Why Special Education?

A degree in special education is a transformative pursuit for those called to serve individuals with disabilities. It provides the expertise to teach, support, and advocate for students facing unique challenges while opening doors to diverse career paths. This degree equips graduates for service that glorifies God as we prepare educators to guide students with grace, compassion, and biblical wisdoPursuing a degree in special education is a transformative journey for those who are called to support individuals with disabilities. This program provides the knowledge and skills necessary to teach, support, and advocate for students with unique challenges, while also opening up diverse career opportunities. Graduates are prepared to serve in ways that honor God, guiding students with grace, compassion, and biblical wisdom.

Our program not only emphasizes academic excellence but also fosters spiritual growth, equipping graduates with both the expertise and Christ-centered character needed to thrive in the field of special education. Whether in classrooms, counseling families, or engaging in ministry, our graduates are empowered to make a lasting impact while upholding biblical values.m. Our program emphasizes not only academic excellence but also spiritual growth, cultivating graduates with both the skills and the Christ-centered character needed to excel in the field of special education. Whether teaching in classrooms, counseling families, or contributing to ministry, graduates are empowered to make a lasting impact while upholding biblical values.

Liberal Studies Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an advanced baccalaureate-level working knowledge in written communication, literature, and/or spoken communication skills.
2. Demonstrate an advanced baccalaureate-level working knowledge in at least two of the following subject areas within the science and mathematics disciplines: mathematics, biological sciences, physical sciences, kinesiology, and computer information systems.
3. Demonstrate an advanced baccalaureate-level working knowledge in at least three of the following subject areas within the social science disciplines: history, political studies, geography, business, social science, health, and physical education.
4. Demonstrate an advanced baccalaureate-level working knowledge in at least two of the following subject areas within the humanities and fine arts disciplines: music, art, theater, philosophy, and foreign language.
5. Identify and analyze the interrelationships existing between the various academic disciplines.

Special Education Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and design teaching techniques and strategies for the specific subject areas included in California classrooms, with specific focus on students with disabilities.
2. Demonstrate a strong working knowledge of the diverse dimensions of student characteristics, with specific focus on students with disabilities.
3. Demonstrate a strong working knowledge of legislation and issues related to special education.

A Growing Need

Special education is a profound calling that seeks to empower individuals with disabilities—whether physical, cognitive, emotional, or developmental—to fulfill their God-given potential.

• A Growing Need: The demand for skilled special education professionals continues to rise as schools and organizations strive to meet the diverse needs of their students. This creates significant opportunities for those called to this meaningful work.
• Transform Lives: Through this work, you will make a lasting impact on students and their families, helping them overcome challenges with excellence and compassion.
• Develop Valuable Skills: Deepen your skillset in patience, adaptability, and problem-solving—skills that are vital not only in this field but also valuable in all aspects of life and ministry.
• A Stable Career Path: As awareness of disabilities increases, so does the need for professionals in this field. This offers a stable, meaningful career path with opportunities for growth and service.

At The Master’s University, we believe that special education is more than a career—it is a ministry. This field provides a unique opportunity to serve others while reflecting Christ’s love and commitment to every individual.

School Partnerships

Our program is tailored for aspiring special education teachers and those passionate about supporting children with disabilities through a distinctly Christian lens.

Students gain foundational knowledge with introductory teaching skills, offering comprehensive, Scripture-based coursework. Graduates are well-prepared to transition seamlessly into TMU’s teaching credential program. To provide valuable hands-on experience, students have access to partnerships with local schools and community programs (see the list below), offering real-world opportunities to engage with students with special educational needs. The program allows students to customize their learning by using elective units to explore regular education courses from the School of Education. This flexibility broadens their expertise, equipping them to teach and support children in diverse educational settings effectively.

With Legacy Christian Academy, Faith Christian School PSP, and Grace Academy all part of TMU’s affiliated family of ministries, TMU graduates are highly sought after by top local schools and school districts and find opportunities within our network of ministries.

Every student’s experience, whether in kindergarten or college, is primarily shaped by the attitude and skill of their teacher. With this truth in mind, we recognize both a profound responsibility and an incredible opportunity. Our School of Education graduates play a pivotal role in teaching and guiding the next generation. We aim to equip our students with the wisdom and practical skills to excel in their profession and serve as beacons of righteousness.

Drawing upon a biblical worldview, our faculty, who collectively possess over a century of classroom experience, provide instruction that elucidates the methodologies employed in the classroom. Additionally, our programs offer hands-on experiences that prepare students to hit the ground running in their first teaching positions.

Our graduates are highly sought after in public and private elementary and secondary schools. We have established strong partnerships with schools both locally and internationally. We offer a flexible undergraduate pathway for students seeking a well-rounded education or transferring credits from previous college coursework.

To succeed in our advanced baccalaureate-level program, students must demonstrate proficiency across various disciplines. This entails mastery of both written and oral communication, an appreciation for literature, and specialized knowledge in the sciences, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, and fine arts.

Students must understand the interconnectedness between academic subjects and be able to design effective teaching techniques tailored for K-8 elementary school classrooms in California. Moreover, a comprehensive knowledge of the diverse characteristics of K-8 students is paramount.

What’s Unique About This Program

TMU’s programs reflect a steadfast commitment to biblical principles and spiritual growth, distinguishing them in the field of education.

• Grounded in Biblical Truth: We affirm that every individual is created in God’s image, so our curriculum uniquely emphasizes each person’s inherent worth and dignity. This foundational truth shapes our commitment to education.
• Ethics Informed by Scripture: Educators are trained to apply biblical principles of service, humility, excellence, and love in their professional lives. These truths guide our decision-making and advocacy, ensuring a Christ-centered approach to addressing students’ diverse needs.
• A Community of Faith: Our students benefit from a Christ-centered learning environment where faculty and peers share their commitment to biblical values. This Christian community fosters collaboration, accountability, and spiritual growth, thereby creating a dynamic environment for personal and professional development.
• Focus on Character Development: Beyond academic and professional training, our programs emphasize cultivating a Godly character of kindness, perseverance, and integrity,  enriching educators’ ability to serve their students holistically—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

Career Paths

A degree in special education equips believers with the tools to serve students with disabilities while honoring Christ’s call to love and shepherd others. This field offers diverse opportunities to make a meaningful impact, whether working directly with students or influencing broader educational systems.

• Special Education Teacher: Serve in public or private schools by designing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.
• Behavior Analyst: Develop strategies based on proven methods to address behavioral challenges, enabling students to thrive socially and academically.
• Occupational Therapist: Help students acquire essential skills for daily living and academic success, affirming their God-given abilities.
• Speech-Language Pathologist: Work with students facing communication challenges, helping them express themselves and engage meaningfully with others.
• Educational Consultant: Provide guidance to schools or organizations in supporting students with disabilities.
• Advocate or Case Manager: Stand in the gap for students and families, ensuring access to needed resources.
• Nonprofit or Ministry Roles: Use your skills in faith-based organizations, aligning your work with your calling to serve those in need.

Working in special education is rewarding and challenging, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Moments of triumph—like seeing a student master a new skill—serve as powerful reminders of the value of your work. Careers in this field span diverse settings, from classrooms and clinics to homes and community programs, with some roles involving collaboration or travel. Constantly evolving through new research, special education remains a dynamic and intellectually stimulating profession. Collaboration is at its core, as you’ll work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to create the best student outcomes. With a strong job outlook and growing demand for skilled professionals, the field offers stability and ample opportunities for specialization or leadership, making it an ideal space for long-term growth and fulfillment.