Top 30 Online Master’s in Special Education Degrees 2017

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In this article, we profile the top 30 online master's in special education degree programs for 2017.

A degree in special education qualifies you for roles as special educators in school settings and childcare services. Earning a master's degree in special education provides even more career opportunities and advancement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for special educators is expected to grow six percent over the next seven years. This growth is expected to happen as current teachers leave the profession and these openings need to be filled.

Today, online options are available so that you do not need to step away from your daytime teaching responsibilities in order to pursue your master's degree. Online master's in special education degree programs are now offered by some of the nations top-ranked institutions.

We looked at 147 accredited colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered online master's in special education degrees, or closely related programs. We narrowed our original list of schools by choosing those with regional or national rankings from major publications like Forbes magazine or U.S. News and World Report. We then listed them in order of affordability based on the in-state graduate tuition rates published by NCES College Navigator.

The resulting selections for our top 30 online master's in special education degrees are listed below in order of affordability.

#30 – Drexel University

Online Master's in Special Education

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $33,024

Drexel University is a top-ranked institution that offers an accredited online master's degree in special education. Five areas of concentration are also available, including autism spectrum disorders, collaborative special education law and process, or technologies for special education. Certification options are also available. The program is organized into four ten-week quarters per year, which means more courses are taken in a shorter time period. Courses include emotional and behavioral support of individuals with disabilities, integrating technology for learning and achievement, and teaching individuals with high incident disabilities. Drexel is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 96th best national university and 65th best value school. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #84 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Drexel University

#29 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master of Education in Special Education

University Park, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,216

Pennsylvania State University's online master's in special education is a 32-credit hour program that focuses on current issues and challenges faced in the field of special education. All courses are delivered online, and three areas of emphasis are available. These emphasis areas include academic and behavioral supports, applied behavior analysis, and autism. Online courses, no matter the area of emphasis, include introduction to research in special education, teaching learners with disabilities in inclusive settings, and a capstone seminar in special education. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. GRE scores are not required. Penn State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 50th best national university.

For more information: Pennsylvania State University

#28 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Master's in Special Education

Manchester, New Hampshire

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire University offers one of the most affordable online special education master's programs on our list. The program is ideal for students seeking certification or additional endorsement in special education within the state of New Hampshire. All courses are delivered online so that students do not have to attend traditional on-campus classes. Courses are designed not to conflict with daytime teaching obligations. These online courses include assessment of student performance, classroom and behavior management, learning theories and instruction, special education assessment, and students and exceptionalities. Southern New Hampshire is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the #1 most innovative school and the 101st best regional university in the North.

For more information: Southern New Hampshire University

#27 – Quinnipiac University

Online Master's in Special Education

Hamden, Connecticut

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,450

Quinnipiac University's online special education degree program prepares graduates for careers as special educators. The MS in special education degree consist of 27 credit hours of foundational coursework and a 3-credit capstone thesis that is written under the guidance of a faculty member. All courses are taught online and include autism spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral disorder identification and assessment, introduction to the exceptional child, specific learning disabilities, and understanding and teaching students with intellectual disabilities. Quinnipiac is the 11th best regional university in the North and the 42nd best value school, according to U.S. News and World Report.

For more information: Quinnipiac University

#26 – Michigan State University

Online Master's in Special Education

East Lansing, Michigan

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,764

Michigan State University's College of Education offers one of the top special education master's programs online on our list. Students may earn a special education master's in either autism spectrum disorders or learning disabilities. All classes are taught by university professors and delivered in a convenient online format. The program is ideal for those working a daytime teaching job. Online courses include assessment of students with mild disabilities, classroom and behavior management, collaboration and consultation in special education, and technology and literacy for students with mild disabilities. Michigan State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 82nd best national university in the country. Also, the graduate online education programs rank #8 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Michigan State University

#25 – Saint Joseph's University

Online Master's in Special Education

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,092

Saint Joseph's University offers an accredited online master's degree in special education with two concentration options in autism endorsement and Wilson Reading System. The master's can be completed entirely online and is ideal for individuals interested in becoming career special educators. Coursework includes topics in culturally responsive teaching, design and technology for differentiated instruction, diagnostic assessment and progress monitoring, foundations and current issues in special education, and theory and instructional practice for students with high incidence disabilities. Admission to the program is competitive and requires an earned bachelor's from an accredited institution. Saint Joseph's is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 11th best regional university in the North. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #98 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Saint Joseph's University

