FAQs about the Combined B.A./B.S. – M.Ed. in Special Education

Admissions 

Who may participate in the Combined B.A./B.S. – M.Ed. in Special Education Program? 

Loyola undergraduate students who wish to be licensed teachers may participate in a five-year program resulting in a bachelor's degree in their chosen major and an M.Ed. in Special Education.

What are the admission requirements? 

• Completed online application with $60 application fee (waived when you attend a virtual info session) 
• One professional/academic letter of recommendation 
• Optional resume 

When should I apply? 

Apply before March 15th of your junior year of undergraduate study. 

How do I apply? 

Online Application or download application: grad.loyola.edu/apply.

On the online graduate application, select that you are a Loyola student and then select the 5th year program. Also, you must select the start term immediately following your anticipated undergrad graduation date on your application (e.g., if you are graduating undergrad in the Spring, you must select the Summer start term for the M.Ed. in Special Education program).   

Your application fee will be waived by the Graduate Admissions Office.  

For application questions: Please contact us at education@loyola.edu or 410-617-2990.  

Loyola University Maryland School of Education's M.Ed. in Special Education program is fully approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to offer undergraduate and graduate programs. This approval covers initial teacher preparation programs and advanced educator programs.  

Program 

What content areas does Loyola University Maryland offer for Teacher Licensure in Special Education?  

The M.Ed. in Special Education offers two licensure pathways. The elementary/middle program leads to initial licensure in Special Education, grades 1-8.  The secondary/adult program leads to initial licensure in Special Education, grades 6-adult. 

Where are courses taken during senior year? 

All courses are held online. 

What happens if I do not have three undergraduate elective courses to substitute for graduate courses? 

There are different options for students. There is the possibility that you can take a sixth course during the semester. Also, you may be able to take a graduate course the summer before your senior year (not covered under undergraduate tuition).   

Students also have the opportunity to just take one or two graduate courses during their senior year, but they will have to take and pay for more courses during the Special Education program.   

Contact the Teacher Education program for guidance at educationoperations@loyola.edu. 

When will I begin the remaining graduate courses? 

You will take M.Ed. in Special Education courses on a full-time basis beginning the semester following undergraduate graduation, typically the summer semester. 

Will I graduate with my bachelor's degree? 

Yes, you will graduate at the end of your senior year. 

When will I graduate with my M.Ed. in Special Education and complete the approved teacher licensure program? 

Most students graduate with their M.Ed. in Special Education one year following undergraduate graduation.   

I am already minoring in Special Education. Is this program for me? 

It depends.  

If you are majoring in elementary education and minoring in special education, this program is not for you. Your current program is a dual licensure pathway that leads to the same licensure as the Combined B.A./B.S. – M.Ed. in Special Education. 

If you are majoring in another subject (other than elementary education), this program could be for you! The Combined B.A./B.S. – M.Ed. in Special Education program would lead you to initial licensure in Special Education. 

Internship Experience 

How many days per week are required for the Internship? 

Loyola’s Special Education program includes an in-person internship sequence that consists of a part-time internship (Internship I) and a full-time internship (Internship II).  

Financial Aid

What is the cost of the program? 

The three graduate courses taken during senior year (in place of electives) are included in the undergraduate tuition. To view the current graduate tuition, please visit our financial aid and tuition website.   

Is there any financial aid assistance available? 

Yes. Loyola University Maryland works with numerous financial aid programs to assist students with their educational expenses. To learn more about scholarships, loans, and other financing options, please contact the office of graduate financial aid at 410-617-5205 or visit our financial aid website.