• On-Campus Component
    Yes
  • Cost
    $10,632/semester (resident)
  • Total Credits
    49
  • Credential
    Graduate Degree
  • Admission GPA
    2.8
  • Application Deadlines
    Spring: Priority Nov 1, Final Dec 1 I Fall: Priority Apr 15, Final July 1
  • Campus
    Twin Cities
  • College
    College of Education and Human Development
  • Department
    Department of Educational Psychology

Each student with a disability has a unique set of academic, behavioral, social, emotional, communication and functional needs. The academic and behavioral strategist (ABS) licensure program prepares you to meet the needs of young people — kindergarten through age 21. 

The program prepares you to be recommended for an ABS license, which qualifies you to work with students in K–12 school systems with a broad array of mild to moderate disabilities in the following areas:

  • Autism spectrum disorders
  • Developmental and cognitive disabilities
  • Emotional or behavioral disabilities
  • Specific learning disabilities
  • Other health disabilities

Coursework

This is a hybrid program, meaning all courses are offered online (with traditional in-person options available if preferred) and all field experiences are in person at a program/school in your community.

The ABS licensure program with a MEd in special education requires completion of 50 credits. For additional licensure candidates (who already hold a teaching license in another area), fewer credits are required. For completion of a MEd only without licensure, 30 credits are required, with opportunities to select courses suited to your interests.

Tuition

Visit the College of Education and Human Development's Tuition and Financial Aid page for information on tuition.