From elementary to high school, many students require more than traditional instruction to succeed. They need educators who are compassionate, skilled, and committed to equity in the classroom. If you feel called to uplift learners and advocate for every student’s right to succeed, Bay Path University's 100% online Master of Science in Special Education or EdS Education Specialist program is the pathway for you.
Our mission is to nurture your passion and turn it into purpose, preparing you to be an agent of change in today’s schools.
Why Choose Bay Path for Your MS in Special Education?
Recognized for Excellence
Bay Path’s MSEd/EdS programs have been nationally recognized by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for their excellence in licensure exam preparation and student support. We're proud to be:
- One of only nine institutions in Massachusetts recognized for outstanding educator support.
- The only school in Western Massachusetts with this distinction.
- A proven launchpad for successful careers—our alumni lead classrooms across the state and beyond.
Financial & Academic Support
To tackle the nationwide teacher shortage, Bay Path has been awarded $200,000 in state funding directly benefiting our Special Education students through:
- Free workshops and tutoring support.
- Vouchers to cover MTEL registration fees.
- Personalized guidance from enrollment to graduation because we believe no student should be held back by barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do you offer MTEL preparation?
Yes. Bay Path University’s educator preparation programs offer various ways candidates can prepare for MTELs (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure). Learn more.
- Can I really do this? Can I manage the coursework while balancing family, work, and school?
Juggling work, school, and family isn’t easy, but it’s possible with good time management and communication. This program does require regular work each week, so it’s important to stay on top of things, but instructors are open to working with students if something unexpected comes up.
- Can I complete my practicum experience in my own school/classroom?
Yes, in most cases, you can, as long as your current setting aligns with the requirements for the specific special education license you are pursuing. Keep in mind that the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education also requires a portion of practicum hours to be completed in an inclusive setting for both moderate and severe licenses.
Our Special Education Degrees
The Master of Science in Education/Special Education
The Master of Science in Education/Special Education degree is for individuals with previous degrees who wish to work with students with special needs. Our program concentrations focus on current issues in special education, best practices for inclusive education, including law nondiscriminatory assessment, issues of cultural and linguistic diversity, classroom and behavioral adaptations, integration of new technologies, and how to collaborate with families and service providers.
Education Specialist (EdS)
The Education Specialist is a postgraduate degree unique to the field of education, which is considered more advanced than a master’s degree but generally requires less coursework than a PhD or EdD. For professionals who already have a master’s degree, an EdS is an excellent pathway to reach the next level without the time or cost required for most doctoral degrees.
Bay Path's Master's Degree (MSEd/EdS) in Special Education Options:
Bay Path's Graduate Certificates in Special Education Options:
