• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Coursera
  • Online Degrees
  • Careers
  • Log In
  • Join for Free
    Coursera
    • Browse
    • Special Education

    Special Education Courses Online

    Study special education for supporting students with disabilities. Learn about instructional strategies, individualized education plans, and inclusive practices.

    Skip to search results

    Filter by

    Subject
    Required
     *

    Language
    Required
     *

    The language used throughout the course, in both instruction and assessments.

    Learning Product
    Required
     *

    Build job-relevant skills in under 2 hours with hands-on tutorials.
    Learn from top instructors with graded assignments, videos, and discussion forums.
    Learn a new tool or skill in an interactive, hands-on environment.
    Get in-depth knowledge of a subject by completing a series of courses and projects.
    Earn career credentials from industry leaders that demonstrate your expertise.
    Earn career credentials while taking courses that count towards your Master’s degree.
    Earn your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree online for a fraction of the cost of in-person learning.

    Level
    Required
     *

    Duration
    Required
     *

    Skills
    Required
     *

    Subtitles
    Required
     *

    Educator
    Required
     *

    Explore the Special Education Course Catalog

    • C

      Commonwealth Education Trust

      Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Professional

      Skills you'll gain: Teaching, Professional Development, Lifelong Learning, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Professionalism, Personal Development, Education and Training, Willingness To Learn, Pedagogy, Instructing, Working With Children, Collaboration, Leadership

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      211 reviews

      Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of Michigan

      Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education

      Skills you'll gain: Higher Education, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Leadership, Strategic Planning, Initiative and Leadership, Cultural Diversity, Social Justice, Cultural Responsiveness, Accountability, Advocacy, Collaboration, Creative Thinking, Ethical Standards And Conduct

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      296 reviews

      Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • T

      Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

      Patenting in Biotechnology

      Skills you'll gain: Intellectual Property, Chemistry, Legal Risk, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Keyword Research, Molecular Biology, Strategic Thinking, Database Management Systems, Technical Writing, Research Reports, Databases

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      238 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of California, Davis

      Adaptability and Resiliency

      Skills you'll gain: Adaptability, Resilience, Professional Development, Overcoming Obstacles, Self-Awareness, Cognitive flexibility, Emotional Intelligence, Personal Development, Relationship Building, Plan Execution, Crisis Management, Goal Setting

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      591 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      Universidad de los Andes

      ¿Cómo convertir mi idea en empresa?

      Skills you'll gain: User Feedback, Entrepreneurship, Business Development, New Business Development, Product Development, Customer Analysis, Business Planning, Market Opportunities, Product Design, Value Propositions, Needs Assessment, Customer Insights, Business Strategies, Product Testing

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      478 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      The Neuroscience of Personal Excellence

      Skills you'll gain: Resilience, Personal Development, Persistence, Decision Making, Self-Awareness, Problem Solving, Self-Discipline, Cognitive flexibility, Emotional Intelligence, Adaptability, Stress Management, Human Learning, Mental Health, Psychology, Neurology, Behavioral Health, Goal Setting

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      65 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      T

      Tecnológico de Monterrey

      Innovación y emprendimiento

      Skills you'll gain: Innovation, Business Modeling, Design Thinking, Creative Problem-Solving, Entrepreneurship, Brainstorming, Business Architecture, Corporate Strategy, Creative Thinking, Business Strategy, Business Process, Storytelling, Cognitive flexibility, Business Strategies, New Business Development, Team Management, Open Mindset, Value Propositions, Lean Methodologies, Organizational Development

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      378 reviews

      Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Biology Everywhere

      Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Human Development, Biology, Life Sciences, Environment, Chemistry, Environmental Issue, Child Development, Environmental Science, Environmental Resource Management, Music, General Science and Research, Decision Making, Natural Resource Management, Oncology, Liberal Arts, Education and Training, Environmental Policy, Psychology, Scientific Methods

      4.5
      Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
      ·
      350 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

      Professional IQ: Preventing and Solving Problems at Work

      Skills you'll gain: Active Listening, Influencing, Negotiation, Leadership, Professional Development, Social Skills, Personal Development, Conflict Management, Decision Making, Persuasive Communication, Relationship Building, Business Ethics, Professionalism, Leadership Development, Communication, Strong Work Ethic, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Interpersonal Communications, Empathy, Business Leadership

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      126 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • U

      Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

      Comprendiendo a la discapacidad en entornos universitarios

      Skills you'll gain: Disabilities, Education and Training, Student Support and Services, Differentiated Instruction, Special Education, Instructional Design, Diversity Awareness, Higher Education, Interpersonal Communications, Student Engagement, Advocacy

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      86 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • E

      EDUCBA

      VFX with Adobe After Effects from Novice to Expert

      Skills you'll gain: Adobe After Effects, Motion Graphics, Animations, Post-Production, Computer Graphic Techniques, Video Editing, Timelines, 3D Modeling, Color Theory, Typography, Design Elements And Principles

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      143 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • U

      University of Michigan

      Community Organizing for Social Justice

      Skills you'll gain: Community Organizing, Social Justice, Community Development, Diversity Awareness, Discussion Facilitation, Community Outreach, Cultural Diversity, Interpersonal Communications, Conflict Management, Program Evaluation

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      322 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Special Education learners also search

    Education
    E-learning
    Educational Technology
    Online Education
    Public Policy
    Systems Thinking
    Logic
    Library
    1…454647…163

    In summary, here are 10 of our most popular special education courses

    • Foundations of Teaching for Learning: Being a Professional: Commonwealth Education Trust
    • Leading for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education: University of Michigan
    • Patenting in Biotechnology: Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
    • Adaptability and Resiliency: University of California, Davis
    • ¿Cómo convertir mi idea en empresa?: Universidad de los Andes
    • The Neuroscience of Personal Excellence: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Innovación y emprendimiento: Tecnológico de Monterrey
    • Biology Everywhere: University of Colorado Boulder
    • Professional IQ: Preventing and Solving Problems at Work: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
    • Comprendiendo a la discapacidad en entornos universitarios: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

    Frequently Asked Questions about Special Education

    Special Education is the practice of teaching students in a way that addresses their individual differences and special needs. It’s often applied to teaching those with intellectual, mental, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, physical, and learning disabilities. It also applies to teaching students with special talents or abilities.

