Special education teachers fulfill an important role in the educational system, helping students with learning, emotional, physical, and mental disabilities learn and grow to achieve their full potential. While a bachelor’s degree in special education will prepare students for entry-level jobs, earning a master’s in this field can open up new employment opportunities and increase earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be, on average, 33,500 new job openings for special education teachers annually through 2032. The median annual salary for special education teachers is $65,910, with the top 10% of earners making over $106,000 per year.
To help students find the best program for their needs among the many options available, Intelligent.com curated this list of the best online master’s in special education programs. We also interviewed Blanca Villagomez, a program coordinator and counselor at UC-Irvine, for her insight into how to choose the right program and answers to frequently asked questions about online master’s degrees.
What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Special Education Degree?
As a field, special education is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. Pursuing a master’s in special education offers a specialized focus on this vital area of education, setting it apart from other education-related master’s degrees. This degree equips educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to address diverse learning needs, adapt curricula as needed, and provide individualized support to students with disabilities.
Within the field of special education, you’ll find a few different types of master’s degrees, including:
- Master of Education (M.Ed.): This degree typically emphasizes practical teaching strategies, classroom management, and curriculum development tailored to special needs students.
- Master of Arts (MA): This degree often focuses on the theoretical foundations of special education, research methodologies, and policy analysis, offering a broader perspective on the field.
- Master of Science (M.Sc): This degree may delve into more data-driven and scientific approaches to understanding and addressing disabilities, emphasizing research and data analysis.
Choosing the correct type of master’s degree depends on your career goals and interests, whether you aim to become a classroom teacher, a researcher, or an advocate for policy change.
Common curriculum elements for a master’s in special education include foundational courses covering topics such as inclusive teaching strategies, assessment methods, and laws related to special education; a research and assessment component to help students understand and address the unique needs of students with disabilities, and a fieldwork experience, such as student teaching.
When it comes to online learning, courses are delivered either synchronously or asynchronously. “Synchronous courses, which have live virtual classes, facilitate engagement more easily,” Villagomez says. “Some professors require students to keep their video cameras on to encourage participation and interaction. Meanwhile, with asynchronous courses, it may require more effort to stay engaged, as there are no scheduled class meetings.”
“Regardless of modality, online degree programs require a high level of self-motivation, effective time management, and structured independent study,” she says. “I recommend students create a consistent routine by identifying their optimal hours for attending classes, completing coursework, and studying to stay on track with their deadlines.”
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in special education program
- Foundational and Current Issues in Special Education: A critical study of the contemporary and controversial issues within the field of special education, with consideration given to the philosophical, psychological, and sociological basis of teacher education. It includes an analytical review of research-based curricula, programmatic innovations, policy issues and their effects, and ethical practices.
- Inclusive Classroom Practices: Provides a comprehensive study of theoretical issues and research-based diagnosis, instructional planning, and programmatic organization of instruction for children with disabilities in inclusive environments. Topics include curriculum design, development of programs of differential instruction involving evidence-based interventions that meet students’ needs based on formative assessment, developmental and educational information; integrated learning experiences; specialized adaptations and resources, and more.
- Special Education Law and Policy: Provides an overview of the legal rights of students and their families in special education and explores the source, history, and current status of special education law.
