Education can be a fulfilling yet demanding profession, especially for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of students with learning disabilities. Special education is not confined to the walls of public and private classrooms. People with specialized training have opportunities to develop public policy, conduct research and act as educational consultants. Read on to learn more about online special education degrees, including learning outcomes, licensing requirements and avenues for employment.
An online degree in special education will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve a fulfilling career as a special education instructor. The curriculum for these programs outlines methods of classroom management, communication, and student development, all in an online format that benefits students with busy daily schedules. To make the school search process easier on students, we’ve looked into specific data points for each school offering these programs and developed a ranked list of the best schools around the country. Check out below to find the top online special education programs offered in 2017.
| Rank | University Name | Score | Net Price | Financial aid percent | Online Programs Aavailable | Student-Teacher Ratio | Grad Rate | University Information | Credit for Experience | Placement Services | Counseling Services | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Niagara University | Score99.81 | Net Price |
Financial aid %98% |
#Online programs6 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate67% |
Students that choose to study special education at Niagara University have multiple options to choose from. There are different levels of schooling available for those that earn a bachelor’s degree in special education as Niagara University also offers a master’s degree in the program. Students can choose one of the bachelor’s degree programs depending on what they want to focus on as a professional. Because there are multiple degrees offered, Niagara University gives their students the opportunity to focus on what interests them most while also preparing them to become certified teachers after earning their degree. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 2 | Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | Score99.66 | Net Price |
Financial aid %98% |
#Online programs3 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate62% |
When studying toward a bachelor’s degree in special education at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, students will also be preparing themselves to become licensed after graduation. The program is meant to prepare students to step into a professional role after graduating, allowing students to begin the process of becoming a teacher in special education. Students can also focus their studies in certain areas of special education through elective courses. The bachelor’s degree in special education offered by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is also available entirely online, giving those that have busy schedules the chance to complete their degree when it is convenient to them. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 3 | Converse College | Score97.88 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate54% |
Converse College offers multiple different bachelor’s degrees in special education, each of which can help a student earn whichever role they want in the field of special education. Courses are taught by teachers with plenty of experience in special education. Students at Converse College have the chance to gain experience outside of the classroom as well through real-world practice at local schools. The elementary, middle and high school levels are all offered for classroom experience, so students can get the practice and experience that is most closely related to the field they want to end up in. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 4 | University of North Dakota | Score97.81 | Net Price |
Financial aid %30% |
#Online programs6 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate52% |
While there isn't a bachelor’s degree offered in special education at the University of North Dakota, there is a minor program available as well as multiple master’s degree options. Students can spend their undergraduate years at the University of North Dakota focusing on a specific level of education while also pursuing a minor in special education. After, they can earn a master’s degree in special education, depending on what way they want to take their career. Those that pursue a master’s degree can also earn certificates to ensure that their education will go on to help their career. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 5 | University of Southern Mississippi | Score97.29 | Net Price |
Financial aid %74% |
#Online programs3 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate50% |
After earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, students will have all the knowledge, experience and licensure they need to begin their career as a professional teacher. While studying toward a bachelor’s degree in special education, students will be required to spend time in real-world classrooms to learn more about the practice. Also, students will get to spend one semester as a student teacher to help them earn their licensing as a special education teacher after graduation. This degree program is meant to instruct teachers that will teach at all school levels, particularly in the state of Mississippi. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 6 | Minot State University | Score96.79 | Net Price |
Financial aid %70% |
#Online programs4 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate33% |
Minot State University doesn’t want to just teach students that are going to become special education teachers – they want to make sure that their graduates are leaders in their field. Students will spend time making sure they not only know how to teach in a special education setting, but also how to communicate with other teachers both in and outside the special education field. While studying toward their bachelor’s degree in special education, students can choose to concentrate their studies in specific areas to give them more skills for when they eventually become professional teachers. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 7 | Morningside College | Score96.71 | Net Price |
Financial aid %99% |
#Online programs3 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate59% |
When studying toward a bachelor’s degree in special education at Morningside College, students will actually be receiving two degrees. One of the degrees will prepare students to teach in a special education class while the other degree will give students the knowledge and experience to teach a specific grade level. Those that end up earning a bachelor’s degree in special education at Morningside College will get endorsed to become professional teachers in the state of Iowa, but they shouldn’t have a problem finding a career as a special education teacher in a different state. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 8 | Ball State University | Score96.21 | Net Price |
Financial aid %47% |
#Online programs4 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate57% |
There are multiple bachelor’s degrees in special education offered by Ball State University. Each degree will give students the resources they need to become a professional special education teacher, but the different degrees will set them apart when it comes time to apply for a career. Students also have the option to pick a dual degree track which gives them special education experience while also combining it with elementary education. Whichever special education setting students want to focus on, they should be able to find a bachelor’s degree fit for them at Ball State University. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 9 | Carlow University | Score96.04 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate56% |
Carlow University has a few options when it comes to picking a major in the special education field. All bachelor’s degrees in special education at Carlow University come with certification, so students will be prepared to begin their career after graduation. To make sure that students can get certified, they are required to spend time in real-world experiences, meaning spending time in classroom settings to deepen their knowledge of special education. Students can also choose what grade levels they prefer to teach at, and they can use their degree and certification to prepare for that type of setting. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 10 | The University of Alabama | Score95.79 | Net Price |
Financial aid %53% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate67% |
Students that want to earn their master’s degree in special education while also pursuing certification can find everything they need at the University of Alabama. There are multiple master’s degrees offered by the institution, and students can focus on the part of special education that interests them most. The degrees are offered online, so students aren't required to commute to campus. However, some degree programs might require in-person practice, so students that want to earn their master’s degree in special education entirely online will have to pick a program at the University of Alabama that is best suited for them. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| 11 | Eastern Kentucky University | Score95.56 | Net Price |
Financial aid %41% |
#Online programs3 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate37% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 12 | Arkansas State University-Main Campus | Score95.45 | Net Price |
