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Advance Your Career
All admits to the Special Education MEd or Special Education Endorsement Certificate will receive a 30% tuition discount for the duration of the program.
START YOUR APPLICATION TODAYAbout the MEd in Special Education at Loyola
The MEd in Special Education is a graduate program designed to prepare you to serve as a licensed special education teacher in Illinois. Whether you see yourself supporting students in inclusive classrooms, resource settings, or specialized programs, you will develop the instructional expertise, assessment skills, and professional values needed to help students with disabilities thrive academically, socially, and behaviorally.
As a long-standing partner of Chicago-area and Illinois school districts, Loyola University Chicago offers a practice-based curriculum grounded in real classroom experience. Through a learn-and-earn apprenticeship model, you will remain embedded in your school community while completing coursework and clinical experiences under the mentorship of experienced special educators. With Loyola’s nationally respected School of Education, you will build the confidence and competence to lead inclusive, equity-centered learning environments that make a lasting difference for students and families.
This program pathway includes both the Special Education Endorsement Certificate (Learning Behavior Specialist I – LBS1) and the option to complete a full Master of Education degree.
This program is offered through partnerships with participating school districts and is designed for candidates currently employed in those districts. Admission is limited to individuals working as teaching assistants in a partner district and supported by their employer through a formal agreement with Loyola University Chicago.
Program Structure
The Special Education Endorsement Certificate (LBS1) is a cohort-based program that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Coursework is delivered online in synchronous and asynchronous formats, with embedded in-person clinical apprenticeship experiences completed in your current worksite. Candidates progress through structured clinical steps—observation, co-teaching, and independent instruction—culminating in a supervised student teaching capstone experience. Candidates are assigned an in-district teacher mentor in accordance with an agreement with Loyola. Mentor teachers must have a current LBSI License and at least 3 years of teaching experience. Program faculty and staff meet with you, your building principal, and a mentor teacher to confirm support for the program before beginning, and to create a support agreement. Candidates must be working in a school district with a written letter of agreement with Loyola.
Candidates may be eligible for up to six hours of course credit based on documented work experience and approval from program faculty. These applicants may be eligible for life experience credit based on a review of prior experience and alignment with ISBE standards. If admitted, candidates will receive guidance on submitting supporting evidence for evaluation. Life experience credit applies only to the endorsement and cannot be used toward the M.Ed. degree. The M.Ed. requires 30 graduate credit hours. Up to 6 previously earned graduate-level credits may be considered for transfer, pending review.
Upon successful completion of the certificate, candidates qualify for the Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement.
The LBS1 Endorsement Certificate is designed for paraprofessionals currently employed in Illinois school districts who are seeking licensure in special education. This 24-credit-hour graduate certificate integrates coursework in assessment, curriculum adaptations, academic and behavioral intervention, and special education law with hands-on clinical practice. Candidates must also pass the LBS1 content exam and meet Illinois licensure requirements.
A key component of the program is the apprenticeship structure, which allows candidates to learn, earn, and apply new strategies immediately within their school settings while receiving ongoing faculty and mentor support.
Candidates who wish to earn a full master’s degree may complete additional graduate coursework beyond the 24-credit-hour certificate. The MEd pathway totals 30 credit hours and deepens preparation in areas such as psychology of learning and school-based consultation.
This option is ideal for educators who want to expand their leadership potential, advance their career opportunities, and strengthen their expertise in inclusive and culturally responsive special education practices.
Why Choose Loyola for the MEd in Special Education?
- Learn and earn in your own school community
- Fast and flexible
- Built-in mentorship and networking
- Licensure readiness
- Individualized student support
- An education grounded in equity and inclusion
Our apprenticeship-based model allows you to remain in your current school placement while completing coursework and clinical experiences. You will immediately apply what you learn through observation, co-teaching, and independent instruction under the guidance of experienced special education mentors.
Complete the LBS1 Endorsement Certificate in as little as 9–12 months, with the option to continue into the full MEd. Online synchronous and asynchronous coursework provides flexibility, while Loyola’s graduate policy allows up to six years for degree completion.
As part of a small, collaborative cohort, you will build lasting professional relationships with peers, faculty, and district partners. Embedded mentorship and strong school partnerships create meaningful networking opportunities that often lead to continued employment and leadership pathways.
Upon completion of the program and required examinations, you will be eligible for the Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with the Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement, preparing you to serve students with disabilities across inclusive and specialized settings.
You will benefit from dedicated School of Education faculty who are licensed special educators and scholars in assessment, behavior intervention, and inclusive practice. Faculty advisors and school-based mentors provide individualized feedback and guidance throughout the program.
Rooted in Loyola’s Jesuit mission, the program prepares you to advocate for students with disabilities and promote culturally responsive, inclusive learning environments. Through collaboration, reflective practice, and data-informed decision-making, you will help break down barriers and expand opportunities for all learners.
Teaching and Learning Department
The Department of Teaching and Learning is committed to transforming lives through teaching, learning, and research that aligns with our mission to promote racial justice and tackle complex societal challenges. Our graduates, shaped by a unique field-based curriculum, are highly sought after for their holistic, community-centered approach to driving transformative change in schools and local organizations. Learn more about the department and discover stories featuring current students and graduates from the School of Education.
