Best Online Master’s in Special Education

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The field of special education is growing at a record pace in America. This growth is fueling demand for online Master’s in Special Education graduates.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 6.7 million American schoolkids suffered from some kind of disability in 2015-2016. That’s 13.2% of all students, up from 13 percent the year before. According the U.S. News and World Report, the field is expected to grow by 8% by 2026. This growth makes a Master’s in Special Education one of the best investments you can make for a college degree.

Not only that, but working in the field of special education is rewarding in its own right. These exceptional children face some of the biggest challenges of any students. Helping them become exceptional learners provides a great deal of satisfaction for many people.

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

What is an Online Master’s in Special Education Degree?

In the US, many teaching positions are available without a degree, depending on what state you live in. But special education presents unique challenges, so states almost universally require special education teachers in the field to have a graduate-level degree.

Special educators are responsible for teaching a classroom of special education students. These students primarily come from three groups: students with developmental disabilities, students with physical disabilities, and students with behavioral disabilities. You’ll need to balance the needs of all three groups in order to be successful.

An online Master’s in Special Education Degree is exactly what it sounds like—a master’s degree in Special Education that you can earn from your own home, on your schedule.

What are the differences in Education Master’s degree programs?

There are a few different options for online programs: 

  • Master of Arts in Education
  • Master of Education in Special Education
  • Master of Science in Education
  • Graduate Certificate programs

The main difference between these programs is the coursework. Master of Arts in Education programs focus on the classroom. If you want to work directly in learning environments with students with special needs, learning disabilities, or autism spectrum disorders, for instance, you’d want to get an MA in a special education program. If you want to focus on administration and policy, consider an online master of education, or MEd. Master of Science in Education is another classroom-focused degree that may include more research components. An online Master of Science in Special Education might focus on instructional strategies, research in behavioral disorders, behavior management, or applied behavior analysis. Graduate Certificates are best for teachers who are focused on getting their teacher licensure or teacher certification as quickly as possible. Most of these programs include a teaching practicum.

How Much Can You Earn With an Online Master’s Degree in Special Education?

Special education teachers require more training than the average teacher. As a result, it should come as no surprise that teachers who have completed a graduate program in Special Education earn more than teachers with a standard Master’s of Education.

Average earnings for Master’s in Special Education degree holders are $57,000 per year. Exact earnings will depend on your job. For example, kindergarten and early childhood special education teachers average only $47,000 annually, while directors of special education earn an average of $70,000 a year. You salary will depend on whether you work full time or part time, at a public school or a private school, and with young children or high school students. Your salary may depend on the needs of students. For instance, if you are teaching students with a “high incidence” disability, such as a severe disability or moderate disability, you may need more experience, and hence get a bigger paycheck.

You should also consider a general Master of Education degree, and if teaching young children sounds the most fulfilling to you, consider a Master’s in Early Childhood Education.

What is Required for an Online Graduate Degree in Special Education?

As with many educational programs, the exact admission requirements for a Master’s in Special Education will vary somewhat depending on the university. That said, there are a few qualifications most schools will require. These include:

  • A bachelor’s degree, typically a bachelor of education. Most master’s programs also require a teacher’s license, and some programs will accept licensed teachers without a bachelor’s degree.
  • A capstone project or thesis is typically required in order to graduate.
  • Most programs require a minimum amount of classroom experience before issuing a degree.
  • Most programs require you to complete a comprehensive exam before receiving your master’s degree.
  • Core courses in your bachelor’s focused on special education.
  • Work in this field requires a teaching license in almost all states.

Each special education degree program will vary. The more experience you earned during your bachelor’s degree the better. Good opportunities include student teaching, field experience, a completed teaching certificate, or coursework focusing on your desired field, such as completing special education online courses.

What are the Best Online Special Education Master’s Degrees?

To calculate which degree programs are the best, OSR uses six data points. Three of these are school-wide, and three are program-specific. This data-driven approach makes our ratings as objective as possible.

The school-wide criteria are student satisfaction, admission rates, and the total number of programs the school offers online. In terms of program-specific data points, OSR looks at median debt of program graduates, how many degrees are offered within the program’s department, and the percentage of the school’s enrolled students who graduate from that department.

For each school, you’ll see all six statistics displayed. For some schools, you’ll see “not reported” in one or more fields. This means the school did not report that data to the Department of Education. You’ll also see the average in-state and out of state tuition rate and how many credit hours are required.

To read a more detailed explanation of OSR’s ranking process, please visit our methodology page. Let’s find your perfect online degree!

 

Concordia University-Chicago

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Acceptance requires a teaching license
  • Graduation requires 2 years of classroom experience
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

6

Median Debt

$18,000

Programs in Department

21

Popularity at School

22%

100%OSR Score

Concordia’s online Special Education Master’s degree is a Master of Arts. The program takes a hands-on approach that emphasizes research and real-world classroom experience. Graduation requires you to earn an Illinois state teaching license, regardless of where you live. Courses at this school last eight weeks. Some courses you’ll take in this program include Instructional Strategies for Students with Learning and Behavioral Disorders, Assistive Technology Principles and Practices, and Psychology and Methods of Teaching the Exceptional Learner. Concordia is very military friendly. In addition to tuition for most military service members, this university also offers the “Top-Up” program which serves as another benefit to supplement other tuition assistance programs.

