Harding University

Programme overview

The Master of Education in Special Education Administration is a 30-hour, hybrid graduate programme designed to be completed in about two years. The programme includes two semesters of internships, requires compilation and defence of a professional portfolio aligned with Arkansas and national accreditation standards, and must be finished within six years of admission.

What you'll study

Students complete a 30-hour plan of study that incorporates two semesters of internship experience. Academic progression requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in graduate work with no grade lower than a C (only six semester hours of C credit are permitted). After the portfolio defence, students complete an exit survey prior to graduation.

Entry requirements

• Complete the online application and submit official transcripts.
• Two professional or academic recommendations addressing potential for success and professional background; one recommendation must be from the principal and specifically address: support for participation in the programme; statement that the applicant is performing at the level of an effective educator; and examples of the applicant’s leadership abilities.
• Upload a copy of current educator license.
• Upload Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) immunization record.
• Upload a resume.
• Provide documentation of at least one year of licensed teaching experience (signed contract or letter on official letterhead). For this programme that experience must be in special education teaching, speech‑language work, or guidance counseling.
• Applicants with undergraduate cumulative GPAs between 2.5 and 2.99 may be considered provisionally; GRE scores may be requested if GPA is below 3.0.
• An admission/advising interview with the program director will be conducted by phone, virtual conference or face‑to‑face.
• Provide documentation of Science of Reading Awareness (Phase I) as described by the Prescribed Pathway Credentials; if not completed at admission, it must be completed before finishing the programme.
• Note: To be eligible for licensure upon program completion, applicants must have three years of licensed teaching experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for administrative roles in special education settings and for pursuing state licensure in special education administration. The programme’s internship sequence and portfolio defence provide practice in leadership, supervision and programme evaluation relevant to school districts and special education departments.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Harding University lists cost and course schedules on its Graduate Studies in Education pages and offers information on scholarships and financial aid; prospective students should consult the Graduate Studies in Education office and the university’s financial aid resources for current funding options and cost of attendance details.