Mental Health Literacy: Introduces the concept of social, emotional, and behavioral wellness for PK-12 students and teaches students how to describe and define Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, and mental illness, including how such experiences and conditions can impact the growth, development, and learning of children and adolescents.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Special Education degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 49 Online Master's in Special Education Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
University of Kansas
Intelligent Score: 99.96In-state: $10,092
Out-of-state: $26,960
In-state: $9,989
Out-of-state: $9,989
SAT: 1070-1320
ACT: 22-29
$595
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
30
Florida State University
Intelligent Score: 97.97In-state: $4,640
Out-of-state: $19,084
In-state: $9,684
Out-of-state: $9,684
SAT: 1220-1350
ACT: 27-31
In-State: $444
Out-of-State: $1,076
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
University of Virginia
Intelligent Score: 97.82In-state: $15,772
Out-of-state: $49,819
In-state: $17,076
Out-of-state: $17,076
SAT: 1320-1510
ACT: 30-34
$622
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
30
Michigan State University
Intelligent Score: 96.89In-state: $15,555
Out-of-state: $40,384
In-state: $18,858
Out-of-state: $18,858
SAT: 1100-1300
ACT: 23-29
$933
Online, Hybrid
Higher Learning Commission
30
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 96.76In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
$576
Online
Higher Learning Commission
31
George Mason University
Intelligent Score: 96.60In-state: $9,510
Out-of-state: $32,970
In-state: $12,594
Out-of-state: $12,594
SAT: 1100-1300
ACT: 24-30
$805
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
30
Indiana University
Intelligent Score: 95.43In-state: $9,815
Out-of-state: $36,194
In-state: $9,786
Out-of-state: $9,786
SAT: 1120-1350
ACT: 24-31
In-State: $500
Out-of-State: $600
Online
Higher Learning Commission
36
Ball State University
Intelligent Score: 95.33In-state: $9,482
Out-of-state: $26,470
In-state: $9,328
Out-of-state: $9,328
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $464
Out-of-State: $696
Online
Higher Learning Commission
30
Clemson University
Intelligent Score: 94.75In-state: $14,118
Out-of-state: $37,110
In-state: $10,600
Out-of-state: $10,600
SAT: 1210-1390
ACT: 27-32
$515
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
33
University of Central Florida
Intelligent Score: 94.53In-state: $4,478
Out-of-state: $19,810
In-state: $6,916
Out-of-state: $6,916
SAT: 1160-1340
ACT: 25-30
In-State: $327
Out-of-State: $1,152
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
33
PennState World Campus
Intelligent Score: 94.24In-state: $15,025
Out-of-state: $24,413
In-state: $22,464
Out-of-state: $22,464
SAT: 1070-1300
ACT: 24-29
$1,017
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
33
University of Georgia
Intelligent Score: 93.95In-state: $9,790
Out-of-state: $28,830
In-state: $8,878
Out-of-state: $8,878
SAT: 1250-1460
ACT: 29-33
In-State: $427
Out-of-State: $1,182
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
36
University of Arizona
Intelligent Score: 92.50In-state: $10,990
Out-of-state: $33,273
In-state: $11,938
Out-of-state: $11,938
SAT: 1090-1350
ACT: 21-29
$653
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University
36
Touro University Graduate School of Education
Intelligent Score: 92.49In-state: $18,283
Out-of-state: $18,283
In-state: $12,618
Out-of-state: $12,618
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$670
Online, On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
36-42
CUNY Hunter College School of Education
Intelligent Score: 92.16In-state: $6,930
Out-of-state: $14,880
In-state: $11,090
Out-of-state: $11,090
SAT: 1170-1340
ACT: 25-31
Resident: $470
Non-Resident: $855
Online, On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
36
University of Washington
Intelligent Score: 90.61In-state: $10,629
Out-of-state: $37,998
In-state: $16,278
Out-of-state: $16,278
SAT: 1200-1453
ACT: 27-33
$589
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
45
National University
Intelligent Score: 88.55In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
In-state: $15,480
Out-of-state: $15,480
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$442
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University
54
University of North Texas
Intelligent Score: 87.36In-state: $8,295
Out-of-state: $18,111
In-state: $6,350
Out-of-state: $6,350
SAT: 1050-1240
ACT: 20-27
Resident: $353
Non-Resident: $450
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
33
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Special Education?
For most students, earning an online master’s in special education is a pathway to employment or advancement as a special education teacher.
Depending on the program, it can provide students with the necessary education for teaching certification. Requirements for certification are determined at the state level, with differing coursework, exams, and practical experience requirements. Therefore, the state in which you earn your degree can significantly impact your certification process and where you can work as a special education teacher. Some states offer reciprocity agreements, easing the certification process if moving between states.
Beyond classroom roles, individuals with a master’s in special education may be qualified for administrative positions, such as special education coordinators, who help develop and implement curriculums and infrastructure for special needs students, and school counselors, who provide support to students facing physical, behavioral, and mental health challenges. This degree also provides a solid foundation for doctoral-level study in special education, curriculum and instruction, or educational leadership.
Career outlook
- Special education teachers — Work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities by adapting general education lessons and teaching various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities.
- Median annual salary: $65,910
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 0%
- New jobs projected: 33,500 per year
- Instructional coordinators — Oversee school curriculums and teaching standards; develop educational material, implement it with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness.
- Median annual salary: $74,620
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 2%
- New jobs projected: 19,200 per year
- School counselors and advisors — Help students understand and overcome social or behavioral challenges; analyze data to identify factors, such as poor attendance, that negatively affect academic performance, and work with students to develop skills that support learning.
- Median annual salary: $61,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 26,600 per year
Best States for Teaching Careers
Education career opportunities span all 50 states, although employment and annual salary vary widely.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Rhode Island has the nation’s highest-paid teachers, with an annual median salary of $119,840. Meanwhile, Indiana has the lowest median yearly salary, at $48,320.
