The need for special education teachers is urgent, especially in urban areas including Chicagoland.  Research findings indicate that a shortage of special education teachers disproportionately affects minority students, particularly in urban school districts like Chicago that have large majorities African American and Latino students.  Join UIC educators in our quest to ensure that every student, particularly those in urban schools, receives access to an inclusive education that fosters social and academic growth and prepares students for a successful transition out of school services.  Students in the MEd Special Education program also have unique access to the SPEDUCATORS Network to engage with fellow students and alumni in career and social opportunities.

The program welcomes students entirely new to teaching, current teachers new to special education, current special education teachers and students seeking new knowledge about special education but who are not interested in teacher licensure or Illinois endorsements.