Best Master's in Special Education Programs Online

Earning a master’s in special education online can lead to a rewarding education career. Explore some of the best special education graduate programs.
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Updated April 30, 2024

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Special education master’s programs online prepare educators for potentially rewarding careers as advocates, teachers, and leaders in special education.

Often taking 1-2 years to complete, these online programs cover many facets of special education, including building inclusive classrooms and developing individualized instruction.

An online master's degree in special education can pave the way for multiple career paths. For instance, you can become a curriculum director, principal, or service coordinator. Discover what to expect from special education graduate programs.

Featured Online Master's in Special Education

Best Online Special Education Master's Programs

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Vanderbilt University

  • Nashville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

For students seeking career advancement, Vanderbilt University offers a master's program in special education. This Nashville, Tennessee-based private school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. During the master's in special education program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that builds on their undergraduate training.

Master's candidates rely on the school's support services to make progress toward their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors offer workshops, job fairs, and resume reviews. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of career counseling, writing tutoring, and extensive library services.

Vanderbilt University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 104

Total Online Master's Programs: 1

Admission Rate: 9%

Graduation Rate: 93%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $48,624

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $48,624

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $61,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,800
Out-of-state
$50,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,624
Out-of-state
$48,624
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
13,131
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Johns Hopkins University

  • Baltimore, MD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Johns Hopkins University prepares graduates for career advancement in its master's in special education program. The private institution, located in Baltimore, Maryland, serves degree-seekers with diverse needs by offering many enrollment options. In the master of science in special education program, learners strengthen their special education knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.

While pursuing a master's degree, enrollees benefit from college resources and support services. For example, career counselors host job fairs and offer resume workshops for specific industries. The university also offers library services, networking events, and more for graduate degree-seekers.

Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 124

Total Online Master's Programs: 30

Admission Rate: 11%

Graduation Rate: 93%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $55,350

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $55,350

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $68,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,350
Out-of-state
$55,350
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,350
Out-of-state
$55,350
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
27,079
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

The University of Texas at Austin

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's program in special education at The University of Texas at Austin offers an affordable, rigorous option for graduate learners. The master's degree in early childhood special education serves students seeking advanced education and increased career opportunities. Candidates benefit from flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for full-time professionals.

The master's curriculum uses theoretical and practical approaches to encourage a comprehensive understanding of special education. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Concentrations and electives let learners specialize their education around particular fields.

The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:

Location: Austin, Texas

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 32%

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,998

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,966

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 67%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,686

Average Price After Aid: $15,502

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,998
Out-of-state
$22,966
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Georgia offers a top-ranked program in special education as one of its 116 master's degrees. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in the MA in special education program. At the school, programs offer flexible enrollment options that appeal to busy enrollees balancing school with other responsibilities.

Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of special education through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Students often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-ready skills. Learners meet with faculty advisors to choose electives and concentrations to individualize the special education degree.

University of Georgia at a Glance:

Location: Athens, Georgia

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 45%

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,577

Average Price After Aid: $15,961

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
38,920
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of San Diego

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of San Diego enrolls learners in 39 master's programs, including a master of education in inclusive learning. The special education master's program helps students advance their education and increase their career opportunities. Candidates may be able to choose from on-campus and online enrollment options, adding flexibility for enrollees who need to work full time while in school.

Learners take advanced special education classes that build a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Students strengthen their career-readiness through internships and hands-on learning opportunities. A concentration also helps learners specialize their training and pursue focused careers after completing the master's degree.

University of San Diego at a Glance:

Location: San Diego, California

School Type: Private

Admission Rate: 49%

Graduate Tuition In State: $27,288

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,288

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 82%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,450
Out-of-state
$50,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,288
Out-of-state
$27,288
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
9,181
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners can earn their master's in special education from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, which offers 171 master's program options. Students can increase their earning potential and advance their careers in the master's in special education program. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.

The master's curriculum builds comprehensive knowledge, highlighting theoretical and practical approaches to special education. Students build valuable professional connections during internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Learners choose concentrations and electives to build specialized skills in a specific area of special education.

University of Minnesota Twin Cities at a Glance:

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 57%

Graduate Tuition In State: $17,580

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,204

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 81%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,544

Average Price After Aid: $17,279

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,318
Out-of-state
$31,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,580
Out-of-state
$27,204
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

The Ohio State University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in special education at The Ohio State University is one of 119 master's programs offered at the university. Students can increase their earning potential and advance their careers in the MA in educational studies program. Flexible enrollment options make it easier for busy enrollees and working professionals to attend a graduate program.

During the special education program, learners gain theoretical and practical knowledge through the rigorous curriculum. Internships and experiential learning opportunities build professional connections and provide real-world experience. A concentration also helps learners specialize their training and pursue focused careers after completing the master's degree.

The Ohio State University at a Glance:

Location: Columbus, Ohio

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 54%

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,560

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,144

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 79%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,176

Average Price After Aid: $18,706

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,197
Out-of-state
$31,174
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,560
Out-of-state
$35,144
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
61,391
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in special education degree from Boston University helps graduates pursue advanced careers. From its campus in Massachusetts, the private institution offers several enrollment options, including online programs designed for working professionals. In the M.Ed. in special education program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced special education knowledge and skills.

College resources and support services help master's candidates participate fully in campus life and meet graduation requirements. Academic advisors help with course selections, while career counselors host workshops, offer internship programs, and provide career planning services. Master's degree-seekers also attend networking events and make use of library services.

Boston University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 170

Total Online Master's Programs: 24

Admission Rate: 19%

Graduation Rate: 88%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $54,720

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,720

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking a graduate degree in special education can enroll in the MS program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in the MS in special education program. At the school, programs offer flexible enrollment options that appeal to busy enrollees balancing school with other responsibilities.

The master's curriculum builds comprehensive knowledge, highlighting theoretical and practical approaches to special education. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Electives and concentrations allow learners to individualize the program around their professional goals.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Location: Champaign, Illinois

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 59%

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,997

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,404

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 64%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,442

Average Price After Aid: $14,660

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Oregon

  • Eugene, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking increased professional responsibilities can earn their master's in special education degree at the University of Oregon. From its Eugene campus, the public university meets the needs of diverse degree-seekers by offering flexible enrollment options. In the master's in special education program, the graduate-level curriculum encourages learners to strengthen their special education skills.

College resources and support services provide guidance to master's candidates throughout their program. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Master's degree-seekers also attend networking events and make use of library services.

University of Oregon at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 78

Total Online Master's Programs: 1

Admission Rate: 82%

Graduation Rate: 74%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,958

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,811

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,440
Out-of-state
$34,335
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,958
Out-of-state
$26,811
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
22,517
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#11 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Minot State University

  • Minot, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Minot State University offers several career-focused graduate programs, including a master's in special education. From its Minot campus, the public institution offers graduate programs in several enrollment formats, including online options designed for working professionals. In the master of science in special education program, learners strengthen their special education knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.

While earning a master's degree, enrollees rely on college resources and support services for assistance. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to pay for a master's degree. The university also hosts networking and training events for master's degree-seekers.

Minot State University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 12

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Admission Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 45%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,049

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,049

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,088
Out-of-state
$6,088
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,049
Out-of-state
$8,049
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,125
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Syracuse University

  • Syracuse, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A master's degree in special education from Syracuse University helps students seeking career advancement. Located in New York, the private university offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. In the early childhood special education program, the curriculum covers advanced topics in special education.

Master's candidates access a generous selection of college resources and support services during their degree. For example, career counselors host workshops and job fairs while also recommending resume changes. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of writing centers, career advising, and library services.

Syracuse University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 123

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Admission Rate: 44%

Graduation Rate: 83%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $38,880

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $38,880

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,616
Out-of-state
$50,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,880
Out-of-state
$38,880
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
22,850
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#13 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Washington

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Washington enrolls learners in 273 master's degrees, including a master's in special education program. The master's of education in special education program helps students advance their education and increase their career opportunities. Candidates may be able to choose from on-campus and online enrollment options, adding flexibility for enrollees who need to work full time while in school.

During the program, learners complete a challenging curriculum that builds comprehensive knowledge of special education. Students often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-ready skills. Electives and concentrations allow learners to individualize the program around their professional goals.

University of Washington at a Glance:

Location: Seattle, Washington

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 52%

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,198

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $32,439

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 57%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,354

Average Price After Aid: $10,692

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,370
Out-of-state
$37,071
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,198
Out-of-state
$32,439
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
47,576
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#14 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Missouri

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The University of Missouri offers a top-ranked master's program in special education. Students can increase their earning potential and advance their careers in the M.Ed. program. At the school, graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options, including schedules designed for working professionals.

The master's curriculum balances theoretical and practical approaches to special education, emphasizing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities strengthen classroom skills and help students expand their professional networks. Learners meet with faculty advisors to choose electives and concentrations to individualize the degree.

University of Missouri at a Glance:

Location: Columbia, Missouri

School Type: Public

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#15 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Vermont

  • Burlington, VT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Vermont offers a special education master's program that helps graduates advance their career. The public institution, located in Burlington, offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. In the master of education in special education program, learners take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of special education.

Master's candidates participate in campus life and benefit from the university's support services. Financial aid advisors recommend scholarships and grants, while academic advisors help with course selections. Master's degree-seekers also attend networking events and make use of library services.

University of Vermont at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 49

Total Online Master's Programs: 1

Admission Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 77%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $12,294

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,960

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,392
Out-of-state
$41,280
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,294
Out-of-state
$30,960
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
13,548
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#16 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Washburn University

  • Topeka, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Washburn University offers a top-ranked program in special education as one of its 15 master's degrees. The master of education in special education serves students seeking advanced education and increased career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options, including online classes, help busy enrollees balance coursework with their other responsibilities.

Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of special education through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches. Internships and other hands-on learning opportunities apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Learners specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.

Washburn University at a Glance:

Location: Topeka, Kansas

School Type: Public

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,306

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,788

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,912

Average Price After Aid: $13,752

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,594
Out-of-state
$19,346
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,306
Out-of-state
$18,788
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,285
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Utah State University

  • Logan, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners interested in special education can enroll in a top-ranked master's program offered by Utah State University. The master of science in special education and rehabilitation counseling incorporates career-focused training to help students advance their professional opportunities. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.

Learners take advanced special education classes that build a theoretical and practical understanding of the field. Students apply their classroom knowledge through internships and hands-on learning opportunities, which also build professional connections. A concentration also helps learners specialize their training and pursue focused careers after completing the master's degree.

Utah State University at a Glance:

Location: Logan, Utah

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 91%

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,996

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $20,327

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,857

Average Price After Aid: $13,452

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,549
Out-of-state
$21,087
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,996
Out-of-state
$20,327
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
27,810
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#18 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Northwest Missouri State University

  • Maryville, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A master's degree in special education from Northwest Missouri State University helps students seeking career advancement. This Maryville-based public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. During the MS in education in special education program, learners gain an advanced understanding of topics while strengthening their skills.

College resources and support services help master's candidates make progress toward their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors connect students with ways to pay for their education. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of career advising, tutoring centers, and internship programs.

Northwest Missouri State University at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 35

Total Online Master's Programs: 8

Admission Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 52%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,004

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $6,004

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,956
Out-of-state
$10,738
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,004
Out-of-state
$6,004
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
7,104
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

Pennsylvania State University

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Pennsylvania State University offers 136 master's programs, including a highly-ranked special education master's degree. The M.Ed. in special education program helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.

Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of special education through the program's challenging curriculum. Students apply their classroom knowledge through internships and hands-on learning opportunities, which also build professional connections. Electives and concentrations allow learners to individualize the program around their professional goals.

Pennsylvania State University at a Glance:

Location: University Park, Pennsylvania

School Type: Public

Admission Rate: 76%

Graduate Tuition In State: $21,960

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,694

Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 73%

Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,354

Average Price After Aid: $24,724

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,416
Out-of-state
$34,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,960
Out-of-state
$37,694
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
91,427
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#20 Best Master’s in Special Education Programs Online

University of Nebraska Lincoln

  • Lincoln, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The master's in special education program at the University of Nebraska Lincoln appeals to students seeking career advancement. The public university offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. In the M.Ed. program, learners take graduate-level courses to strengthen their understanding of special education.

Master's candidates benefit from advising and support services, including career counseling. For example, career counselors host mock interviews to prepare graduates for the workforce. Master's degree-seekers also participate in training events, networking opportunities, and tutoring sessions.

University of Nebraska Lincoln at a Glance:

Total Master's Programs: 73

Total Online Master's Programs: 11

Admission Rate: 78%

Graduation Rate: 66%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,976

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,280

Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $39,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,560
Out-of-state
$24,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,976
Out-of-state
$17,280
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
25,390
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Special Education Master's Courses

Special education master’s programs often include courses in special education law, ethics, and teaching concepts. They also explore strategies in classroom behavior management, reading intervention, and assessment and evaluation. Expect to see variations of the following courses:

Curriculum Planning for Diverse Learners

This course covers necessary strategies for creating, implementing, and improving curriculums for a classroom of diverse learners and individual learning needs. You may apply learned concepts to a hands-on curriculum-planning project.

