Master in Exceptional Student Education, M.A.

The deadline to apply for the Jan 2027 intake is Oct 1, 2026. Tuition fees are 15,863 USD per year.

The Master in Exceptional Student Education, M.A. at University of South Florida is for students who want to help children with special needs. This 2-year Master degree helps you understand how to teach students with disabilities.

The curriculum includes subjects like special education law, behavior management, and teaching methods. You will develop skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and working with families. You will also get hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork.

After graduating, you can work as a Special Education Teacher, Education Consultant, Disability Support Specialist, Inclusive Education Coordinator, or a Teacher Mentor. You can work in schools, non-profit organizations, or government agencies, making a difference in the lives of children with special needs.

University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, founded in 1956, is a large, urban public research university with a dynamic and diverse student body of nearly 50,000. USF’s location in a vibrant metropolitan area blends academic life with internship and employment possibilities across finance, healthcare, technology, and the creative industries. The campus is known for its research intensity and community partnerships that connect students to real-world challenges.

USF provides an extensive range of academic programs—about 460 offerings—across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels, enabling students to pursue interdisciplinary pathways and specialized study. The international community of nearly 4,700 students benefits from comprehensive services including dedicated international advising, language support, orientation, and cultural programming. Strong co-op and internship networks help translate academic learning into career outcomes.

Prospective international students will find a supportive environment with scholarship options, career development centers, and resources for housing and health services. Tampa’s diverse economy offers numerous experiential learning and employment opportunities, while USF’s emphasis on research and innovation supports students aiming for graduate study or industry roles. USF is well suited for students who want a metropolitan university experience with extensive academic and professional resources.