Special education teachers fulfill an important role in the educational system, helping students with learning, emotional, physical, and mental disabilities learn and grow to achieve their full potential. While a bachelor’s degree in special education will prepare students for entry-level jobs, earning a master’s in this field can open up new employment opportunities and increase earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be, on average, 33,500 new job openings for special education teachers annually through 2032. The median annual salary for special education teachers is $65,910, with the top 10% of earners making over $106,000 per year.
To help students find the best program for their needs among the many options available, Intelligent.com curated this list of the best online master’s in special education programs. We also interviewed Blanca Villagomez, a program coordinator and counselor at UC-Irvine, for her insight into how to choose the right program and answers to frequently asked questions about online master’s degrees.
What Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Special Education Degree?
As a field, special education is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. Pursuing a master’s in special education offers a specialized focus on this vital area of education, setting it apart from other education-related master’s degrees. This degree equips educators with the necessary knowledge and skills to address diverse learning needs, adapt curricula as needed, and provide individualized support to students with disabilities.
Within the field of special education, you’ll find a few different types of master’s degrees, including:
- Master of Education (M.Ed.): This degree typically emphasizes practical teaching strategies, classroom management, and curriculum development tailored to special needs students.
- Master of Arts (MA): This degree often focuses on the theoretical foundations of special education, research methodologies, and policy analysis, offering a broader perspective on the field.
- Master of Science (M.Sc): This degree may delve into more data-driven and scientific approaches to understanding and addressing disabilities, emphasizing research and data analysis.
Choosing the correct type of master’s degree depends on your career goals and interests, whether you aim to become a classroom teacher, a researcher, or an advocate for policy change.
Common curriculum elements for a master’s in special education include foundational courses covering topics such as inclusive teaching strategies, assessment methods, and laws related to special education; a research and assessment component to help students understand and address the unique needs of students with disabilities, and a fieldwork experience, such as student teaching.
When it comes to online learning, courses are delivered either synchronously or asynchronously. “Synchronous courses, which have live virtual classes, facilitate engagement more easily,” Villagomez says. “Some professors require students to keep their video cameras on to encourage participation and interaction. Meanwhile, with asynchronous courses, it may require more effort to stay engaged, as there are no scheduled class meetings.”
“Regardless of modality, online degree programs require a high level of self-motivation, effective time management, and structured independent study,” she says. “I recommend students create a consistent routine by identifying their optimal hours for attending classes, completing coursework, and studying to stay on track with their deadlines.”
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in special education program
- Foundational and Current Issues in Special Education: A critical study of the contemporary and controversial issues within the field of special education, with consideration given to the philosophical, psychological, and sociological basis of teacher education. It includes an analytical review of research-based curricula, programmatic innovations, policy issues and their effects, and ethical practices.
- Inclusive Classroom Practices: Provides a comprehensive study of theoretical issues and research-based diagnosis, instructional planning, and programmatic organization of instruction for children with disabilities in inclusive environments. Topics include curriculum design, development of programs of differential instruction involving evidence-based interventions that meet students’ needs based on formative assessment, developmental and educational information; integrated learning experiences; specialized adaptations and resources, and more.
- Special Education Law and Policy: Provides an overview of the legal rights of students and their families in special education and explores the source, history, and current status of special education law.
Mental Health Literacy: Introduces the concept of social, emotional, and behavioral wellness for PK-12 students and teaches students how to describe and define Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, and mental illness, including how such experiences and conditions can impact the growth, development, and learning of children and adolescents.
Best 50 Online Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online master’s degree programs in special education in the U.S. All are offered at nonprofit, accredited institutions, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each degree program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and student resources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared our picks to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Special Education?
For most students, earning an online master’s in special education is a pathway to employment or advancement as a special education teacher.
Depending on the program, it can provide students with the necessary education for teaching certification. Requirements for certification are determined at the state level, with differing coursework, exams, and practical experience requirements. Therefore, the state in which you earn your degree can significantly impact your certification process and where you can work as a special education teacher. Some states offer reciprocity agreements, easing the certification process if moving between states.
Beyond classroom roles, individuals with a master’s in special education may be qualified for administrative positions, such as special education coordinators, who help develop and implement curriculums and infrastructure for special needs students, and school counselors, who provide support to students facing physical, behavioral, and mental health challenges. This degree also provides a solid foundation for doctoral-level study in special education, curriculum and instruction, or educational leadership.
Career outlook
- Special education teachers — Work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities by adapting general education lessons and teaching various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities.
- Median annual salary: $65,910
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 0%
- New jobs projected: 33,500 per year
- Instructional coordinators — Oversee school curriculums and teaching standards; develop educational material, implement it with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness.
- Median annual salary: $74,620
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 2%
- New jobs projected: 19,200 per year
- School counselors and advisors — Help students understand and overcome social or behavioral challenges; analyze data to identify factors, such as poor attendance, that negatively affect academic performance, and work with students to develop skills that support learning.
- Median annual salary: $61,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 26,600 per year
Best States for Teaching Careers
Education career opportunities span all 50 states, although employment and annual salary vary widely.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Rhode Island has the nation’s highest-paid teachers, with an annual median salary of $119,840. Meanwhile, Indiana has the lowest median yearly salary, at $48,320.
