Best Online Master's in Special Education 2023
Updated March 11, 2024
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A master's in special education can advance your skills and lead to versatile career options. Learn more about this graduate degree and its outcomes.
What Is an Online Master's in Special Education?
An online master's in special education prepares current and future educators to work with students with special needs, including those requiring academic, physical, or behavioral support. Some programs only accept licensed teachers, while others provide a pathway toward teaching licensure.
A special education master's degree may focus on kindergarten through 12th-grade students or target a specific age range, like kindergarten through 2nd grade or adult learners. Some programs also offer concentrations to align with unique interests, such as mild to moderate disabilities, hearing impairments, or autism spectrum disorders.
Current teachers typically complete master's in special education programs to build their knowledge of various disabilities. Enrollees learn to assist their students through individualized instruction, collaborate with families and intervention professionals, and create inclusive classrooms.
Best Online Master's in Special Education Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in special education degree at Texas A&M University, located in College Station, uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of education or master of science in special education program. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a special education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Texas A&M University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program Name: Master of Education or Master of Science in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,677
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,700
#2 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in special education at the University of South Florida, located in Tampa, offers high academic quality. The master of arts in exceptional student education program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in special education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of South Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of Arts in Exceptional Student Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
#3 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
From its campus in University Park, Pennsylvania State University World Campus hosts a top-ranked master's in special education program. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master of education in special education program. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to special education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants without a degree in special education or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
#4 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University, located in Miami, enrolls master's students in its online special education program. The master of science in special education encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to special education. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in special education or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 31
Program Name: Master of Science in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393
#5 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Texas, the University of Houston enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online special education program. The master of education in special populations draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on special education. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in special education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
The University of Houston at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Populations
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,370
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,746
#6 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Clemson University
Clemson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Clemson, South Carolina, Clemson University offers an online master's in special education. The master of education in special education program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in special education. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in special education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Clemson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,050
#7 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's degree in special education at Georgia Southern University, located in Statesboro, offers high academic quality. The master of education in special education program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of special education. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants without a background in special education may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Georgia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 54%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890
#8 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in special education, offered by The University of Alabama from its Tuscaloosa campus, ranks as a top program. The master of arts or educational specialist in special education helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in special education before applying to the program.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
The University of Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of Arts or Educational Specialist in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,780
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,250
#9 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of North Alabama
Florence, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Alabama, located in Florence, enrolls master's students in its online special education program. The master of arts in education in collaborative special education program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in special education. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a special education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
The University of North Alabama at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 89%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master of Arts in Education in Collaborative Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,660
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,320
#10 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students seeking an online special education degree can enroll in the master's program at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, located in Edinburg. The master of education in special education program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in special education. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a special education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 80%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,959
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,555
#11 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Arkansas, located in Fayetteville, offers a flexible online master's in special education. The master of education in special education program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in special education. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in special education or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
The University of Arkansas at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,752
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,032
#12 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Carrollton, the University of West Georgia hosts a top-ranked master's in special education program. The master of arts in teaching in special education program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a special education background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
The University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 59%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,338
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,830
#13 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master's in special education program at Mississippi College, located in Clinton, offers a flexible online format. The master of education in special education program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in special education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with a background in special education typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Mississippi College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private
Admission Rate: 42%
Total Online Master's Programs: 23
Program Name: Master of Education in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,250
#14 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in East Lansing, Michigan State University hosts a top-rated online master's in special education. The master of arts in special education program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a background in special education may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Michigan State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 71%
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Program Name: Master of Arts in Special Education
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,858
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,056
#15 Best Online Master’s in Special Education 2023
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte enrolls master's students in its online special education program. The copyandpasteprogramnamehere program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of special education. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program builds on prior special education experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte at a Glance:
Type of School: Public
Admission Rate: 65%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: copyandpasteprogramnamehere
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,337
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,771
Online Master's in Special Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
-
Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Master's in Special Education Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Choosing an Online Master's in Special Education Program
When choosing an online master's degree in special education, prospective students should consider factors like cost, transfer policies, and school type. We cover several important considerations for learners below.
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Program Cost: Tuition for an online master's degree in special education varies among institutions. Some programs offer reduced tuition for in-state students, while others provide one rate for all students, regardless of their location. -
Class Size: Smaller online classes can increase the personalized attention each learner receives from instructors. Public colleges and universities typically offer larger class sizes than private schools. -
Program Length: Most master's degrees take two years of full-time study, but some programs offer accelerated timelines, allowing students to graduate earlier. Generous transfer policies for prior learning, training, or work experience can also shorten degree timelines. -
In-Person Requirements: Some online master's in special education programs have in-person requirements for internships or student teaching, which students should consider before committing.