University of West Alabama

University of West Alabama

Quick Facts

  • 34 credit hours
  • Comprehensive exam required for graduation
  • Acceptance does not require a bachelor’s degree
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Programs Offered Online

13

Median Debt

$34,166

Programs in Department

9

Popularity at School

18%

93%OSR Score

The UWA online graduate school will admit any qualified certified teacher to their Master’s of Special Education program. Coursework is divided into two parts: 16 credit hours of instruction, and 18 credit hours of hands-on classroom experience. To graduate, you’ll need to pass a comprehensive examination. The course length at this university is only eight weeks. UWA does require a fingerprint screening as well as a verification of background clearance. Once you’re in the graduate program, you will be assigned a personal success coach who can help and answer any questions you may have.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

Quick Facts

  • 44 credit hours
  • Includes 15 weeks of student teaching
  • Accepts up to 12 hours of transfer credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Acceptance Rate

67%

Programs Offered Online

37

Median Debt

$32,720

Programs in Department

19

Popularity at School

11%

91%OSR Score

GCU places a lot of emphasis on hands-on experience. To earn a Master’s in Special Education from this school, you need to complete an immersive 15-week session of observed student teaching. The program is relatively comprehensive, covering administrative as well as educational areas of interest. You will be taught by expert adjunct staff and tenured professors who have years of experience in the field and can help you navigate through the special education procedures and laws. Some areas of study for this degree include classroom management strategies, developmentally appropriate teaching skills, and adaptation of learning materials for the least restrictive environment.

Ashford University

Ashford University

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Can take 1 class at a time
  • Does not require a teaching certificate for graduation
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Programs Offered Online

54

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

17%

86%OSR Score

Ashford University’s online Master’s in Special Education program allows you to take as few as one class at a time. On the one hand, it would take several years to earn a degree this way, but it’s an excellent option for a working adult. Graduation does not require a teaching certificate, so you can obtain one later if need be. In this program you’ll learn how to create and implement learning programs for exceptional students. You can earn transfer credits from your two or four year university programs as well as nontraditional credits from professional experience, military training, or national testing programs.

University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands

Quick Facts

  • 42 credit hours
  • Requires classroom teaching experience or passing PRAXIS score
  • Three levels of clinical work
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

74%

Programs Offered Online

15

Median Debt

$15,702

Programs in Department

14

Popularity at School

9%

85%OSR Score

University of the Cumberlands offers a Master’s in teaching with a Special Education concentration. This degree requires three levels of classroom clinical work. Admission does not require teaching experience, but it does require you to pass the PRAXIS exam if you’re a non-teacher. Passing will require you to obtain a Kentucky state teaching license. Some classes you will take with this degree are Classroom Behavior Management for Special Student Populations and Collaborative Curriculum and Transition Planning. This university has a program dedicated to military veterans called Troop to Teachers. Eligible individuals could earn bonuses of 10K to teach in schools with a high percentage of low-income families or up to 5K to help pay for teacher certification costs.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University

Quick Facts

  • 32 credit hours
  • Pay per term, not per credit hour
  • Graduation requires 240 hours of in-classroom experience
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

65%

Programs Offered Online

29

Median Debt

$12,268

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

12%

85%OSR Score

WGU’s online Master’s in Special Education degree is designed for teachers who want a ross-categorical program. You’ll be trained to teach students with mild to moderate disabilities in grades K–12. Since this school charges by the term, not by the credit hour, you’ll pay less the faster you complete your degree. Courses you’ll take in this program include Behavioral Management and Intervention, Psychoeducational Assessment Practices and IEP, and Foundations of Instructional Design. Passing the Praxis Subject Assessment is required for graduation at your own expense. Graduates of WGU Teachers College have been recipients of many professional honors like Gates Millennium Scholars and Association of Public Charter Schools Educator of the Year Award.

Mississippi College

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Intensive single-year program
  • Requires a teaching license for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

39%

Programs Offered Online

6

Median Debt

$23,833

Programs in Department

6

Popularity at School

11%

85%OSR Score

Mississippi College offers online courses in short, seven-week sessions. This allows you to start your degree at any time of year. If you take a full course load, you can graduate in as little as 10 months. Graduates of the program will be able to show their proficiency in Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) standards as well as plan effective goals and learning experience for groups of diverse learners. Courses you will take in this program include Characteristics of Students with Mild/Moderate Learning Problems, Organizational Procedures for Special Education, and Current Education and Psychological Testing Procedures.

Morningside College

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • 18 credit hours are elective
  • Accepts up to 9 transfer credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Median Debt

$17,314

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

15%

83%OSR Score

Morningside College’s Master’s in Special Education program is divided into two parts. The first is an 18-credit hour foundational set of courses that are required for all students. The second is composed of 18 credit hours of elective courses, so students can tailor their education to their own interests. A Praxis Core or GRE test is required for admission. This school also requires a criminal background check. You can choose between two track options for this degree; Learning Disabilities or Intellectual Disabilities or Behavior Disorders. The program recommends that you have three years of baccalaureate work, although it is not a requirement.