The U.S. is currently experiencing a shortage of trained, qualified teachers, with some experts estimating as many as 55,000 open teaching positions in the country. The need is most acute in the South Atlantic and East South Central regions of the U.S.
| State | Annual median wage | Employment per 1,000 jobs |
| Alabama | $55,770 | 51.40 |
| Alaska | $75,360 | 62.77 |
| Arizona | $60,140 | 48.76 |
| Arkansas | $55,020 | 57.37 |
| California | $80,940 | 56.21 |
| Colorado | $61,640 | 52.31 |
| Connecticut | $78,610 | 75.69 |
| Delaware | $62,110 | 62.17 |
| District of Columbia | $86,380 | 45.16 |
| Florida | $57,350 | 43.51 |
| Georgia | $61,100 | 57.06 |
| Hawaii | $59,670 | 65.26 |
| Idaho | $54,600 | 56.29 |
| Illinois | $64,390 | 60.66 |
| Indiana | $57,740 | 50.61 |
| Iowa | $53,960 | 69.15 |
| Kansas | $51,820 | 62.60 |
| Kentucky | $56,440 | 51.17 |
| Louisiana | $56,650 | 57.24 |
| Maine | $59,560 | 64.91 |
| Maryland | $73,160 | 60.71 |
| Massachusetts | $80,050 | 67.05 |
| Michigan | $61,830 | 50.27 |
| Minnesota | $61,680 | 56.69 |
| Mississippi | $48,900 | 59.42 |
| Missouri | $58,570 | 56.89 |
| Montana | $56,950 | 57.55 |
| Nebraska | $62,320 | 57.19 |
| Nevada | $57,310 | 36.87 |
| New Hampshire | $62,500 | 60.78 |
| New Jersey | $71,820 | 67.83 |
| New Mexico | $63,170 | 60.86 |
| New York | $82,760 | 74.08 |
| North Carolina | $55,550 | 56.84 |
| North Dakota | $57,560 | 57.98 |
| Ohio | $65,840 | 58.40 |
| Oklahoma | $50,540 | 58.09 |
| Oregon | $72,820 | 54.46 |
| Pennsylvania | $68,610 | 58.92 |
| Rhode Island | $73,160 | 66.28 |
| South Carolina | $57,030 | 49.76 |
| South Dakota | $47,220 | 57.99 |
| Tennessee | $55,990 | 47.83 |
| Texas | $61,140 | 59.59 |
| Utah | $58,870 | 56.33 |
| Vermont | $63,650 | 89.62 |
| Virginia | $64,880 | 61.08 |
| Washington | $73,610 | 54.21 |
| West Virginia | $56,950 | 61.11 |
| Wisconsin | $60,260 | 55.17 |
| Wyoming | $54,050 | 72.17 |
**Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
How to Choose the Online Master’s in Special Education Degree That’s Right for You
Step 1: Choose your area of study
Many graduate special education programs offer students the opportunity to tailor their education to their unique interests and career goals. For those passionate about working with children on the autism spectrum, the autism specialization equips them with the tools needed to make a profound impact. Those interested in addressing learning difficulties might opt for the learning disabilities specialization. Meanwhile, a concentration in behavioral disorders is ideal for those who wish to concentrate on handling challenging behaviors.
Step 2: Research schools and programs
Now that you have clarified your intended specialization and preferred learning format, thorough research is essential to find the right master’s in special education program.
Accreditation should be the first checkpoint, as it ensures program quality, eligibility for federal funding, and employment opportunities in the future. According to Villagomez, students should verify that both the institution as a whole and the specific special education program are accredited. “With institutional accreditation, colleges are evaluated as a whole and must achieve several standards to receive a regional or national accreditation,” she says. “Programmatic accreditations evaluate the quality and legitimacy of the specific degree programs offered at institutions.” Students should select a college that has regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting body and a program with programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
During the research process, ask yourself questions like:
- Does the program offer my desired specialization?
- Is it offered online, and if so, is it synchronous or asynchronous?
- What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
- What resources, like libraries and research databases, are available for online students?
You can gather information by visiting school websites, attending virtual open houses, contacting program coordinators, reading student reviews, and seeking insights from current or former students.
Step 3: Prepare for applications and tests
Begin by reviewing each school’s specific requirements and deadlines. It’s wise to start the process early — gathering the necessary documents and writing an engaging personal statement that illustrates your qualifications and career goals. If the program requires the GRE, consider enrolling in a test prep program to enhance your scores.