#24 – University of Cincinnati

Online Master's in Special Education

Cincinnati, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,468

University of Cincinnati offers one of the best online special education master's programs on our list. Graduates may earn a master's in special education with a concentration in one of four areas of emphasis, such as advanced studies, autism spectrum disorder, behavior disorders, and transition to work. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who regularly instruct on campus. These classes include applied behavior analysis, autism spectrum disorders, collaboration and team, and transition strategies for individuals with disabilities. University of Cincinnati is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 135th best national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #43 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Cincinnati

#23 – Washington State University

Online Master's in Special Education

Pullman, Washington

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,753

Washington State University's online master's in special education is accredited and affordable. The program is designed for working students and is comprised of 37 credits that can be completed entirely online. Required courses include assessment and curriculum for students with disabilities, education of exceptional children, inclusion strategies for special education teachers, methods in intensive educational supports, and social foundations of education. The program also addresses the competencies for special educators outlined by Washington State Special Education Core Competencies. WSU is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks WSU as the 143rd best national university in the country.

For more information: Washington State University

#22 – University of Florida

Online Master's in Education – Special Education

Gainesville, Florida

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737

University of Florida offers some of the best special education master's programs online. Working students may take advantage of online instruction to earn a master's in education with special education concentration. The program consists of 36 credit hours and six track options that allow students to tailor their special education degree toward career goals. Track options include autism focus, disabilities in society, early childhood studies, education and healthcare transition, dyslexia, and a general focus. University of Florida is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 50th best national university and 14th top public school in the country. Also, the graduate online education programs rank #1 out of more than 1,200 program surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: University of Florida

#21 – University of Arizona

Online Master's in Special Education

Tucson, Arizona

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,383

University of Arizona's online special education degree is a graduate program designed specifically with the licensed educator in mind. Students may earn a master's in special education with three specialization options to choose from. These areas of focus include behavioral support, deaf and hard of hearing, and disabilities. Concentration areas are also available so that students may tailor their degree toward career goals. Concentrations include autism spectrum disorders, challenging behavior, gifted students, and sensory impairments. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 124th best national university and 60th top public school.

For more information: University of Arizona

#20 – Old Dominion University

Online Master's in Special Education

Norfolk, Virginia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,480

The accredited online master's in special education degree program from Old Dominion University is offered through the school's Darden College of Education and Department of Communication Disorders and Special Education. All courses are delivered online and taught by university professors. Classes include interactive instructional technology, participation in an online community, professional development using Council for Exceptional Children program standards, and synchronous and asynchronous components. A total of 30 credit hours are required for completion of the degree. Old Dominion is a top-ranked national university and best public school. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the university as among the top in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #77 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Old Dominion University

#19 – Western Kentucky University

Online Master's in Teacher Leadership – Special Education

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,400

Western Kentucky University's online master's degree in special education offers two tracks of study: Learning and behavior disorders and moderate and severe disabilities. Graduates earn a master of teacher leader in special education, which can be completed entirely online. No matter which track is selected, students are required to earn a total of 37 credit hours and maintain a grade of C or higher in all classes. Also, the program requires the completion and presentation of research results in an approved venue. Western Kentucky is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 31st best regional university in the South and 10th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #35 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Western Kentucky University

#18 – Xavier University

Online Master's in Special Education

Cincinnati, Ohio

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,920

Xavier University's online master's in special education degree program is designed for professionals such as general and special educators interested in earning a master's degree that will enhance their current skillset. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who instruct on campus. Courses include addressing behavior disorders, best practices in disability services, facilitating the transition to work, and teaching gifted students. While the program does offer the training necessary to become experts in the field of special education, it does not provide licensure in any state. Xavier is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 4th best regional university in the Midwest.

For more information: Xavier University

#17 – Auburn University

Online Master's in Early Childhood Special Education

Auburn, Alabama

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,696

Auburn University offers unique types of special education master's programs online, including the master of education in early childhood and elementary special education. The special education master's may be completed entirely online with classes taught by the same professors who teach on the Auburn campus. Courses include advanced assessment in special education, advanced behavior management in special education, curriculum and teaching in specialization, rehabilitation assistive technology, and teaching methods in special education. Approximately 1/3 of the program requires teaching field courses. Auburn is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school 99th among the best national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #10 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Auburn University

#16 – University of Kansas

Online Master's in Special Education

Lawrence, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,438

University of Kansas offers special education master's programs online for individuals who want the flexibility of an advanced education program. Three program tracks are offered, including the teacher track, non-teacher track, and endorsement only pathway. All courses are delivered online and are eight weeks in length. A total of 33 credits are required over the course of two years. Courses include advanced methods and assessment, family and inter-professional collaboration in special education, and transition education and services. Admission to the program does not require GRE scores, although candidates must have a completed bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better. University of Kansas is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The online graduate education programs rank #136 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Kansas

#15 – Purdue University

Online Master's in Special Education

West Lafayette, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,002

Purdue University offers online special education master's programs designed with working students in mind. Different tracks are available for the completion of the master's in special education degree. These tracks include master's only, master's in initial special education licensure, master's with advanced special education licensure, and master's with advanced special education licensure (intense intervention). The program takes approximately 20 months to complete and can be done entirely online. Courses include applied behavior analysis for teachers, collaboration and transition, introduction to educational research, intervention strategies and research, and social and ethical issues in special education. Purdue is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 60th best national university in the country. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #35 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Purdue University

#14 – Indiana University

Online Master's in Special Education

Bloomington, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,996

One of the most affordable special education master's programs online on our list is located at Indiana University. The university offers an online master's in special education degree program designed to prepare graduates for the challenges of special education within today's classrooms. Students may select one of four specialty tracks, including autism, behavior disorders, early childhood education, or instructional strategies. The emphasis area requires four classes for a total of 12 credits. Students also complete a final capstone project or thesis in special education. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who teach on campus. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Indiana University is ranked as the 86th best national university in the most recent edition of Best Colleges. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #22 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Indiana University

#13 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master's in Special Education

Richmond, Kentucky

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,750

Eastern Kentucky University's online special education degree programs consist of several master's in special education degrees with areas of emphasis or certifications. Various areas of specialization include deaf and hard of hearing, interdisciplinary early childhood education, and behavior disorders. All programs are offered entirely online with some acceleration options available. Core courses may include advanced special education assessment, educational management of learning and behavior disordered students, roles for special educators, and special education statutes and regulations. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Eastern Kentucky University as the 79th best regional university in the South and 29th top public school. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #92 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Eastern Kentucky University

#12 – Ball State University

Online Master's in Special Education

Muncie, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,048

Ball State University's online master's degree in special education program offers five 100% online focus areas and three blended specializations. Those areas that can be completed entirely online include applied behavior analysis, autism, director of special education and exceptional needs, response to interventions, and severe interventions. Courses include behavioral consultation, introduction to behavior disorders, and research in special education. Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and a strong GPA of 3.0 or better within the latter half of the bachelor's program. Ball State is a ranked and accredited institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #176 among the best national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Ball State University

#11 – Texas A&M University

Online Master's in Special Education

College Station, Texas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,904

The graduate online special education degree programs from Texas A&M University are specifically designed for general and special educators, counselors, or administrators. The 36 credit hour program may be completed in two years with courses delivered entirely online. There is also an 18-credit online option for an applied behavior analysis certificate that can be added onto the special education degree. Online courses include applied behavior management, ethics and professional conduct in special education, and program development for students with behavior problems. Texas A&M is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 74th best national university and 21st best value school. The online graduate education programs rank 72nd out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Texas A&M University

#10 – University of Maine

Online Master's in Special Education

Orono, Maine

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,666

University of Maine's special education master's program online degrees have three optional concentration areas, including early intervention, high incidence, and low incidence. Courses are delivered online, and curriculum covers the requirements for state certification as Teacher of Students with Disabilities. Courses include diversity in development, intervention for reading difficulties, program planning and management, and special education regulations and case management. Admission to the special education programs requires satisfactory performance on the GRE or MAT and evidence of completion of fingerprinting for a background check. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 183rd best national university and 99th top public school. Also, the graduate online education programs are ranked #123 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Maine

#9 – University of North Dakota

Online Master's in Special Education

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,643

University of North Dakota offers an accredited online special education degree for graduate students. The online master's in special education is a 100% online program that can be completed within 1.5 or more years. All classes are offered asynchronously with options to tailor the degree toward career goals. This means students are able to choose one of nine areas of specialization that appeal to personal interests or career plans. Specialization areas include autistic spectrum disorders, early childhood special education, gifted and talented, or special education strategist. An online autistic spectrum disorders graduate certificate is also available. University of North Dakota is a top-ranked national university. U.S. News and World Report also ranks many of the school's online graduate programs.

