Best Online Bachelor’s in Special Education Programs of 2025

Choose your area of study

Special education is a broad field, so those pursuing this degree should have some idea of what they’d like to do after graduation. This will allow them to choose a particular area of study. For example, various programs offer concentrations in autism, assistive technology, early childhood, K-5, severe disabilities, visual impairment, communication disorder, and deaf education. Knowing what type of concentration you’re seeking will help you narrow your search to schools and programs that offer it.

Research schools and programs

Once you’ve determined your general career path and chosen an area of study, thoroughly research various schools and programs. Look for those that offer concentrations that align with your future goals.

Some university websites contain detailed information about their degree programs, including admissions requirements, learning format, schedule, curriculum, faculty, etc. Others have few details but provide an electronic form you can fill out to receive more information via email or telephone. Some schools offer or require an internship or field experience, so you should find out what opportunities are available in your area. Furthermore, if you plan to study part-time, you’ll want to find a school that offers this option.

As you do your research, take note of the following factors as well:

• Is the school accredited? Make sure the institution is accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, as well as the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP). This has a direct effect on the quality of education you’ll receive. It also plays a significant role in your eligibility for both financial aid and other postsecondary programs you apply to in the future; most graduate programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Aside from these considerations, a degree from an accredited school will make it easier to find employment after graduation.
• What is the cost of the program? Before spending a lot of time researching a program, check the tuition cost. If it’s more than you want to spend, you needn’t read any further. Remember, though, that cost is only one factor, and it should be weighed against other factors in order to find the program that is the best fit for you. The least expensive program isn’t always the right choice.
• Where is the school located? Although you’ll be doing your coursework online, you may want to take advantage of certain on-campus services, activities, and events. These can include libraries, gyms and fitness centers, job fairs, sporting events and facilities, student clubs and organizations, and more. Plus, if the program is offered only in a hybrid format — requiring you to take some in-person classes — you will need to choose a school that isn’t far from where you live.
• What is the learning format? Online programs are delivered in three different formats — asynchronous, synchronous, and a combination of both. Asynchronous is best for those who have family or work responsibilities or otherwise can’t adhere to a traditional class schedule. This format allows them to study at times convenient for them. Synchronous learning, on the other hand, requires students to be online at specific times. This format facilitates class discussions and better communication between students and instructors. Some programs are mostly asynchronous but require students to be online for certain live classes or lectures. Choose the format that makes the most sense with your learning preferences and responsibilities.

Prepare for tests and applications

Applicants to bachelor’s programs should have a high school diploma or GED equivalency, and all transcripts should be submitted. Each school has its own minimum GPA requirement; for this degree, 2.0 is fairly common. In addition, some schools require SAT or ACT scores, and the range of acceptable scores varies depending on the institution. One or more letters of recommendation may also be required, which can be obtained from high school teachers and counselors.

Some schools offer rolling admissions, but applications and supporting documents should be submitted by the deadline mentioned on the school’s website. Students whose native language isn’t English will be required to submit test scores showing proficiency in English. Since each university has its own admissions policies and requirements, check each website for details or contact the admissions department.

Select your program

Review your research, carefully considering the pros and cons of each program. This will help you narrow down your choices. Determine which programs you will apply to, list them in order of preference, and apply to them all. When all have responded and you have your acceptance letters, select the program that’s highest on your list.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

During the research process, contact the school’s financial aid office to find out about any institutional aid they offer, such as scholarships and grants. They can also provide assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which schools use to determine student’s eligibility for financial aid, including student loans.

Financing may also be available through the university, and some schools allow students to pay per credit hour as they work through the program. Lower tuition is often available to members of the military or their immediate family members. If you’re employed while enrolled in your degree program, find out if your employer offers tuition assistance benefits, which can help offset the cost of tuition and fees.