Program overview

Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TOSD) certification and the Master of Arts in Special Education are 100% online programs designed to prepare certified teachers to teach students with special needs in a variety of settings. Special education teachers have expertise that makes them confident in their ability to work with students with special needs. They are experts in meeting the challenges of diverse classrooms and provide support for students and their families.

Program highlights

The fully online format is made to fit your busy schedule.

Program features

  • Online learning communities with academic and technical support from Rider faculty
  • Examination of disability classifications and characteristics of learners
  • Identification of Evidence Based Practices to support learners with disabilities
  • Research in current issues and practice in special education
  • Integration of theory and practice through field experiences and applications
  • National accreditation and recognition
  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
  • Augmentative and Assistive Technology (AAT)
  • Support for students with disabilities in transition to adult life
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Education building with flowers in front of it.

Curriculum requirements

A Pathway to Three Professional Qualifications

Upon completion of the Teacher of Students with Disabilities certification, teachers need only three additional courses to complete the online M.A. in Special Education. Upon completion of the M.A., teachers need only three additional courses to complete the Reading Specialist Certification. Please note the New Jersey Department of Education has proposed changes to the Reading Specialist certification requirements. If these changes are approved, students in the Reading Specialist program may need to complete the program and apply to the NJ Department of Education for the Reading Specialist endorsement by August 31, 2025. If you have any questions, contact your academic advisor.

Courses are offered 100% online to fit your busy schedule. 

Meet the challenges of diverse classrooms

Teachers will develop their expertise and become confident in their ability to work with students with special needs. 

A teacher helping a student with special needs.

Alumni success

Student stories are the best testament to the value of a Rider education.

David Eggert '18, '20 (Elementary Education, B.A.; Special Education, M.A.)

“The Masters of Arts in Special Education program has truly transformed the way I instruct and assess students in the classroom. From cross-cutting concepts to real world applications, I feel that the research, application, and real-world experience of faculty enhance the educational program for all students. I have found that when we moved to online instruction was as engaging and supportive as the face to face classroom!” 

Frequently asked questions

For more information, please see the special education handbook (PDF).

Contact

Diane Casale-Giannola

Professor

Undergraduate Teacher Education

Bierenbaum Fisher Hall

dgiannola [at] rider.edu

609-896-5078

Academic Focus: Undergraduate Teacher Education

Education building with flowers in front of it.