Special Education, Instruction (MS)
The Master of Science (MS) in Special Education, Instruction at Cairn University is a flexible, 100% online graduate program designed for educators seeking to master evidence-based strategies for teaching children with mild to moderate disabilities in inclusive and restrictive settings, grounded in a biblical worldview with integrated Christian principles.
Our Distinctives
Cairn is a place that faithfully upholds the authority and centrality of Christ and the Bible in its programs, curriculum, community, and ethos. Students are taught to think biblically about God, themselves, and the world in which they live.
*Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities
Experienced, Committed Faculty Mentorship
Courses are taught by Cairn’s own dedicated professors who provide ongoing weekly involvement, personalized feedback, spiritual encouragement, and optional Zoom office hours, fostering both professional growth and an incarnational learning experience.
Biblically Rooted
All instruction is grounded in the timeless Truth of God’s Word, equipping educators to develop a personal special education philosophy and apply biblical principles to professional practice, viewing students as uniquely created by God.
Strong Academics
At Cairn we prepare you for life in the real world with great academics and professors with real life experience.
Affordable Options with Significant Discounts
Christian school educators receive up to a 40% tuition discount, plus options for advanced standing in Bible/Theology credits, making the program more accessible and efficient.
Program Description
The Online Master of Science (MS) in Special Education, Instruction at Cairn University prepares graduates for high-demand roles as special education teachers, instructional coordinators, or consultants, offering an optional Pennsylvania PK-12 Special Education certification add-on (36–47 credits depending on prior certification), experienced faculty mentorship, and significant tuition discounts for Christian school educators.
Upon completion of this program, a student receives a Master of Science in Special Education degree.
Individuals can choose to add a PA Special Education PK-12 certification.
Core Curriculum Courses
- EDU 713 – Educational Research Credits: 3
- SPE 661 – Foundations of Special Education Credits: 3
- SPE 794 – Special Education Comprehensive Exam Credits: 0
Specialization Courses
- SPE 761 – Inclusionary Practices Credits: 3
- SPE 714 – Diagnosis and Evaluation of the Exceptional Learner Credits: 3
- SPE 721 – ABA for Autism and Other Disabilities I Credits: 3
- SPE 723 – Interventions for Autism and Other Disabilities Credits: 3
- SPE 762 – Developmental and Diagnostic Reading Interventions Credits: 3
- SPE 763 – Teaching Children with Higher Incidence Disabilities Credits: 3
- SPE 764 – Teaching Children with Lower Incidence Disabilities Credits: 3
Learn More
Program Add-on Option: PA Special Education PK-12 Certification
Individuals can choose to add a PA Special Education PK-12 certification.
- Students. who already possess an initial certification, will complete a total of 43 credits: two practicums [SPE 791 (1 cr) and SPE 792 (2 cr)], student teaching [SPE 789 (4 cr)], and TSL 611 (3 cr).
- Students pursuing initial certification, students will complete a total of 47 credits, which replaces SPE 789 (4 cr) with SPE 787 (8 cr) for student teaching.
Students are also eligible to apply to ACSI for a special education certificate if all ACSI requirements are met. Students should consult with their advisor for more information.
Program Competencies
The curriculum is designed to develop the following competencies in students. The goal is that the graduate is able to:
- Describe and identify the special education system in the United States.
- Summarize, identify, and implement processes and services for individuals with disabilities.
- Design, implement, and modify instruction for individuals with disabilities that is based on their cognition, development, academic and functional performance, and Individual Education Program and aligned with state academic standards.
- Design and implement data collection systems and tools to assess, monitor progress, adjust and plan instruction, and refer and place individuals with disabilities in special education based on their unique abilities and needs.
- Identify, design, and implement evidence-based instructional models and specially designed instruction in math, literacy, content areas, social, behavioral, communication, language, and secondary transition domains in inclusive and more restrictive environments.
- Identify and apply biblical, professional, and ethical practice and law.
- Synthesize, evaluate, and conduct educational research and apply technology integration to enhance instruction and learning.
- Apply a personal special education philosophy based on an integrated biblical worldview.
Career Paths
A Master’s degree in Special Education with a focus on instruction equips you with advanced skills in designing individualized learning plans, adapting curricula, and supporting diverse learners, opening doors to roles beyond traditional teaching. These careers span K-12 education, higher education, administration, advocacy, and consulting. Common careers include:
- Special Education Teacher: Lead instruction for students with disabilities in inclusive or self-contained classrooms.
- Special Education Administrator/Director: Oversee special education programs at district or school levels, ensuring compliance and quality.
- Instructional Coordinator/Curriculum Specialist: Design and implement specialized curricula for special needs students.
- Educational Consultant: Advise schools, districts, or families on best practices for special education instruction.
- Behavior Analyst/Interventionist: Develop and implement behavior support plans based on instructional data.
Admission Requirements
All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:
- Application: Submit the Application for Admission along with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using code faithmatters, and we will waive the fee.
- Personal Testimony: Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (250-500 words)
- Statement of Purpose: This program is a significant time commitment. In 500 words, explain how you have evaluated your readiness to manage competing responsibilities and priorities while pursuing this degree, as well as how obtaining this degree aligns with your long-term goals.
- Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to Cairn University.
The Statement of Purpose and transcript requests can be submitted via the student portal once you submit the application.
Tuition and Aid
Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by Cairn faculty and not TAs.
The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is $580/credit for full-time status. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.
Christian school educators and employees may be eligible for the $400/credit discounted rate. Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
Accreditation Information
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Cairn University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
“Being involved with the Special Education program has provided me the opportunity to form many meaningful and impactful relationships with peers and mentor teachers who have opened their classrooms to me. There couldn’t be enough said about Professor Cooper, who always made herself available for guidance, mentorship, and prayer. Special Education is always viewed through a biblical lens, which allows everyone to be viewed as God’s unique and perfectly designed creation..”
– David F.
FAQs
What is the experience like?
Our program is intentionally grounded in God’s Word. Courses are thoughtfully designed by Cairn faculty to promote deep learning and active engagement through instructor-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful interactions with peers and faculty. At Cairn, the students’ education and experience is designed to shape Christian character, cultivate wisdom, and prepare them to think, live, and serve biblically in an ever-changing world.
All courses, except the research courses, are structured in seven units and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms.
Each unit contains 5–7 modular activities, including:
- Assigned readings and reading reflections
- Instructional videos from Cairn faculty
- Active learning activities
- Weekly application projects
- A component of the ongoing course research project
Faculty also schedule a few optional Zoom sessions throughout the term to connect with students and address questions.
Faculty are actively involved throughout the week—guiding learning activities, leading asynchronous discussions, grading work, and delivering personalized feedback. Online students also receive priority technical support and have access to valuable resources from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.
Is financial aid available?
Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to this page for details.
Please note that international students are not eligible for financial aid.
Is advanced standing available for Bible and theology courses?
Advanced standing may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.
When can I start the program?
There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.
Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.
Next Steps
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Interested in our Instruction (MS in Special Education) degree? Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!
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