    In an education climate where just 17 percent of general-education teachers feel “very well prepared” to teach children with issues like ADHD and dyslexia, the need for quality Special Education skills and knowledge is very important. Teachers who focus on Special Education play an important role in advancing the confidence and success of special-needs students.‎

    There are a wide variety of opportunities available for learners interested in Special Education, from teaching to jobs in healthcare and government. Some roles include Special Education Teachers, Special Education Teacher’s Assistant, Special Education Program Coordinator, Speech Pathologist, Audiologist, Early Intervention Special Educator, Lobbyist, and related specializations.‎

    Courses on Special Education offered through Coursera provide learners with fundamental information on how various common disabilities affect areas of learning, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD); hearing, visual, and intellectual disabilities; ADHD and other learning disabilities; and more.

    Lessons in these courses are administered via lectures, readings, quizzes, reflections, and discussions.‎

    An interest in people with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities is the main prerequisite to starting to learn special education. Many people who want to work in special education already have some experience in the field of education, whether they've worked as a teacher, teaching assistant, or daycare worker. You can also gain some experience by volunteering to work with children, particularly children who have special needs. Special education teachers and specialists typically work with children of all ages, ranging from preschool through high school.‎

    People who work in special education need to be patient and even-tempered. Because you'll be working with children or adults with special needs, they may be slower or quicker than average to accomplish tasks. Creativity is also important. Children with special needs may not do well with traditional teaching methods, so you'll need to find unique ways to deliver information. You'll also need to be compassionate and accepting since you'll be working with people who have physical, mental, or emotional disabilities. Like any type of teacher or person who works with children, you'll need to be organized, intuitive, and able to adapt to any situation. It's also important to have a calming presence. Many children, including those with special needs, are overwhelmed by the classroom environment and being away from home. Those who work in a school environment need to be willing to collaborate with a team as well. You'll be working with other teachers, teaching assistants, administrators, and parents to make sure all children receive the best possible education.‎

    Anyone who wants to work with people with special needs and is interested in working in a school setting may be suited to learn about special education. Even if you have a child in your own family with special needs, learning about special education may help you better understand them and even help them advance despite any disabilities. If you've ever thought about becoming an advocate for people with special needs, learning special education and applying it to your career or volunteer work can help you go further. If you're already a teacher or teaching assistant, and you're looking for a way to specialize or advance your career, learning special education can help add new skills to your resume and potentially find more advanced jobs in your field.‎

    Online Special Education courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Special Education skills. Choose from a wide range of Special Education courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.‎

    When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Special Education, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

    Other topics to explore

    Arts and Humanities
    338 courses
    Business
    1095 courses
    Computer Science
    668 courses
    Data Science
    425 courses
    Information Technology
    145 courses
    Health
    471 courses
    Math and Logic
    70 courses
    Personal Development
    137 courses
    Physical Science and Engineering
    413 courses
    Social Sciences
    401 courses
    Language Learning
    150 courses

    Coursera Footer

    Technical Skills

    • ChatGPT
    • Coding
    • Computer Science
    • Cybersecurity
    • DevOps
    • Ethical Hacking
    • Generative AI
    • Java Programming
    • Python
    • Web Development

    Analytical Skills

    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Big Data
    • Business Analysis
    • Data Analytics
    • Data Science
    • Financial Modeling
    • Machine Learning
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Power BI
    • SQL

    Business Skills

    • Accounting
    • Digital Marketing
    • E-commerce
    • Finance
    • Google
    • Graphic Design
    • IBM
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Social Media Marketing

    Career Resources

    • Essential IT Certifications
    • High-Income Skills to Learn
    • How to Get a PMP Certification
    • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
    • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
    • Popular Data Analytics Certifications
    • What Does a Data Analyst Do?
    • Career Development Resources
    • Career Aptitude Test
    • Share your Coursera Learning Story

    Coursera

    • About
    • What We Offer
    • Leadership
    • Careers
    • Catalog
    • Coursera Plus
    • Professional Certificates
    • MasterTrack® Certificates
    • Degrees
    • For Enterprise
    • For Government
    • For Campus
    • Become a Partner
    • Social Impact
    • Free Courses
    • ECTS Credit Recommendations

    Community

    • Learners
    • Partners
    • Beta Testers
    • Blog
    • The Coursera Podcast
    • Tech Blog
    • Teaching Center

    More

    • Press
    • Investors
    • Terms
    • Privacy
    • Help
    • Accessibility
    • Contact
    • Articles
    • Directory
    • Affiliates
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Do Not Sell/Share
    Learn Anywhere
    Download on the App Store
    Get it on Google Play
    Logo of Certified B Corporation
    © 2025 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
    • Coursera Facebook
    • Coursera Linkedin
    • Coursera Twitter
    • Coursera YouTube
    • Coursera Instagram
    • Coursera TikTok