The U.S. is currently experiencing a shortage of trained, qualified teachers, with some experts estimating as many as 55,000 open teaching positions in the country. The need is most acute in the South Atlantic and East South Central regions of the U.S.
| State | Annual median wage | Employment per 1,000 jobs |
| Alabama | $55,770 | 51.40 |
| Alaska | $75,360 | 62.77 |
| Arizona | $60,140 | 48.76 |
| Arkansas | $55,020 | 57.37 |
| California | $80,940 | 56.21 |
| Colorado | $61,640 | 52.31 |
| Connecticut | $78,610 | 75.69 |
| Delaware | $62,110 | 62.17 |
| District of Columbia | $86,380 | 45.16 |
| Florida | $57,350 | 43.51 |
| Georgia | $61,100 | 57.06 |
| Hawaii | $59,670 | 65.26 |
| Idaho | $54,600 | 56.29 |
| Illinois | $64,390 | 60.66 |
| Indiana | $57,740 | 50.61 |
| Iowa | $53,960 | 69.15 |
| Kansas | $51,820 | 62.60 |
| Kentucky | $56,440 | 51.17 |
| Louisiana | $56,650 | 57.24 |
| Maine | $59,560 | 64.91 |
| Maryland | $73,160 | 60.71 |
| Massachusetts | $80,050 | 67.05 |
| Michigan | $61,830 | 50.27 |
| Minnesota | $61,680 | 56.69 |
| Mississippi | $48,900 | 59.42 |
| Missouri | $58,570 | 56.89 |
| Montana | $56,950 | 57.55 |
| Nebraska | $62,320 | 57.19 |
| Nevada | $57,310 | 36.87 |
| New Hampshire | $62,500 | 60.78 |
| New Jersey | $71,820 | 67.83 |
| New Mexico | $63,170 | 60.86 |
| New York | $82,760 | 74.08 |
| North Carolina | $55,550 | 56.84 |
| North Dakota | $57,560 | 57.98 |
| Ohio | $65,840 | 58.40 |
| Oklahoma | $50,540 | 58.09 |
| Oregon | $72,820 | 54.46 |
| Pennsylvania | $68,610 | 58.92 |
| Rhode Island | $73,160 | 66.28 |
| South Carolina | $57,030 | 49.76 |
| South Dakota | $47,220 | 57.99 |
| Tennessee | $55,990 | 47.83 |
| Texas | $61,140 | 59.59 |
| Utah | $58,870 | 56.33 |
| Vermont | $63,650 | 89.62 |
| Virginia | $64,880 | 61.08 |
| Washington | $73,610 | 54.21 |
| West Virginia | $56,950 | 61.11 |
| Wisconsin | $60,260 | 55.17 |
| Wyoming | $54,050 | 72.17 |
**Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
How to Choose the Online Master’s in Special Education Degree That’s Right for You
Step 1: Choose your area of study
Many graduate special education programs offer students the opportunity to tailor their education to their unique interests and career goals. For those passionate about working with children on the autism spectrum, the autism specialization equips them with the tools needed to make a profound impact. Those interested in addressing learning difficulties might opt for the learning disabilities specialization. Meanwhile, a concentration in behavioral disorders is ideal for those who wish to concentrate on handling challenging behaviors.
Step 2: Research schools and programs
Now that you have clarified your intended specialization and preferred learning format, thorough research is essential to find the right master’s in special education program.
Accreditation should be the first checkpoint, as it ensures program quality, eligibility for federal funding, and employment opportunities in the future. According to Villagomez, students should verify that both the institution as a whole and the specific special education program are accredited. “With institutional accreditation, colleges are evaluated as a whole and must achieve several standards to receive a regional or national accreditation,” she says. “Programmatic accreditations evaluate the quality and legitimacy of the specific degree programs offered at institutions.” Students should select a college that has regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting body and a program with programmatic accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
During the research process, ask yourself questions like:
- Does the program offer my desired specialization?
- Is it offered online, and if so, is it synchronous or asynchronous?
- What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
- What resources, like libraries and research databases, are available for online students?
You can gather information by visiting school websites, attending virtual open houses, contacting program coordinators, reading student reviews, and seeking insights from current or former students.
Step 3: Prepare for applications and tests
Begin by reviewing each school’s specific requirements and deadlines. It’s wise to start the process early — gathering the necessary documents and writing an engaging personal statement that illustrates your qualifications and career goals. If the program requires the GRE, consider enrolling in a test prep program to enhance your scores.
Be sure to proofread all application materials carefully to ensure they are error-free and effectively convey your qualifications. By staying organized and dedicating time to each application, you will increase your chances of securing admission to the program of your choice.
Step 4: Select your program
Once your acceptance letters have arrived, it’s essential to prioritize each program’s alignment with your unique career goals. Consider how each program will prepare you for your desired career path — will this program help or hinder your professional growth? Don’t forget to evaluate tuition costs and financial aid options to be sure you’re making an informed financial decision. If you’re pursuing teaching, ensure that the program meets state-level certification requirements in your state.