Emporia State University

Quick Facts

  • Program is designed for online students
  • Tailored for working professionals
  • Requires classroom experience for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

83%

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$25,899

Programs in Department

10

Popularity at School

19%

83%OSR Score

ESU’s Master’s in Special Education degree is offered entirely online. You can choose from two concentrations: Gifted, Talented, and Creative Concentration or High Incidence Concentration. You must pass the Graduate Essay Examination during your first term of enrollment. The High Incidence Concentration does not require this. It involves a lot of student teaching work, so working teachers will be comfortable with the program requirements. You will also be required to complete a master’s capstone project or a master’s level thesis. This school offers several scholarships and financial assistance for pre-service teachers including the Patterson Scholarship, TEACH Grant, as well as loan cancellation or deferment options for teachers. 

Campbellsville University

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • 4th most-affordable Christian college in the US
  • Requires a teaching certificate for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

10

Median Debt

$19,500

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

14%

82%OSR Score

Campbellsville University is an affordable Christian university located in Kentucky. That said, its online Master’s in Special Education degrees are available to students in all 50 states. Completion takes two years with a full course load. In this program, you’ll learn how to create a strong and effective learning environment for students with learning, behavioral, and emotional disorders. You will get hands-on experience in this program by identifying a learning issue with a group of students and research mediation methods specific to their needs. You will implement your approach and collect data that will be presented to someone within the district or your colleagues.

Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Field work is optional
  • Multiple emphasis programs
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

81%

Programs Offered Online

26

Median Debt

$29,467

Programs in Department

11

Popularity at School

9%

82%OSR Score

NAU’s Master’s in Special Education program is designed for those who want to enhance their skills and knowledge with teaching students with disabilities, those who want to serve these individuals through human service agencies, or in private settings. NAU offers four different emphasis programs to help you specialize your degree. These specialties are Positive Behavior Support, Cross-Categorical/High Incidence, Disability Studies, and Early Childhood. You’re not required to focus on a special emphasis area and you may choose more than one special emphasis area. An IVP Fingerprint clearance card is required for admission. You will not be able to get teacher certification with this program.

Union College

Quick Facts

  • 37 credit hours
  • Requires a teaching certificate for admission
  • $25 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

63%

Programs Offered Online

3

Programs in Department

7

Popularity at School

23%

80%OSR Score

Union College offers an online Master’s in Special Education degree that can prepare you for leadership opportunities in your school, classroom, or district. During the course of this program, you will develop the skills needed to analyze and find solutions for students with learning and behavioral disorders. You’ll learn how to do this through case studies, research opportunities, creating action research proposals, and clinical placements.  Student teaching time isn’t required for this program. Union College’s program is best suited for actively working teachers. Graduates of the program can apply to apply to the Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) for a Learning and Behavior Disorders Endorsement.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Multiple areas of concentration
  • No teaching license required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

80%

Programs Offered Online

19

Median Debt

$16,375

Programs in Department

11

Popularity at School

4%

80%OSR Score

This program is designed for students who already know what they want to do with their degree. NSU offers multiple concentrations, including Gifted Education, Early Intervention, and Mild/Moderate Special Education for Elementary, Middle, and Secondary school. This university is a good choice for students who have just finished their bachelor’s degree. This program does not lead to a license or certificate in any state, you must research your specific state requirements for this. NSU is very military friendly and has earned the 2019-20 Military Friendly School designation from VIQTORY, publisher of G.I. Jobs.

Niagara University

Quick Facts

  • 40 credit hours
  • Requires a teaching certificate for admission
  • Additional Advanced Certificate available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

84%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Median Debt

$28,684

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

27%

80%OSR Score

Niagara University’s online Master’s in Special Education is designed for working teachers. Courses are 100 percent online, and are available for all levels of education. In addition, Niagara offers an Advanced Certificate, and an Annotation in Severe & Multiple Disabilities if you’re intending to specialize. The annotation requires you already have your New York State initial certification as a teacher of students with disabilities. Some courses you may take in this program include Characteristics of Students with Exceptional Needs, Family to Independent Living for Individuals with Disabilities, and Reading Difficulties: Diagnosis and Intervention. In the curriculum for grades 1-6 and 7-12, you’ll need to create a comprehensive portfolio.

National University

National University

Quick Facts

  • 45 credit hours
  • Multiple specialization options
  • No prior teaching experience required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Programs Offered Online

46

Median Debt

$51,323

Programs in Department

11

Popularity at School

8%

80%OSR Score

National University has 20 campuses located throughout Southern California and Nevada, and it has recently started offering classes online. NU’s Master’s in Special Education degree is designed to increase your job opportunities for teacher practitioners but also advocacy and leadership roles. It includes optional specializations in Early Childhood, Autism, Learning Outcomes, Language and Academic Development, Mild/Moderate Disability, and Moderate/Severe Disability. Classes at this school are only 4-weeks long, enabling you to finish your degree faster. NU is a military friendly school. It is a Yellow Ribbon school and offers tuition discounts for military service people and dependents.

