Online Program Option

The online Special Education MEd in the College of Education and Human Development is ideal for full-time students, working professionals or students returning to the classroom while balancing work and family. Classes are taught by expert faculty and follow the same curriculum as our on-campus program option. Cutting-edge instructional technology emphasizes natural interactions with professors and other students, and gives you access to personalized instruction and advising.

Our faculty’s strong ties to the community bring real-world contemporary issues into the virtual classroom. Online students also have access to Temple’s libraries, Writing Center, Career Center and other resources.

Structure and Delivery

Students can complete the online Special Education MEd on a full- or part-time basis and have up to five years to complete the program.

Online courses incorporate two forms of learning.

• Asynchronous online learning, completed on students’ own time, using discussion boards, classroom demonstrations, recorded lectures, materials, digital resources, and other course experiences and assignments.
• Onsite fieldwork coordinated by Temple’s faculty.

Fieldwork

Special Education MEd students learn to integrate theory, hands-on skills and classroom experiences during onsite fieldwork at various points throughout the program. This includes field experiences, practica and student teaching. As an online MEd student, you will complete fieldwork at locations convenient to you. Placements will be coordinated on an individual basis in accordance with students’ locations and partnerships between Temple’s College of Education and Human Development and selected schools and districts. A variety of field experiences are required, including classroom placements across pre-kindergarten through grade 12 as well as with students having mild, moderate and severe disabilities.

Technology Requirements

Online students must have access to a reliable internet connection, as well as a computer or tablet with a keyboard and speakers. A webcam and a headset or microphone for your computer is recommended and may be required.

See a list of technology requirements for the online MEd program, including the most up-to-date software and hardware.

Clearances

State and federal criminal background checks, a TB test, and a child abuse clearance are required to be eligible to complete the online program. Applicants must complete and upload documentation of clearances prior to the start of their program. See required clearances for working in Pennsylvania schools.

Temple University is able to offer this online program through its participation in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement. Contact the program coordinator for additional information about the online program.

Faculty Program Coordinator

Julie Kessler, associate professor of instruction in the Teaching and Learning Department, is faculty program coordinator for the Special Education MEd online program option.
Email: jkessler@temple.edu 
Phone: 215-204-6038