M.A. in Special Education

Application Fees : US$ 80

Postgraduate Programs:

• Minimum academic requirement: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or above.
• English language proficiency: International students are required to demonstrate English language proficiency. The accepted English language tests and minimum scores are the same as for undergraduate programs (IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 79, PTE: 59, DET: 110).
• Some postgraduate programs may also require relevant work experience in the field of study. 

Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including academic merit, leadership qualities, extracurricular involvement, and community service. 

1. International Presidential Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to a limited number of outstanding international students. It covers the full cost of tuition for up to four years of undergraduate study. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities.

2. Capstone International Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. It provides a partial tuition waiver, reducing the overall tuition expenses. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, subject to maintaining the required GPA.

3. Global Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to undergraduate international students who actively promote cross-cultural understanding and engagement on campus. Recipients receive a partial tuition waiver and are expected to serve as cultural ambassadors by participating in university events and activities.

4. Competitive Merit Scholarships: The University of Alabama offers a range of merit-based scholarships to international students, such as the National Merit Scholarship, Collegiate Scholars Award, and Crimson Achievement Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and standardized test scores.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the university offer scholarships specific to their respective fields of study. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities within their intended major or program of study.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Alabama also provides guidance and resources to international students seeking external scholarships. The Office of Undergraduate Scholarships and Prestigious Awards assists students in identifying and applying for scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies.

To be considered for these scholarships, international students must submit their application for admission by the specified deadlines. Some scholarships may require additional materials, such as essays or letters of recommendation. It is important to review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each scholarship opportunity.

The M.A. in Special Education program opens up a range of fulfilling career opportunities for graduates. The diverse career opportunities and the growing demand for special education professionals make this program an excellent choice for individuals passionate about making a difference in the field of special education.

1. Special Education Teacher: Graduates can become special education teachers in K-12 schools, working with students with diverse learning needs. They design individualized instructional plans, assess progress, and provide targeted support to help students succeed academically and socially.

2. Inclusion Specialist: Graduates may work as inclusion specialists, supporting the inclusion of students with disabilities in general education classrooms. They collaborate with general education teachers to develop differentiated instructional strategies and accommodations.

3. Behavior Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as behavior specialists, working with students who exhibit challenging behaviors. They develop behavior intervention plans and provide strategies to promote positive behavior and social skills.

4. Autism Specialist: Graduates may specialize in working with students on the autism spectrum, providing specialized instruction, social skills training, and behavioral support.

5. Education Consultant: Graduates can work as education consultants, supporting schools and districts in implementing effective practices for students with disabilities.

6. Resource Room Teacher: Graduates may serve as resource room teachers, providing small-group instruction and support to students with disabilities in a resource room setting.

7. Curriculum Coordinator: Graduates can work as curriculum coordinators, developing and adapting curriculum materials to meet the needs of students with diverse learning needs.

8. Early Intervention Specialist: Graduates can work in early intervention programs, providing support and services to infants and young children with developmental delays or disabilities.

9. Special Education Administrator: Graduates with additional leadership training may pursue careers as special education administrators, overseeing special education programs and services at the school or district level.

10. Research and Advocacy: Graduates can work in research organizations or advocacy groups, conducting research, and advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities.