be submitted electronically through the Graduate School online application.
- GRE score report
- TOEFL or IELTS score report. Students whose native language is not English must submit scores on a TOEFL or the IELTS administered within the last two years.
On Campus
Admission Criteria
- First deadline: Due January 15th (For scholarships)
- Second deadline: Due March 30th (For practicum placements)
- Third deadline: June 30th – For admittance to classes
Minimum Language Requirements
Click here to view the minimum English language proficiency test scores
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Applied Behavior Analysis Program
- Statement of purpose, around 500 words, in which you summarize your professional goals, including career objectives, research interests, your motivation for advanced graduate work and other pertinent information
- CV/Resume
- At least two letters of recommendation
- The letters should attest to your professional competence, academic preparation and potential for graduate work.
- Ideally, two letters should be from college or university professors who can discuss your academic abilities, and one should be from an administrator or colleague who can describe authoritatively your professional experience and potential.
- Letters are submitted through the online application system.
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
Graduate Certificate
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: The 100% online Intervention and Instruction Certificate will prepare highly qualified educators (general educators and special educators) and related service providers to provide evidence-based practices and supports to meet the academic goals of children with special needs. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective across developmental domains, can ameliorate negative effects, and improve long-term outcomes of student achievement. This graduate certificate may serve as a stand-alone credential or may be applied towards a master’s degree.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
| Entrance Term | Application Deadline |
| Fall | May 15 |
| Spring | October 15 |
| Summer | March 15 |
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: This 100% online Special Education Cross-Categorical Certificate is recommended for educators (general educators, paraeducators, and other school personnel) who do not hold teaching certification in special education. This certificate will prepare highly qualified school personnel to provide evidence-based practices and supports to children with disabilities in their classrooms. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective across developmental domains, can ameliorate negative effects, and improve long-term outcomes of student achievement. This graduate certificate is a stand-alone credential.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
- Fall deadline: May 15
- Spring deadline: October 15
- Summer deadline: March 15
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: The 100% online Special Education Certificate will prepare highly qualified educators (general educators and special educators) and related service providers to provide evidence-based practices and supports to students with disabilities in their classrooms. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective across developmental domains, can ameliorate negative effects, and improve long-term outcomes of student achievement. This graduate certificate may serve as a stand-alone credential or may be applied towards a master’s degree.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
- Fall deadline: May 15
- Spring deadline: October 15
- Summer deadline: March 15
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: The 100% online Early Childhood Special Education Certificate will prepare highly qualified educators (general educators and special educators) and related service providers to provide evidence-based practices (EBPs) and supports to early childhood special education students and their families. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective across developmental domains, can ameliorate negative effects, and improve long-term outcomes of student achievement. This graduate certificate may serve as a stand-alone credential or be applied towards a master’s degree.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
- Fall deadline: May 15
- Spring deadline: October 15
- Summer deadline: March 15
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: The 100% online Gifted Education Certificate will prepare highly qualified educators to provide evidence-based practices and supports to gifted children and their families. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective in supporting gifted and talented learners to achieve long-term outcomes of student success. This graduate certificate may serve as a stand-alone credential or be applied towards the required coursework to obtain gifted teaching certification and/or a master’s degree.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
- Fall deadline: May 15
- Spring deadline: October 15
- Summer deadline: March 15
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
100% Online
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 12
Certificate description: The 100% online Autism Education Certificate will prepare highly qualified educators (general educators and special educators) and related service providers to provide evidence-based practices and supports to students with autism and other developmental disabilities. Scholars completing the certificate program will be able to deliver EBPs that are effective across developmental domains, can ameliorate negative effects, and improve long-term outcomes of student achievement. This graduate certificate may serve as a stand-alone credential or be applied towards a master’s degree.
Certificate web site: https://cehd.missouri.edu/special-education/degrees-programs/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines
- Fall deadline: May 15
- Spring deadline: October 15
- Summer deadline: March 15
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Graduate Certificate Program
- Unofficial transcript
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE score report (optional)
On Campus
Officially approved as:
Stand Alone: Yes
Total Credit Hours: 18
Certificate description: A Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program will train you to be an exceptional practitioner of ABA-based interventions to improve quality of life for people with behavioral challenges, including children and adults with developmental needs. MU graduate students can complete the certificate program while pursuing a degree, and the certificate also complements the skills of recent graduates and experienced professionals who want to specialize in ABA. The program is designed to meet eligibility requirements to sit for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam. This course sequence is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
In our program, you’ll learn the conceptual foundations of ABA and how these behavioral principles are applied to improve behavior. Central to this program is a collaboration with the MU College of Education and the MU Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Partnership with the College of Education allows for shared courses taught by professors from the School of Health Professions and the College of Education, and the MU Thompson Center serves as the primary practicum site to give you an exceptional experiential learning opportunity working with individuals with developmental needs.
Certificate web site:
https://education.missouri.edu/degrees-programs/certificates-minors/applied-behavior-analysis/
Admission Criteria
Application Deadlines for the Fall Semester
- Priority deadline: January 15
- Second priority deadline: March 30
- Final deadline: June 30
Application Process
- Current Mizzou Graduate Students: Complete the Change of Program Form and submit the form directly to the Applied Behavior Analysis program.
- New/Returning Mizzou Graduate Students: Students new to Mizzou or former Mizzou graduate students returning after a semester break or longer, should complete the Graduate Application for Admission. Please include the application materials listed below in your online application.
Required Application Materials
For the Graduate School
- Completed Graduate School online application
- Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
- Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)
For the Applied Behavior Analysis Program
- Unofficial transcript: Please upload all of your undergraduate and graduate unofficial transcripts.
- Personal data sheet (built into the Graduate School online application)
- Statement of purpose, around 500 words, in which you summarize your professional goals, including career objectives, research interests, your motivation for advanced graduate work and other pertinent information.
- Resume/CV: Please make sure to include the month/year for the start and end dates of all work experience.
- One Letter of Recommendation
- The letter should attest to your professional competence, academic preparation and potential for graduate work.
- Ideally, the letter should be from college or university professors who can discuss your academic abilities, or from an administrator or colleague who can describe authoritatively your professional experience and potential.
- Letters are submitted through the online application system.