University of West Georgia

University of West Georgia

Quick Facts

  • 33 credit hours
  • Two curriculum tracks
  • $40 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

59%

Programs Offered Online

4

Median Debt

$22,264

Programs in Department

6

Popularity at School

10%

80%OSR Score

UWG’s online Master’s in Special Education program offers two curriculum tracks. The General Curriculum prepares students for teaching mild to moderate special needs students, while the Adapted Curriculum prepares students for teaching moderate to severe students. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, but not a teaching certificate. Some classes you’ll take in this program include Classroom Behavior Management, Regulations and Requirements in Special Education, and Educational Characteristics of Learners: Mild Disabilities. In this program, you may take up to 5 courses to meet concentration requirements in a variety of subjects including math, reading, science, social studies, or language arts.

Ball State University

Ball State

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • License and non-licensed tracks available
  • 15 credits of core requirements, 15 credits of specialized credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

62%

Programs Offered Online

6

Median Debt

$27,214

Programs in Department

11

Popularity at School

8%

79%OSR Score

Ball State offers two types of online Master’s in Special Education degrees. The first is geared towards students who want to work in administrative and non-teaching roles. The second is designed specifically to help students earn their teaching certificate for special education. SOme courses you’ll take in this program include Introduction to Disability Services in the Post-Secondary Setting, Theory and Practice in Early Childhood Special Education, and Special Education Administration and Organizational Behavior. If you complete one or more of the specializations, this could lead to employment in self-contained classrooms, resource rooms, local, state, or private agencies, as well as residential schools where you can serve children and adults with disabilities.

Wilmington University

Quick Facts

  • 33-54 credit hours
  • Admission requires a bachelor’s degree and a passing PRAXIS score
  • $35 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

72%

Programs Offered Online

18

Median Debt

$35,911

Programs in Department

8

Popularity at School

9%

79%OSR Score

Wilmington University offers a Master’s in Special Education in person on its Delaware campuses, or online to all 50 states. Its programs are highly tailored to specific specialties, and some can require as much as 54 credit hours of coursework. The concentrations you can choose from are Special Education Teacher K-12, Special Education Teacher of Students with Disabilities K-12, Special Education, Instruction, Paraeducator to Special Education Teacher K-12 , and M.Ed. in Education Studies, Special Education K-12. In addition to standard teaching tracks, it also offers concentrations for administrators. Classes at this school start every 8-weeks.

University of Florida

UF

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Multiple learning tracks
  • Program designed for working teachers
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Programs Offered Online

15

Median Debt

$27,250

Programs in Department

7

Popularity at School

2%

79%OSR Score

The University of Florida’s online Master’s in Special Education degree program is tailored for working teachers, who can boost their credentials on their own time. UF offers specializations in Early Childhood Studies, Dyslexia, Autism, Disabilities in Society, and General Special Education. No student teaching is required for graduation, but classroom experience is required for admission. The program is designed for part-time students and can be completed in 2 years. Some classes you will take in this program include Intervention for Language and Learning Disabilities, Accessing Academic and Social Communities for Students with Disabilities, and Community and Work Access for Individuals with Disabilities.

Concordia University-Nebraska

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Optional K-6, 7-12, and K-12 endorsements
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

35%

79%OSR Score

Concordia’s offers an online M.Ed. in Special Education. In this program you will learn to create specialized instructional strategies for students with cognitive, physical, mental, and mild to moderate learning disabilities. If you so desire, you can take additional course work to earn a K-6, 7-12, and K-12 endorsement for Nebraska. Check your own state’s regulations to see if they will honor a Nebraska endorsement. Courses you’ll take in this program include Current Issues and Legal Aspects of Special Education and Inclusion, Instructional Methods for Students with Diverse Needs in Inclusive Settings, and Psychological Foundations of Teaching and Learning.

Harding University

Quick Facts

  • 35 credit hours
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree
  • Also requires a teaching certificate or passing PRAXIS score
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

72%

Programs Offered Online

3

Programs in Department

14

Popularity at School

14%

79%OSR Score

Harding University offers a highly selective online Master’s in Special Education program. It offers 11 different endorsements. Since these include several endorsements that are oriented towards administration, Harding is an excellent choice for professional administrators. Some courses you will take in this program are Managing the Learning Environment for Students with Exceptionalities, Legal and Ethical Issues in Special Education, and Interdisciplinary Planning and Methods for Working with Students with Exceptionalities. You will also be required to do an internship with this program at a K-12 school. All requirements must be met within 8 years from the time you are admitted into the program.

Wayne State College

Quick Facts

  • 36-51 credit hours
  • 3rd most affordable online master’s degree
  • Bachelor’s degree required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

26%

79%OSR Score

Wayne State College offers a MSE in Special Education online. This school offers four unique pathways: Special Education Advanced Study, Special Education for Initial Certification, Special Education for Additional Certification, and Special Education Supervisor. The Initial Certification program requires 51 credits, while the Additional Certification, Advanced Study, and Special Education Supervisor tracks only require 36. You must provide a statement of interest to the Dean for admission. In addition to Wayne State’s pricing being one of the most competitive available, they offer Graduate Assistantships. You would receive a stipend for the academic year as well as tuition.