Behavior Management Strategies

Special education classrooms require educators with problem-solving skills to encourage positive classroom behaviors. This course introduces strategies to assess and reduce negative behaviors relating to various emotional and learning needs to improve the classroom environment.

Special Education Law

In this course, you will learn federal and state laws governing special education and how they apply to the classroom setting and educator responsibilities. The course may also require studying ethical concepts to explore the relationship between law and conscience-focused teaching.

Reading Instruction and Intervention

This course navigates the pathway between reading assessments and intervention strategies to improve literacy and reading confidence in the classroom. You also learn specific reading instruction strategies targeting key literacy concepts, like comprehension and text structure.

Collaboration with Individualized Education Program (IEP) Planning The IEP plays an integral role in special education. In this course, you will learn to work with students, their families, and their IEP teams using holistic strategies to improve students’ academic and developmental experiences in school.

What Can I Do With a Master's in Special Education Degree?

Although graduates with a master’s degree in special education often seek classroom positions as special education teachers, you can also transition into related careers in and out of the school setting.

For instance, some professionals may become instructional coordinators for schools or districts while others pursue social and community services careers.

Career Outlook and Salary

Career Outlook* (2021-2031):

4%

Median Annual Salary* (May 2023):

$65,910

*Based on Special Education occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The chart below highlights some potential career paths and salaries available after earning an online master’s degree in special education.

Special Education Jobs
Jobs Median Annual Salary (May 2023)
Special Education Teacher $65,910
Instructional Coordinator $74,620
School Principal $103,460
School Counselor $61,710
Social Service Manager $77,030
Source: The Bureau of Labor Statistics

Special Education Concentrations

Many schools with special education master’s programs online offer concentrations in various areas of special education. These specializations can lead to licenses, certificates, or endorsements necessary for specific roles.

Reading Intervention

A reading intervention concentration includes literacy instruction, assessment, and intervention courses. Professionals in special education who want to become reading intervention specialists might consider this pathway to obtain a reading endorsement on their teaching license.

Early Childhood Intervention

This concentration is for professionals working primarily with young children with developmental delays or disabilities. By completing this concentration you can often gain licensure or endorsements in early intervention, pre-K special education, or early childhood intervention.

Mild to Moderate Educational Needs

Focused primarily on K-12 learners, this specialization teaches helpful strategies for working with students with mild to moderate educational support. You will use research-based practices to plan tailored curriculums that mesh with students’ learning needs.

Deaf Education

A Deaf education concentration explores American Sign Language, advocacy, and instructional methods for learners who are deaf or hard of hearing. By pursuing this specialization you may become a deaf education teacher, student advocate, or IEP team coordinator.

Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness

Students who are nondisabled may need social, emotional, or behavioral support as they navigate their education. This concentration highlights strategies you can use with students and their families to work through obstacles that may impede learning.

Licenses and Certifications

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Financing an online special education master's degree is possible with financial aid, including:

Recipients of scholarships and grants do not have to pay back these forms of financial aid. While loans must be repaid, students can often begin paying them after a six-month post-graduation deferment period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Special Education Degrees

What can you do with a master's in special education?

You can pursue a career as a special education teacher working with students with varying physical, developmental, and learning needs. Although you can often begin teaching with a bachelor's degree, some states require additional education for full certification.

A master's in special education can also lead to multiple education-related careers, including curriculum developer, guidance counselor, or special education services coordinator. Professors, intervention specialists, and special education program directors also seek this degree.

What are the requirements for a special education degree?

Special education graduate programs require between 30-40 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. You can explore classroom management, intervention strategies, and instructional methods used in special education settings.

Some master's in special education programs require you to gain experience in a classroom setting in addition to completing traditional coursework. During this portion of the program, you will develop and implement a curriculum, collaborate with other teachers, and work directly with students.

How long does it take to get a master's in special education?

A master's degree in special education usually takes 1-2 years to complete, depending on the number of required credits. However, schools have various requirements that could shorten or lengthen the expected timeframe.

For example, some programs include a licensure pathway to help you receive your initial teaching license, extending the length of the program. Other schools offer accelerated programs that combine bachelor’s and master’s degrees or shortened classes to reduce time commitments.

What can I expect from an online master's in special education?

Earning a master's in special education online can open doors to rewarding careers working with diverse populations. These programs prepare professionals to meet the needs of people with varying physical, emotional, and learning abilities.

Although these programs are rigorous, learners gain beneficial classroom experience and skills necessary to teach, help, and advocate for students in special education.

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