Driven by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting all members of society—particularly individuals with disabilities who require specialized services to develop essential skills and achieve positive integration into society—the University of Tabuk established the Department of Special Education within the College of Education and Arts in the 2008–2009 academic year (1429–1430 AH). The department initially launched a Bachelor’s degree program to prepare qualified national professionals in the field.
In response to growing community needs and the continuous advancement of Special Education, and in alignment with the Kingdom’s strategic vision for developing this discipline, the department expanded its academic offerings by introducing the Master of Special Education program. The program includes several specialized tracks: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, and Learning Disabilities.
The department welcomed its first cohort of master’s students at the beginning of the 2020–2021 academic year (1441 AH).
Mission:
To provide an academically and research-oriented learning environment that prepares highly qualified professionals with advanced knowledge and practical competencies in Special Education, while promoting high-quality research that responds to community needs and aligns with national priorities.
To be eligible for admission to the Master of Special Education program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a Saudi national, or, if a non-Saudi applicant, hold an official scholarship for graduate studies. Hold one of the following qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from a Saudi university or another recognized institution, with a minimum overall grade of Very Good.
A Diploma in Special Education from a Saudi university or another recognized institution, with a minimum overall grade of Very Good.
A Bachelor’s degree in Education or a General Diploma in Education, provided the applicant successfully completes any prerequisite courses specified by the department.
Pass the written admission examination administered by the department.
Achieve a minimum score of 60 on the General Aptitude Test for University Graduates. If employed, obtain official approval from the employer to pursue graduate studies.
Submit two academic recommendation letters from faculty members who have previously taught the applicant.
Objectives
Meet the growing demand from graduates of Special Education programs who wish to pursue postgraduate studies.
Prepare highly qualified specialists in the various fields of Special Education.
Equip researchers with the knowledge and skills needed to address the needs of educational institutions serving individuals with disabilities and special needs.
Support the University’s mission of community service by addressing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and contributing to evidence-based solutions through research and scholarly studies.
Enhance students’ specialized knowledge and professional competencies by keeping pace with the latest developments in Special Education and related support services, while strengthening their research capabilities.