Buena Vista University

Quick Facts

  • 36-51 credit hours
  • Multiple optional endorsements
  • Bachelor’s degree required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

70%

Acceptance Rate

64%

Programs Offered Online

14

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

21%

79%OSR Score

BVU offers a basic online Master’s in Special Education degree that is designed to provide hands-on experience, science, and theory in teaching professionals how to serve students with disabilities. With an additional 15 hours, students can also earn an endorsement in Mild/Moderate Disabilities for K-12, or endorsements for Moderate/Severe Disabilities in specific areas. The program is designed for the scheduling needs of working teachers, but no prior teaching experience is required for admission. Courses you will take as part of the Master of Education in Special Education Core are Leadership in a Changing Society and Culture, Intro to Graduate Study & Research, and Learning, Development & Motivation.

Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Portfolio required for graduation
  • Bachelor’s degree required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Acceptance Rate

89%

Programs Offered Online

22

Median Debt

$21,209

Programs in Department

6

Popularity at School

12%

79%OSR Score

FHSU specializes in High-Incidence Special Education, which means special education for students with disabilities rather than for gifted students. The program is designed to meet most states’ requirements for adding a Special Education endorsement to an existing teaching license. Graduation requires completion of a portfolio that includes a classroom case study. FHSU’s online special education master’s degree program has been ranked #2 in the nation by AffordableColleges.com. You must complete a comprehensive portfolio or a thesis. You will also be required to pass the Praxis II if you’re looking for endorsement. Some courses you’ll take include Methods and Materials for Exceptional Students and Behavior Management in Schools.

University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida

Quick Facts

  • 33 credit hours
  • Several endorsements available
  • Designed for teachers who are already certified
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

50%

Programs Offered Online

93

Median Debt

$37,972

Programs in Department

6

Popularity at School

8%

78%OSR Score

UCF’s online Master’s in Special Education program is notable because it offers a few endorsements you won’t see in most Special Education programs. To begin with, it offers an Exceptional Student Educator endorsement for teaching gifted students. It also offers endorsements for teaching autistic students, or students with speech and hearing challenges. You will be taught by professors who are already certified in teaching exceptional students. After successfully completing the program, you may find yourself in a variety of positions like an Autistic Teacher, Speech And Audio Therapist, or Special Education Administrator. This school was ranked one of the most innovative universities in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2020 Guide.

Concordia University-Portland

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Action Research or Practical final project required for graduation
  • Multiple endorsements available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

49%

Programs Offered Online

4

Median Debt

$20,500

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

15%

78%OSR Score

Concordia University’s online Master’s in Special Education program is divided across 10 classes. It offers multiple endorsements, including programs for both gifted and disabled students. For graduation, you’ll be required to complete either an “Action Research”—a case study—or a Practitioner Inquiry, a self-study of your own teaching method. This school offers several scholarship opportunities for graduate students, including a $4,000 District Partnership Scholarship, a $2,000 Title I Scholarship, and a $3,000 Military Scholarship. After graduation you will have access to a professional alumni network of over 20,000 College of Education graduates.

Graceland University-Lamoni

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Bachelor’s degree in Education required for admission
  • Designed for licensed teachers
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

56%

Programs Offered Online

4

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

20%

77%OSR Score

Graceland University’s program is designed for licensed teachers who are already working. This program is meant for adding a Special Education endorsement to your existing teaching license. As with all Master’s of Special Education programs, reach out to your state’s Board of Education to make sure they meet your local requirements. Some courses you will take in this program are Collaborative Study of the Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Developing and Facilitating Effective Professional Development Experiences, and Managing Student Learning and Behavior. You will also be required to do an action research study. You’ll present your findings and conclusions.

Minnesota State University-Mankato

Quick Facts

  • 34 credit hours
  • Specializes in Autism Spectrum Education
  • No teaching license required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

61%

Programs Offered Online

4

Median Debt

$20,200

Programs in Department

6

Popularity at School

7%

77%OSR Score

MSU–Mankato’s master’s program is geared specifically towards bachelor’s degree holders who want to specialize in educating autistic students. No teaching license is required for admission, and an optional licensure track allows you to take additional classes to work towards a license if needed. The degree focuses primarily on behavior management and transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Some courses you will take in this program are Formal/Informal Clinical Procedures, Special Education Law, and Behavior Management and Learning Environments for Diverse Learners. This school offers several scholarship opportunities including Claire E. Faust Educational Leadership Scholarship and Leroy Sydness Family Special Education Scholarship.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • 8-week courses
  • Will accept up to 18 transfer credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

30%

Programs Offered Online

23

Median Debt

$36,458

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

8%

76%OSR Score

Liberty University’s program is a non-licensure track program that is designed to teach you how to positively impact exceptional students’ lives through adopting different teaching concepts and strategies. This allows you to start at virtually any time of year, and take time off as needed for your existing career. Liberty will accept up to 18 transfer credits, making it a good choice if you already started your master’s degree elsewhere. This school is military friendly and offers tuition discounts to veterans, current service members, and spouses of current and former military service members. First Responders will also get an additional discount.