Department WebsiteMeet the Faculty
Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the School of Education faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Special Education MEd program.
FacultyMEd in Special Education: Career Connections
Through Loyola’s Special Education MEd and LBS1 Endorsement Certificate program, you will be prepared with the specialized knowledge, clinical experience, and professional values required to support students with disabilities across inclusive, resource, and self-contained classroom settings. Graduates develop expertise in assessment, curriculum adaptation, academic and behavioral intervention, and special education law—skills that are in high demand across Illinois and nationwide.
The most common career path for program graduates is to become a licensed special education teacher (Learning Behavior Specialist I). However, the degree and endorsement can also prepare you for additional roles depending on experience, licensure, and continued professional development.
Specific job options include:
Licensed Special Education Teacher (LBS1)
Inclusion Specialist
Behavior Support Teacher
Case Manager
Transition Coordinator
Instructional Coach (with experience)
Special Education Department Chair (with experience)
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center, as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.
Curriculum and Program Outcomes
While courses for the Special Education MEd program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.
Additionally, this resource will provide Special Education MEd learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.
2026-2027 Catalog
Browse Academic CatalogMEd in Special Education Results and Skills
Upon successful completion of the MEd in Special Education or LBS1 Endorsement Certificate, you will have demonstrated your ability to:
Design and implement individualized instruction aligned to students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals
Use assessment data to inform academic and behavioral interventions
Adapt curriculum and learning environments to support diverse learning needs
Apply knowledge of special education law and professional practice to advocate for students and families
Collaborate effectively with general educators, specialists, administrators, and families
Implement evidence-based academic and behavioral supports across inclusive and specialized settings
Engage in reflective practice and data-based decision-making to improve student outcomes
Put your professional values into practice in ways that promote equity, inclusion, cultural responsiveness, and social responsibility
Costs, Scholarships, and Aid
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
Tuition and Costs
| Program | Credit Hours | Cost Per Credit Hour | Estimated Tuition and Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education MEd | 30 | $1,115.00 | $33450.00 |
| Special Education Endorsement Certificate | 24 | $1,115.00 | $26760.00 |
All admits will also receive a 30% tuition discount for the duration of the program.
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
TEACH Grant
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program provides up to $4,000 per year in grants for graduate and undergraduate students who intend to teach full-time in high-need subject areas for at least four years at schools that serve students from low-income families. The amount a student receives will be based on their enrollment (e.g. full-time, 3/4-time, 1/2-time, or less-than-1/2-time). For more information, see the TEACH Grant webpage.
School of Education Financial Aid & Scholarships
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost and Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education. You may also visit the School of Education Scholarships page for detailed information about eligible scholarships.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
More information about financial aid opportunities can be found on the Financial Aid Office website.
Appointments and Events
Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.
Schedule an AppointmentThe School of Education offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.
View all EventsUpcoming Events
Visit and Connect With Us
With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.
Application Process
This program has multiple versions you can apply to. Find specific information about the application process for each option below. Both the MEd and Speical Education Endorsement Certificate include the Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Special Education MEd are listed below:
Summer: Rolling admission
For Fall 2026 only, this program will accept Fall entry term applications. The Fall 2026 deadline is August 1.
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Special Education MEd include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
1 Letter of Recommendation
2.75 Minimum GPA
Resume/CV
Statement of Purpose
Work Experience
Paraprofessional Educator License
Applicants should have a letter of employment from the district with a specific paraprofessional-related job title. Applicants must have a copy of their current paraprofessional license from the State Board of Education (ISBE).
Statement of Purpose Details
Applicants should submit a 2-3 page statement addressing the following prompt:
Describe your professional experiences working with learners with disabilities and/or in educational settings. Explain your motivation for pursuing the Special Education MEd program and your career goals in special education. Discuss how your prior education, experiences, and skills will support your success in graduate study and future professional practice.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Special Education Endorsement Certificate are listed below:
Summer: Rolling admission
For Fall 2026 only, this program will accept Fall entry term applications. The Fall 2026 deadline is August 1.
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Special Education Endorsement Certificate include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
1 Letter of Recommendation
2.75 Minimum GPA
Resume/CV
Statement of Purpose
Work Experience
Paraprofessional Educator License
Applicants should have a letter of employment from the district with a specific paraprofessional-related job title. The district must have a Standing Letter of Agreement with Loyola. The Letter of Recommendation should be from a Building Administrator. Individuals interested in receiving prior learning credit (“life credit”) will have the opportunity to submit additional documentation after being admitted to the program.
Prerequisite Standing Requirements
This program requires specific work experience, which can be satisfied with any of the following documentation:
A current letter of employment from the school or district (on official letterhead)
A recent pay stub showing employer name and position (you can redact your salary information)
A copy of an employment contract or appointment letter
A verification form completed by the employing school or district
Documentation of active employment status through district HR
Statement of Purpose Details
Please address the following questions:
Why are you interested in earning your Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBSI) licensure?
How does this program align with your professional goals in special education?
Describe a challenge you’ve faced in supporting students with disabilities and what you learned from it.
Official Documents
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended. Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts (with U.S. educational credentials) sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.
International Applicant Requirements
An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived, and unofficial transcripts will not be accepted for international applicants.
Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.
Start Your Application
Applying online to the Special Education MEd program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.
APPLY TODAY