Special Education (B.A. and M.A.T.)
Elevating every learner with focus and compassion
Make a lasting impact as an educator with a degree in Special Education from National Louis University. Through practical theory, evidence-based instruction, and an understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities, you’ll learn how to support students with disabilities and meet the needs of diverse learners.
We Believe in your best
Learn with us and discover who you can be with a B.A. or M.A.T. in Special Education from National Louis University.
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national college of education
empowering educators since 1886
Graduates of NLU’s National College of Education are equipped to make a positive impact in the field of special education while pursuing careers like:
- Special Education Teacher
- Disability Services Coordinator
- Behavior Specialist
- Occupational/Physical Therapy
- School Administrator
- Adaption Specialist
360+
Special education positions reported by chicago public schools as of july 2025.
What To Expect
focused learning through individual needs
License to teach
Complete a pathway that can lead to a Professional Educator License (PEL) with the Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement, qualifying you to teach in K-12 special education settings across Illinois. Depending on your degree path and goals, M.A.T. students may also pursue LBS2 or Early Childhood Special Education approval.
support from day one
NLU is committed to building a diverse, passionate community of special educators equipped to meet the needs of all learners. We offer personalized support in the form of academic advisors and success coaches, as well as other innovative resources to help you thrive.
Flexible learning formats
Choose from on-campus, synchronous online, or fully asynchronous online formats designed to fit your schedule and location, depending on your degree path and course availability.
growth and connection
NLU’s partnerships with school districts, education centers and community organizations connect you with real-world learning environments through observation, student teaching and internship opportunities that help you apply what you’re learning in practice.
Real Questions. Straight Answers.
Still wondering if NLU’s Secondary Education (B.A. and M.A.T) program is right for you? Let’s address the things that matter most.
What is the difference between the B.A. and M.A.T. in Special Education?
The B.A. is designed for students beginning their undergraduate path toward becoming a special education teacher, while the M.A.T. is designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree and want to pursue teacher licensure at the graduate level.
Will this program help me become licensed to teach special education?
Yes. Students can earn a Professional Educator License with a Learning Behavior Specialist I endorsement, qualifying them to teach in K–12 special education settings across Illinois.
What special education endorsements or approvals are available?
Pathways may include Learning Behavior Specialist I, Learning Behavior Specialist II or Early Childhood Special Education approval, depending on the degree path and student goals. An Enrollment Specialist can help confirm which option is the best fit.
The next step in your teaching career starts here.
Connect with NLU to learn more about enrolling today.