Step 5: Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
“Financial aid varies greatly across institutions, but there are key types of aid available across private and public institutions, including grants, scholarships, fellowships, work-study, and loans,” Villagomez says. “To determine what type of need-based aid you’re eligible for, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as this is how schools assess you and your family’s financial contributions and capacity. I recommend meeting with financial aid offices at the schools you’re interested in to ask any questions you may have and get a clear understanding of the types of aid they offer.”
For students who need to borrow federal student loans to help pay for their online master’s in special education, there are loan forgiveness programs like Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, which can help students eliminate loan payments after a certain period of time.
Another option students can consider is employer tuition assistance if they are working while earning their master’s degree. Specific benefits vary, but typically employers will reimburse students for some or all of their education expenses after they successfully complete a course or program.
Online College/Degree Scholarship Database
Intelligent Scholarship Finder Tool
"A Helping Hand" Scholarship
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
"Follow Your Own Path" Essay Scholarship
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
"Tuition Solution" Scholarship for STEM Students
Award Amount: $500
Due Date: January 31, 2025
$25k "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship
Award Amount: $25,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
(ISC) Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
(ISC) Women in Information Security Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
A.C. "Kate" & Leo Joseph Merlone St. Dominic Catholic Church of Saginaw Member Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Due Date: Closed for 2024
A.C. "Kate" & Leo Joseph Merlone Teaching Scholarship
Award Amount: Varies
Due Date: Closed for 2024
a/e ProNet David W. Lakamp Scholarship
Award Amount: $5,000
Due Date: Closed for 2024
AAAE Native American Scholarship
Award Amount: $1,500
Due Date: March 15, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs
Should I get a master's in special education degree in person or online?
The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances and learning preferences. Online learning is often the best choice for working professionals or individuals with significant responsibilities as it allows for greater flexibility, enabling you to balance your education with other commitments. However, it requires substantial self-discipline and managing your time effectively.
On the other hand, in-person learning is typically better suited for traditional students who thrive in a physical classroom environment and value face-to-face interaction with their professors and peers.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your lifestyle, learning style, and personal circumstances. Assess your needs, responsibilities, and preferences to determine which learning mode — either online or in person — best supports your academic and career goals.
What are the admissions requirements for an online master's in special education degree?
Specific admissions requirements will vary depending on the institution, but here are some standard admissions requirements for an online master’s in special education degree:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA (usually around 3.0, but some programs may have slightly higher or lower requirements)
- Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Resume or CV
- GRE scores (varies depending on the program)
Some programs may require a teaching certification and prefer applicants with relevant professional experience.
Says Villagomez, After conducting research on degree programs and schools, you should have an understanding of their admission requirements. With all these requirements, it’s important to stay organized with a comprehensive and detailed checklist to track your progress, submit all required materials, and meet deadlines. I encourage students to decide what systems help them organize the application requirements and track their progress for each school.”
What is the average cost of an online master's in special education degree?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a graduate degree at public colleges was approximately $12,596 and $29,931 for the 2021-22 academic year. Tuition rates are typically lower at public institutions because they receive funding from state governments, while private universities rely more on tuition and donations.
How long does it take to complete an online master's in special education degree?
The duration to complete your graduate degree will vary depending on the following factors:
- Delivery Format: Typically, full-time programs take around 18 months to two years, while part-time programs can extend to two and a half to three years.
- Full-Time vs. Part-Time Enrollment: Full-time students often complete their degrees more quickly. In contrast, part-time students spread their coursework over a more extended period to accommodate other responsibilities.
- Accelerated Programs: Some online programs offer accelerated options, allowing students to graduate in as little as 12 to 18 months. However, these programs may require a heavier courseload and a faster pace of study.
Ultimately, the exact timeline will depend on the specific program, your chosen course load, and your ability to balance coursework with other commitments.
How hard is an online master's in special education degree?
The degree of difficulty for an online master’s in special education depends on several factors. For students who have teaching experience, the coursework will likely build on existing skills and knowledge, while those who are entering the field will be tasked with learning foundational as well as advanced concepts.
Students will also have to decide how to balance schoolwork and field experiences with other obligations, especially if they are working or caring for family members while earning their online master’s degree. Time management, organization, effective study habits, and seeking assistance when needed are important to helping students progress through their programs and successfully complete all requirements for earning their master’s in special education.
Is an online master's in special education degree worth it?
Earning your online master’s in special education is especially worth it for those seeking to advance their careers in this field. However, many individuals assess the potential Return on Investment (ROI) to better understand how their degree will be financially worth it in the future.
To assess the potential ROI for a specific program, you should consider:
- Total program cost
- Expected salary upon graduation
- Opportunities for career advancement and pay increases
- Loan repayment
- Time to break-even
By conducting this analysis, you can make an informed decision about the potential ROI of your degree and whether it will align with your long-term career and financial goals.
Read More about Online Master’s in Special Education Degrees
Compare School Options
Related Degrees
- Secondary Education
- Graduate Certificate in Elementary Education
- Science Education
- Reading and Literacy
- Educational Leadership
- Math Education
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Higher Education
- Health Education
- Child Development