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Nova Southeastern University's fully online Master of Science (M.S.) in Developmental Disabilities helps professionals advance their careers while developing specialized knowledge to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Whether you're looking to expand your skills, take on greater leadership responsibilities, or pursue new opportunities in disability services and human services, this graduate degree prepares you to address complex challenges and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.
Designed for working professionals, NSU's flexible online program can be completed in as little as 18 months. Through a career-focused, research-informed curriculum, you'll build expertise in developmental disabilities, advocacy, disability services, program development, family support, and community-based services. You'll learn to coordinate resources, develop and evaluate programs, address issues affecting individuals and families, and apply evidence-based practices that promote independence, inclusion, self-determination, and quality of life.
Graduates may pursue career advancement opportunities in disability services, human services, advocacy, program management, community outreach, and family support. Potential roles include Disability Services Coordinator, Disability Advocate, Program Manager, Family Support Specialist, and Early Childhood Developmental Specialist. These professionals work across nonprofit organizations, community agencies, educational settings, government programs, advocacy organizations, and other services that support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Build the knowledge and skills to strengthen disability services, advance your career, and create meaningful opportunities for individuals and families.
The Master of Science in Developmental Disabilities program at Nova Southeastern University provided me with tremendous knowledge and ability to serve individuals and families affected by developmental disabilities. In my role as a nurse practitioner, I use the information gained in this program on a daily basis.
Sheresa Campbell | M.S. Developmental Disabilities
Quick Facts
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Developmental Disabilities?
Prepare for a rewarding career in private, public, and nonprofit sectors as a:
- Program Director/Coordinator
- Early Childhood Interventionist
- Developmental Specialist
- Case Manager
- Child Life Specialist
- Vocational Counselor
M.S. in Developmental Disabilities Curriculum
This graduate degree offers a comprehensive curriculum that examines different developmental
disabilities, the challenges disabled individuals face during their life, and the
support systems they depend on. Gain a scholarly foundation to build on as you focus
your degree with a concentration. Apply what you learn to real-life cases and settings
through fieldwork opportunities.
This master's program comprises 30 credits: 21 credits (7 courses) of core curriculum and 9 credits (3 courses) of a specialty concentration. If you wish to prepare for national certification, additional practicum or internship courses may be required.
To see real-time course offerings, view NSU’s entire course catalog on Course Wizard.
Required Courses (21 Credits)
Credits
Concentration Tracks
Garner an understanding of different theoretical perspectives on aging and disability; how students with developmental disabilities experience higher education and how to better access outcomes; and how to help those with developmental disabilities live independently and thrive in society.
Curriculum
Required Courses for Concentration(9 Credits Total)
Credits
Build a foundational understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), including core principles, introductory assessment strategies, and practical applications to support behavior and learning in your current role. This concentration is designed to enhance professional practice and does not lead to certification. Students interested in pursuing certification in Applied Behavior Analysis are encouraged to explore the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis program.
Required Courses For Concentration (9 Credits)
Credits
Gain an understanding of child life practices within pediatric health care; ethical
issues within pediatric health care; working with families in health care settings;
theories regarding child and adolescent development; and other theories and practices
that are necessary to learn to provide care in a pediatric health care setting.
Curriculum
Choose Three Courses (9 Credits)
Credits
Elective Clinical Training
Credits
*Students seeking CLS certification must complete a minimum of nine (9) courses (27 credit hours) to a maximum of twelve (12) courses (36 credit hours) in the Child Life concentration.
The Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) has pre-approved these courses toward Child Life Professional Certification Examination requirements. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements before they can be deemed eligible to take the examination. Learn more about certification requirements at https://www.childlife.org/certification.
Learn how to treat young children with developmental disabilities and provide early intervention so they can overcome difficulties and thrive. Also learn about the historical and current practices in integrating students with developmental disabilities into the classroom.
Curriculum
Required Courses for Concentration (9 Credits Total)
Credits
Gain a comprehensive understanding of grant writing and learn how to effectively develop critical-thinking and writing skills; how public policies affect people with developmental disabilities and their access to services; and current trends affecting disability policies and policy making.
Curriculum
Required Courses for Concentration (9 Credits Total)
Credits
Additional Information
Students seeking to establish eligibility for the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) exam have the option of taking additional courses as needed in the Child Life Specialist concentration.
Related Degrees
Looking for a degree that will allow you to better your organization or community? Check out these programs.
M.S. in Education—Exceptional Student Education
Gain the specialized knowledge and skills to serve K–12 students with disabilities or work in a disability-specific field. 36 credits to complete; offered completely online.
Prepares you to:
Advocate for those who need it most
Be an expert in a specific disability category or combination of categories
M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis
Designed to meet the academic requirements of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and the certification standards of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), this degree equips you with the knowledge, experience, and professional readiness to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. The M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis 30-36 credit hours and offered completely online.
Admission Requirements
Ready for the Next Step?
We’re thrilled you’re applying to NSU’s M.S. in Developmental Disabilities degree program.
Applications for admission are accepted online and on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year.
Have the following items ready to submit with your online application:
- $50 application fee
- Transcripts from all schools attended
You will also be asked to complete an interview conducted virtually or via telephone.
Applicants who have attended foreign universities or colleges are required to have their academic credentials evaluated for U.S. institutional equivalence. Please visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services for more information. International students are encouraged to contact the Office of International Student Services at (954) 262-7240 or 844-701-3925, ext. 27240, or by email at intl@nova.edu, or visit the Office of International Students and Scholars.