New Mexico Highlands University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Multiple fields of emphasis
  • Master of Arts and Master of Science both available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

21%

76%OSR Score

NMHU offers an online Master’s in Special Education program that is divided into three portions. The first 12 credit hours consist of core credits, while the next 12 consist of credits in your specialization. The final 12 credits are research based, with a focus on correct methodology. Some courses you’ll take in this program include Psychocultural/Psychosocial Aspects of Disability, Organization and Administration of Special Education, and Assessment Issues for Gifted Education. You will be required to complete a thesis as part of its graduation requirements. This school also offers a certificate that leads to licensure.

Minot State University

Minot State

Quick Facts

  • 25-27 credit hours
  • Capstone thesis and passing PRAXIS II score required for graduation
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing concentration available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

10

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

21%

75%OSR Score

MSU’s master’s program requires fewer credit hours of instruction than most universities, but it’s by no means easy. Graduation requires completion and presentation of a capstone thesis, as well as earning a passing score on the PRAXIS II. Several concentrations are available for study, including a specialization in Deaf and Hard of Hearing education, Early Childhood Special Education, Special Education Strategist, and Specific Learning Disabilities. If you’re looking to get your initial licensure in North Dakota, then you will be required to take the Core Academic Skills for Educators exam. This school is military friendly and offers educational benefits for veterans.

University of Nebraska at Kearney

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Specialize in K-6 or 7-12
  • Gifted specialization available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

71%

Acceptance Rate

82%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$16,295

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

14%

75%OSR Score

UNK’s Master’s in Special Education program focuses primarily on gifted students. Other specializations include Advanced Practitioner and High Ability Education. These specializations are in K-6 and 7-12 education. The program requires four core classes which cover areas like diversity, research, and technology. There is a comprehensive exam/project you will have to complete for graduation. It includes an exam given by the department, a program exam/project, as well as the College of Education survey of Desired Outcomes. Some of the core classes of this program are Philosophy of Education, Overview of Assistive Technology, and Curriculum Development in Multicultural Education.

Jacksonville State University

Quick Facts

  • 31-43 credit hours
  • Multiple specializations available
  • One-year intensive program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

54%

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$38,456

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

10%

75%OSR Score

Jacksonville State’s M.Ed. program in Special Education packs its coursework into a one-year program. This makes it a poor choice for working teachers, but an excellent choice for students who are just finishing their bachelor’s degree. It offers multiple specializations, for age groups from preschool through grade 12. If you have your bachelors in another degree of study, then you can take their The Alternative Fifth-Year Program. This will lead to both an M.S. Ed. and fifth-year Alabama Class A Teacher Certification. Some classes you may take depending on your concentration include Intervention in the Early Childhood Education Classroom, Applied Behavior Analysis in Special Education, and Psychological Principles of Learning.

The University of West Florida

The University of West Florida

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Emphasis on exceptional students
  • Two primary areas of study
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

50%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$29,784

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

4%

74%OSR Score

UWF’s online Master’s in Special Education focus emphasizes teaching exceptional students. UWF offers two primary areas of study: Special & Alternative Education, and Applied Behavior Analysis. You will not be required to have a teacher certification if you choose to specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis. Studies include a 21-credit hour core, as well as 15 hours of study in your concentration. This school aims to ensure your success by providing a faculty mentor who will help advise you on professional issues as well as provide career advice. UWF also offers Graduate Assistantships. If you have a documented need, then you may be eligible to apply for the UWF Graduate Grant.

University of Northern Iowa

Quick Facts

  • 38 credit hours
  • 4 years of teaching experience required for admission
  • Comprehensive exam and 90 student teaching hours required for graduation
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

81%

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs in Department

9

Popularity at School

17%

74%OSR Score

UNI’s Special Education: Consultant Emphasis (MAE) is designed to create effective instructional coaches and special education consultants. UNI’s program requires both passing a comprehensive exam as well as 90 hours of observed instruction. This is an advanced program, and requires a minimum of four years of teaching experience for admission. Classes are held in the evening, so working teachers can attend after their daytime teaching careers. Some courses you’ll take in this program include Special Education Law and Policy, Foundations of Instructional Psychology, and Qualitative Research in Special Education. Courses must be taken in the sequence they are delivered in.

Eastern Kentucky University

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • 8-week terms
  • Accepts up to 9 transfer credits
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

87%

Programs Offered Online

17

Median Debt

$34,249

Programs in Department

9

Popularity at School

8%

74%OSR Score

EKU’s program is designed for students who are already working as teachers and want to increase their rank and salary, expand their subject knowledge, and perhaps get a promotion into administration and curriculum design. It offers eight-week terms, which allows you to sign up at any time of year. They also accept up to nine transfer credits, so you don’t have to start over from scratch if you already started a degree somewhere else. This school is military friendly and offers tuition discounts for active duty military. There are three program tracks for the Special Education program: Learning and Behavior Disorders, Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Florida International University

Florida International University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Specialization in Autism
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

54%

Programs Offered Online

26

Median Debt

$30,750

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

4%

74%OSR Score

FIU’s master’s program is specialized for Autism Education. The program includes 21 hours of core course work, as well as 15 hours of specialized autism-related course work. This degree leads to a Florida Autism Endorsement. Applicants are required to have either a bachelor’s degree or the foreign equivalent. Some courses you will take in this program include Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Exceptional Learners, Assessment and Strategies for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder , and Advanced Theory and Research in Special Education. This school has a scholarship available specifically for online graduate students called the FIU Online Academic Merit Scholarship.