Curriculum for an Online Master's in Special Education
Online master's degrees in special education typically emphasize curriculum design, adaptive instruction, behavioral management, and teaching strategies. Online special education master's programs may also allow students to earn specialized credentials in areas like autism spectrum disorders and applied behavior analysis.
The following sections cover common courses and credentials, but prospective students should note that offerings vary by program.
- Applied Behavior Analysis: Students explore ways to assess, intervene, and evaluate special education students. They also learn to measure and analyze behavior, develop methods to reduce negative behaviors, and improve positive behaviors in educational and social settings.
- Addressing Emotional and Social Needs: Coursework builds communication and listening skills, teaches gratitude and mindfulness practices, and trains students to foster character development among their pupils.
- Classroom Management: Classroom management courses examine theoretical and practical approaches to building efficient, effective, and nurturing learning environments. Master's degree students learn techniques for motivating and engaging learners, discipline models for handling misbehavior, and ways to establish and communicate expectations.
- Characteristics of Exceptional Learners: This course focuses on how to meet the needs of students with special needs. Learners explore the capabilities and expectations of exceptional learners and build skills to assist students with behavioral, learning, physical, and social challenges. Classes may integrate field experiences, allowing students to observe and work with exceptional learners.
Special Education Certifications and Licenses
Licensure requirements vary by state, but most require a special education teacher to hold a bachelor's degree and relevant teaching experience. Each candidate also typically needs to pass a background check and licensure examinations. For specific requirements, students should inquire with their state's department or bureau of education.
Some states require educators to take Praxis tests to assess academic skills and subject-specific knowledge. Similarly, the edTPA provides performance-based, subject-specific assessments for future teachers. Experienced educators can also complete examinations offered through the National Board to earn specialized certifications.
Teachers can often transfer their licenses between states, but requirements can differ significantly by jurisdiction. Some teachers may need to complete additional requirements before earning full reciprocity to teach in a new state.
Special Education Professional Organizations
Professional organizations for special education teachers provide opportunities for collaboration, networking, and cooperation through discussion forums and conferences. These organizations also offer resources like job boards, mentorship programs, and continuing education programs.
National Association of Special Education Teachers
NASET works to ensure children and adolescents with special needs receive access to the best education possible by promoting excellence and innovation in special education. Members can access benefits like professional development programs, continuing education courses, career center resources, and association newsletters.
Learning Disabilities Association of America
Composed of academic researchers, clinicians, and scientists, ASB promotes the field of biomechanics. The organization, founded in 1977, hosts annual conferences, grants awards, and offers a teaching repository with educational resources. Students and professionals can access its database of grants and career resources.
Council for Exceptional Children
CEC unites educators who seek to advance success among children with exceptionalities. This organization emphasizes integrity, inclusion, and visionary thinking through advocacy, standard implementation, and professional development. Members can access publication discounts, mentorship opportunities, networking resources, and professional development programs.
Special Education Careers and Outlook
A master's degree in special education can pave the way for careers inside and outside the classroom. Although many graduates pursue teaching positions, others take on leadership roles in schools or community-based positions to help people with disabilities and special needs.
Regardless of a student's career goals upon graduating, many special education master's programs require them to complete several hours of student teaching. This experience can apply to a candidate's resume when applying for special education jobs like those listed in the table below.
| Special Education Career | Median Annual Wage (2022) |
|---|---|
| Special Education Teacher | $62,950 |
| Instructional Coordinator | $66,490 |
| School Counselor or Advisor | $60,140 |
| Preschool Director | $47,310 |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $63,450 |
When searching for the right master's in special education, always prioritize programs with accreditation.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Special Education Degree Programs
Colleges and universities in the United States may voluntarily pursue institutional accreditation, which is awarded by agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.
Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates who possess accredited degrees.
Programs within schools may also receive accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation awards programmatic accreditation for education programs leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Special Education Programs
How long does it take to get a master's in special education?
A master's in special education usually takes two years to complete, but some schools offer accelerated formats to reduce the time commitment. Additionally, learners who need extra time can look for part-time programs, which can extend the completion time to five years or more.
Is a master's degree in special education worth it?
Yes — a master's degree in special education can be worth it for teachers interested in developing their knowledge of various disabilities and instructing students of all abilities. A special education master's degree can also lead to in-demand careers outside the classroom, like instructional coordinator and school advisor.
How long does it take to become a special education teacher?
The time to become a special education teacher can vary between 1-6 years, depending on a candidate's experience and education. Special education teachers typically need to complete a four-year bachelor's degree to earn state teaching licensure. State-by-state requirements differ, but some require a master's degree for licensure, adding another 1-2 years.
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