For more information: University of North Dakota

#8 – Liberty University

Online Master's in Special Education

Lynchburg, Virginia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,430

Some of the most affordable online special education master's programs are offered by Liberty University. Graduates of the program earn an online master's in teaching (MAT) with a specialization in special education. The 36-credit hour program offers courses entirely online with three on-campus intensives. Students must also complete a 3-credit hour student teaching internship as part of the program requirements. Online classes are taught by university professors and include foundations of exceptionality, learning theory, and principles of behavior management. Liberty is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as top national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #174 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Liberty University

#7 – University of Arkansas

Online Master's of Education in Special Education

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,350

The University of Arkansas offers one of the most affordable online master's degree in special education programs on our list. This 100% online program consists of 36 credit hours and takes approximately two years to complete. Concentration options are also available for those interested in obtaining additional licensure. Admission to the program does require the GRE and a complete application. All classes are delivered online and include creativity in daily practice, curriculum theory and development for educators, multicultural issues in elementary education, and the moral mind in action. The school is ranked nationally by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks University of Arkansas as the 135th best national institution. Also, the online graduate education programs are ranked #47 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Arkansas

#6 – Bemidji State University

Online Master of Special Education (MSpEd)

Bemidji, Minnesota

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,020

Bemidji State University's online special education master's programs are some of the most affordable in the country. This online MSpEd degree program is designed for working teachers who want to enhance their special education knowledge and skillset. The program consists of 39 credits in courses and a research-based project. All courses are taught online by university professors who routinely teach on campus. Admission to the special education graduate program requires a complete application that includes two letters of recommendation and an official undergraduate transcript with a GPA of 3.00 or better. An earned bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. Bemidji State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 115th best regional university in the Midwest and 35th top public school.

For more information: Bemidji State University

#5 – Indiana State University

Online Master's in Special Education

Terre Haute, Indiana

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,328

One of the most affordable online master's in special education degree programs on our list is offered by Indiana State University. The online program is designed for students desiring advanced preparation for positions as special educators in public and private schools settings. This program consists of 39 credits, which may be completed in 14 months with full-time study. All courses are delivered online and include assistive technology, behavior management, diversity and disability in today's schools, learning strategies in math and science, and strategies in reading and language arts. Indiana State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online graduate education programs rank #113 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Indiana State University

#4 – University of South Alabama

Online Master's in Special Education

Mobile, Alabama

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,326

Two online master's degree in special education programs are available from the University of South Alabama. Both are traditional master's of education degrees in special education with options for the Class A, K-6 or 6-12 Collaborative Teacher Certificate. Admission to the program is selective, and MAT or GRE (including analytical writing section) scores are required. All courses are delivered online and include ecological curriculum and methods, educational research and evaluation, human development and behavior, methods for special needs learners, and psychological principles of learning. University of South Alabama is a top ranked national institution according to U.S. News and World Report. In fact, several of the online graduate programs have earned rankings and recognition.

For more information: University of South Alabama

#3 – Western Governors University

Online Master's in Special Education

Salt Lake City, Utah

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790

Western Governors University offers an accredited online special education degree for individuals seeking a master's level program that is NCATE-accredited. The online master's in special education degree is for individuals who are able to spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies. The program is also designed to be completed in 2 to 2.5 years depending on student pace. Courses are delivered entirely online and include behavioral management and intervention, foundations of instructional design, issues in instructional design, psycho-educational assessment practices and IEP development, and research questions and literature review. U.S. News and World Report ranks Western Governors University as a top regional university in the West.

For more information: Western Governors University

#2 – Valdosta State University

Online Master's in Special Education

Valdosta, Georgia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,490

One of the most affordable online special education master's programs on our list is found at Valdosta State University. This top-ranked and accredited program offers a master's in special education degree to qualifying students. Admission requires passing scores on the GACE program admission assessment and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on all undergraduate coursework. A total of 36 credit hours are required in various classes such as collaboration in education settings, evidence based methods and instruction, language and learning disabilities, and teaching reading. A research requirement in a single subject special education area must also be satisfied prior to graduation. Valdosta is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. In fact, the online graduate education programs rank #123 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: Valdosta State University

#1 – Fort Hays State University

Online Master's in Special Education

Hays, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,055

Fort Hays State University offers the most affordable online master's in special education degree program on our list. This 36-credit hour program may be completed entirely online with classes taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. The program is fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Kansas State Department of Education. The program also offers two pathways. Students may choose either the gifted or high-incidence special education emphasis. Fort Hays State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online graduate education degree programs are ranked #77 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

For more information: Fort Hays State University

BMD Staff
April 2017

This concludes our list of the top 30 online master's in special education degrees for 2017.