Delta State University

Quick Facts

  • 30-33 credit hours
  • Graduation requires either a comprehensive exam or a thesis
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

87%

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

24%

74%OSR Score

Delta State’s online Master’s in Special Education degree requires 30 to 33 hours of coursework, depending on your specialization. Admission standards are high, requiring both a bachelor’s degree and a minimum score on either the CASE exam or the ACT. Graduation standards are unique—students can complete either a comprehensive written and oral exam or present a thesis. Some courses you will take in this program include Programming for Individuals with Severe/Multiple Disabilities, Education of Young Children with Exceptional Learning Needs, and Foundations of Special Education in Inclusive Settings. You will also need to pass the PRAXIS II: Special Education Core Knowledge and Applications exam.

Eastern University

Quick Facts

  • 30-36 credit hours
  • Requires teaching certification for admission
  • Offers several optional endorsements
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

66%

Programs Offered Online

5

Median Debt

$37,111

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

16%

74%OSR Score

Eastern University’s M.Ed. program prepares both teachers and those who want to get into administrative positions for providing education to special needs students in Pre-K through 12th grade. You can take extra classes to earn endorsements in Autism or Applied Behavior Analysis. This program has four start dates throughout the year. Eastern University is military friendly and offers special financial aid opportunities to service members, veterans, and spouses and dependents. Courses are taught in the evening. Some classes you will take in this program include Teaching Techniques for Low Incidence Students, Emotional & Behavioral Disorders w/ Field Experience, and Early Intervention and Transition Planning.

University of Phoenix-Arizona

University of Phoenix

Quick Facts

  • 46 credit hours
  • 6-week courses
  • 100 hours of field work required for graduation
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Programs Offered Online

36

Median Debt

$37,362

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

2%

73%OSR Score

The University of Phoenix–Arizona offers a Master of Arts in Special Education that’s built for immersion. Six-week courses allow you to take a single class at a time and still earn your degree in less than two years. That said, you’ll need to perform 100 hours of student teaching field work in order to graduate. This degree prepares you for many positions within special education including a special education inclusion teacher or intervention specialist. You can transfer up to 6 credits for this program. You will get hands-on experience through student teaching. Under the supervision of a teacher and a University of Phoenix Faculty Supervisor, you’ll create lesson plans, and teach and work with diverse student populations while also incorporating technology.

Missouri State University-Springfield

Missouri State University-Springfield

Quick Facts

  • 39-46 credit hours
  • At least 60 hours of undergraduate credit required for admission
  • 4 specializations
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

84%

Programs Offered Online

24

Median Debt

$25,801

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

13%

73%OSR Score

MSU–Springfield offers four different specializations in its M.Ed. program. These specializations are Autism Spectrum Disorder, Blindness and low vision, Accelerated MSEd – Autism spectrum disorder, and Special education alternative certification track. Autism Spectrum Disorder requires 46 credits, while Orientation and Mobility and the Special Education Alternative Certification Track both require 45. The Visual Impairment specialization is notable and requires 39 credit hours of coursework. You will also be required to complete a Family Care Safety Registry background check. The core classes you will take are Impact of Contemporary Issues & Diversity in Special Education, Educational Research Methodology, and Research Seminar in Special Education or Thesis Option.

University of the Southwest

University of the Southwest

Quick Facts

  • 30 credit hours
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree for admission
  • Covers all education levels from preschool through 12th grade
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

35%

Programs Offered Online

20

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

9%

73%OSR Score

The University of the Southwest’s online Master’s program is a basic general Special Education degree. It covers all education levels from preschool through 12th grade, but does not include an endorsement in any one area. This program is designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in academic achievement in special needs students by gaining knowledge of their needs and doing research-based strategies on their conditions. A bachelor’s degree is required for admission. Some courses you will take in this program are Cultivating Cultural Responsiveness in Schools, Delivery of Special Education Services at the Preschool and High School Settings, and Adapting Curriculum for Exceptional Learners. You will be required to take the course Educational Research before taking your other courses.

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Teaching certificate required for admission
  • Requires some student teaching field work
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

53%

Programs Offered Online

10

Median Debt

$27,488

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

8%

73%OSR Score

The University of Alabama’s online Master’s of Education program specializes in 6-12 education. It’s designed for teachers who already hold a bachelor’s-level certificate and are working in the field. Some practical field work is required for graduation, although the exact nature will depend on your advisor. Completing this program will lead to Alabama Class A certification in Collaborative 6-12. Courses you will take in this program include Methods and Severe Disabilities, Teacher Consultant Models in Special Education, and Diagnosis and Assessment of Exceptional Children and Youth. This school offers several graduate scholarships including the Joan and Wray Pearce Endowed Scholarship in Education and the Leeman C. Joslin Scholarship in Behavioral Studies Scholarship.