Be sure to proofread all application materials carefully to ensure they are error-free and effectively convey your qualifications. By staying organized and dedicating time to each application, you will increase your chances of securing admission to the program of your choice.
Step 4: Select your program
Once your acceptance letters have arrived, it’s essential to prioritize each program’s alignment with your unique career goals. Consider how each program will prepare you for your desired career path — will this program help or hinder your professional growth? Don’t forget to evaluate tuition costs and financial aid options to be sure you’re making an informed financial decision. If you’re pursuing teaching, ensure that the program meets state-level certification requirements in your state.
Step 5: Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
“Financial aid varies greatly across institutions, but there are key types of aid available across private and public institutions, including grants, scholarships, fellowships, work-study, and loans,” Villagomez says. “To determine what type of need-based aid you’re eligible for, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as this is how schools assess you and your family’s financial contributions and capacity. I recommend meeting with financial aid offices at the schools you’re interested in to ask any questions you may have and get a clear understanding of the types of aid they offer.”
For students who need to borrow federal student loans to help pay for their online master’s in special education, there are loan forgiveness programs like Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which can help students eliminate loan payments after a certain period of time.
Another option students can consider is employer tuition assistance if they are working while earning their master’s degree. Specific benefits vary, but typically employers will reimburse students for some or all of their education expenses after they successfully complete a course or program.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs
Should I get a master's in special education degree in person or online?
The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances and learning preferences. Online learning is often the best choice for working professionals or individuals with significant responsibilities as it allows for greater flexibility, enabling you to balance your education with other commitments. However, it requires substantial self-discipline and managing your time effectively.
On the other hand, in-person learning is typically better suited for traditional students who thrive in a physical classroom environment and value face-to-face interaction with their professors and peers.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your lifestyle, learning style, and personal circumstances. Assess your needs, responsibilities, and preferences to determine which learning mode — either online or in person — best supports your academic and career goals.
What are the admissions requirements for an online master's in special education degree?
Specific admissions requirements will vary depending on the institution, but here are some standard admissions requirements for an online master’s in special education degree:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA (usually around 3.0, but some programs may have slightly higher or lower requirements)
- Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Resume or CV
- GRE scores (varies depending on the program)
Some programs may require a teaching certification and prefer applicants with relevant professional experience.
Says Villagomez, After conducting research on degree programs and schools, you should have an understanding of their admission requirements. With all these requirements, it’s important to stay organized with a comprehensive and detailed checklist to track your progress, submit all required materials, and meet deadlines. I encourage students to decide what systems help them organize the application requirements and track their progress for each school.”
What is the average cost of an online master's in special education degree?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a graduate degree at public colleges was approximately $12,596 and $29,931 for the 2021-22 academic year. Tuition rates are typically lower at public institutions because they receive funding from state governments, while private universities rely more on tuition and donations.
How long does it take to complete an online master's in special education degree?
The duration to complete your graduate degree will vary depending on the following factors:
- Delivery Format: Typically, full-time programs take around 18 months to two years, while part-time programs can extend to two and a half to three years.
- Full-Time vs. Part-Time Enrollment: Full-time students often complete their degrees more quickly. In contrast, part-time students spread their coursework over a more extended period to accommodate other responsibilities.
- Accelerated Programs: Some online programs offer accelerated options, allowing students to graduate in as little as 12 to 18 months. However, these programs may require a heavier courseload and a faster pace of study.
Ultimately, the exact timeline will depend on the specific program, your chosen course load, and your ability to balance coursework with other commitments.
How hard is an online master's in special education degree?
The degree of difficulty for an online master’s in special education depends on several factors. For students who have teaching experience, the coursework will likely build on existing skills and knowledge, while those who are entering the field will be tasked with learning foundational as well as advanced concepts.
Students will also have to decide how to balance schoolwork and field experiences with other obligations, especially if they are working or caring for family members while earning their online master’s degree. Time management, organization, effective study habits, and seeking assistance when needed are important to helping students progress through their programs and successfully complete all requirements for earning their master’s in special education.
Is an online master's in special education degree worth it?
Earning your online master’s in special education is especially worth it for those seeking to advance their careers in this field. However, many individuals assess the potential Return on Investment (ROI) to better understand how their degree will be financially worth it in the future.
To assess the potential ROI for a specific program, you should consider:
- Total program cost
- Expected salary upon graduation
- Opportunities for career advancement and pay increases
- Loan repayment
- Time to break-even
By conducting this analysis, you can make an informed decision about the potential ROI of your degree and whether it will align with your long-term career and financial goals.
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