E3: Effective Evidence-based Education

What is E3?

Capitalizing on UNM’s exceptional faculty, course offerings, and professional network, E3 is fully-funded master’s program that prepares new, highly qualified special education teachers to improve literacy and mathematics achievement for students with disabilities. At the end of this two-year program, scholars will earn a Master of Arts degree from UNM and be eligible for initial licensure in special education in New Mexico.

Who should apply?

Apply if you:

  • Would like to pursue teaching licensure and a master’s degree in special education
  • Would like to pursue a master’s degree in special education
  • Meet the minimum qualification for admission into the Master of Arts in Special Education at the University of New Mexico (i.e., hold a bachelor’s degree and have a 3.2 GPA or higher)
  • Are willing to work as a special education teacher for at least four years upon program completion

Read what currently and past students have to say about the program.

What is the program like?

The E3 Program:

  • Begins in the spring semester
  • Is two-years long
  • Includes part-time and full-time enrollment across the fall, spring, and summer semesters
  • Includes late afternoon and evening classes

What supports are provided?

E3 Students will benefit from:

  • A cohort of peers
  • Faculty and peer mentoring
  • Online and in-person learning

E3 Students will receive funding for:

  • Tuition and fees
  • Technology and course materials
  • Professional conference membership
  • Professional conference attendance
  • Licensure exam fees and study course

How do I apply?

  • Complete a Graduate Application at https://www.unm.edu/apply/.
  • Submit a transcript from each college you have attended.
  • Submit a letter of intent. Within your letter of intent, indicate that you would like to be considered for the E3 Program.
  • Complete the MA Special Education Application form. Please upload the completed form in the Professional Biographical Form section of the Application Fields.
  • Submit the names and contact information for three professional references who are willing to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf.

Application Deadline

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Early applications will receive best consideration. The deadline to be considered for the 2027 E3 Cohort is October 31, 2026.

Questions: Reach out to Dr. Allison Nannemann at nannemann@unm.edu.

Want to learn more?

If you are interested in learning more about the E3 Program, please register for one of our virtual information sessions (links and details below).