University of South Florida-Main Campus

Quick Facts

  • 50 credit hours
  • Tailored for graduates with bachelor’s degrees in other fields
  • Requires some field work for graduation
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

45%

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$45,116

Programs in Department

8

Popularity at School

5%

73%OSR Score

The M.Ed. program at USF is designed for people who have bachelor’s degrees in non-education-related fields. As a result, the program requires 50 credit hours of coursework, covering requirements not just for special education, but also for general education. Field work is required for graduation, since students are not expected to have ever taught a class before. You may be able to receive TEACH Grant funding which is up to $8,000. Some courses you will take in this program are Developing Individualized Educational Programs for Students with Disabilities, Creating Positive Learning Environments for Students with Disabilities, and Implementing and Evaluating Programs for Students with Disabilities.

Rowan University

Quick Facts

  • 30-36 credit hours
  • 4 specializations
  • Requires a thesis presentation for graduation
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

69%

Programs Offered Online

5

Median Debt

$26,780

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Popularity at School

12%

72%OSR Score

Rowan University’s Master’s program in Special Education requires 18 hours of coursework to meet the core requirements. Beyond that, you’ll have 12 to 18 more credit hours of work depending on your specialization. It is designed for new teachers and continuing teachers who want to enhance their knowledge with a focus on fulfilling the psychological and sociological needs of students with disabilities. Students can focus on the Graduate Endorsement track, the Autism Spectrum Disorders track, the Learning Disabilities track, or the Early Childhood Special Education track. Some courses you will take in this program are Collaborative Instruction In Inclusive Classrooms, Communication Skills For Students With Disabilities, and Inquiry in Special Education Settings.

Jackson State University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Oral and written comprehensive exam required for graduation
  • Bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

72%

Programs Offered Online

5

Programs in Department

7

Popularity at School

14%

72%OSR Score

Jackson State’s exclusive master’s program requires both a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate for admission. Core requirements are for 12 credit hours, with 24 additional credit hours in more specialized classes. In order to graduate, students need to pass both an oral and a written examination. Some courses you will take in this program include Educational Management of Students with Visual and Multiple Disabilities, Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities, and Education and Psychology of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. You will be required to master skills in culturally relevant pedagogy, technology-based instruction, collaborative consultation, and evidence-based instruction.

University of Louisville

Quick Facts

  • 18 or 36 credit hours
  • Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis certificate available
  • Requires a teaching license
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

75%

Programs Offered Online

4

Median Debt

$22,000

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

8%

72%OSR Score

The University of Louisville offers two types of M.Ed. degrees. The first, a 36-credit hour Master of Science degree, is designed for working teachers. The second is a standalone 18-credit hour Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis graduate certificate. Courses will be offered from 4:30 to 7 p.m. ET on specific weekdays. Some courses you will take include Moderate/Severe Disabilities Curriculum and Methods, Behavior Analytic Approach to Communication, and Foundational Concepts in Intellectual and Physical Disabilities. You must also take Introduction to Exceptional Children or an equivalent for a prerequisite. For graduation, this degree requires entry, midpoint and exit assessments. 

Southwestern College

Southwestern College

Quick Facts

  • 33-36 credit hours
  • Multiple endorsements available
  • Bachelor’s degree and teaching license required for admission
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

80%

Acceptance Rate

97%

Programs Offered Online

20

Median Debt

$27,585

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

7%

72%OSR Score

Southwestern College offers a Master’s program in Special Education that’s designed for working, degree-holding teachers. It offers multiple endorsements, including K-6 and 6-12. Both of these require 36 hours of coursework, while a non-degree endorsement in High-Incidence Disabilities only requires 33 credit hours. The courses in the High-Incidence Special Education Program are 12 weeks long with the exception of one course. Some core major requirements you will take are Instructional Strategies: Behavioral Difficulties, Collaboration with Parents and Professionals, and Legal Issues in Special Education. This school is very military friendly, it accepts up to 64 credit hours from the CCAF, DANTES, ACE-evaluated training.

Nova Southeastern University

Quick Facts

  • 30-36 credit hours
  • 14 specializations available
  • Bilingual courses available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

58%

Programs Offered Online

8

Median Debt

$80,390

Programs in Department

24

Popularity at School

3%

71%OSR Score

Nova Southeastern University’s department of Special Education focuses on bilingual education. It offers 14 different specializations, including Autism, Spanish Language Education, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Depending on specialization, earning a degree requires 30 to 36 hours of coursework. This university has an Office Of Placement Services which will help place teachers throughout the world and find the right location for you. You will need to have a specific Security Clearance depending on your field placement. Some of its specializations are either Florida state approved or Nevada state approved. Others are degree only programs.

Bemidji State University

Quick Facts

  • 36 credit hours
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate for admission
  • $20 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

70%

Acceptance Rate

66%

Programs Offered Online

11

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

15%

71%OSR Score

BSU offers a Master’s in Special Education program specifically for working teachers. Its program allows you to focus either on behavioral disorders or Autism Spectrum disorder. BSU offers Graduate Assistantships which include a tuition waiver and stipend. In exchange, you’ll be expected to complete certain research and/or teaching assignments. Some courses you will take in this program are Study of the Learner with Special Needs, Math Difficulties: Diagnosis and Intervention, and Reading Difficulties: Diagnosis and Intervention. You will also be required to complete a capstone project as well as complete a formal research paper/thesis proposal.

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