Financial aid %65% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate39% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 13 | Fontbonne University | Score95.37 | Net Price |
Financial aid %94% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate34% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 14 | The University of Texas of the Permian Basin | Score95.33 | Net Price |
Financial aid %86% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate37% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 15 | Buena Vista University | Score95.28 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate51% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 16 | Indiana Wesleyan University | Score95.22 | Net Price |
Financial aid %50% |
#Online programs4 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate70% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 17 | Notre Dame College | Score95.18 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate36% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 18 | Northwest Missouri State University | Score95.16 | Net Price |
Financial aid %93% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate52% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 19 | Graceland University-Lamoni | Score95.14 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate50% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 20 | Southwestern College | Score95.13 | Net Price |
Financial aid %95% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate51% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesNo | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 21 | University of South Florida-Main Campus | Score95.09 | Net Price |
Financial aid %73% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate57% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 22 | University of Idaho | Score95.07 | Net Price |
Financial aid %78% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate56% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 23 | Cardinal Stritch University | Score95.02 | Net Price |
Financial aid %99% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate43% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 24 | University of Central Arkansas | Score94.95 | Net Price |
Financial aid %85% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate41% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 25 | Chaminade University of Honolulu | Score94.91 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate36% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 26 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Score94.86 | Net Price |
Financial aid %69% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate65% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 27 | Campbellsville University | Score94.78 | Net Price |
Financial aid %90% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate44% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 28 | Brenau University | Score94.76 | Net Price |
Financial aid %98% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate45% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 29 | Concordia University-Nebraska | Score94.75 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate63% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 30 | University of Toledo | Score94.73 | Net Price |
Financial aid %85% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate46% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 31 | University of Northern Colorado | Score94.71 | Net Price |
Financial aid %79% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate45% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 32 | Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | Score94.69 | Net Price |
Financial aid %70% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate58% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 33 | University of Arizona | Score94.62 | Net Price |
Financial aid %77% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate61% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 34 | Emporia State University | Score94.56 | Net Price |
Financial aid %76% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate42% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 35 | Prescott College | Score94.51 | Net Price |
Financial aid %90% |
#Online programs3 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate45% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesNo | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 36 | Arcadia University | Score94.49 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate65% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 37 | University of Maine | Score94.47 | Net Price |
Financial aid %78% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate59% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 38 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Score94.45 | Net Price |
Financial aid %98% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate59% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 39 | Upper Iowa University | Score94.42 | Net Price |
Financial aid %90% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate41% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 40 | Georgetown College | Score94.40 | Net Price |
Financial aid %100% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate60% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 41 | Kentucky State University | Score94.39 | Net Price |
Financial aid %61% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate14% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 42 | Saint Leo University | Score94.35 | Net Price |
Financial aid %99% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate43% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 43 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Score94.33 | Net Price |
Financial aid %46% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate75% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 44 | Greenville College | Score94.31 | Net Price |
Financial aid %94% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate54% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 45 | East Carolina University | Score94.29 | Net Price |
Financial aid %50% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate58% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 46 | Auburn University | Score94.28 | Net Price |
Financial aid %65% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate68% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 47 | University of the Southwest | Score94.19 | Net Price |
Financial aid %98% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate22% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesNo | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 48 | Harding University | Score94.15 | Net Price |
Financial aid %91% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate61% | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 49 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | Score94.13 | Net Price |
Financial aid %48% |
#Online programs2 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate36% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less | |
| 50 | Dominican College of Blauvelt | Score94.12 | Net Price |
Financial aid %99% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
| Grad Rate33% | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| University Name | Score | Net Price | Financial aid percent | Online Programs Aavailable | Student-Teacher Ratio | University Information | Credit for Experience | Placement Services | Counseling Services | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Mississippi Community College | Score99.75 | Net Price |
Financial aid %78% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
|
Special education is an important field to be prepared for, and East Mississippi Community College has designed their two-year associate degree to make sure students are ready. The degree program is structured to be transferrable so students can go on to earn a four-year degree at a different institution, helping them along their way to becoming teachers in special education. Most lower division courses will be covered at East Mississippi Community College, so students will be able to transfer to other institutions knowing that they are prepared to complete their degree. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| College of Southern Idaho | Score94.94 | Net Price |
Financial aid %46% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
|
The College of Southern Idaho has created most of their degree programs to help students that aren't entirely sure of what field they want to enter. So students studying toward an associate degree in special education will receive experience in the field while also finding out if it is something that they want to pursue professionally. If they do decide to continue their education and transfer to earn a bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution, the College of Southern Idaho has designed their courses to be easily transferrable to other colleges and universities. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| Henry Ford Community College | Score90.98 | Net Price |
Financial aid %1% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
|
The two-year associate degree in special education at Henry Ford Community College is perfect for those that want to get exposed to special education before committing to the major. The program is a pre-special education path, giving students early exposure to the field of special education. While studying at Henry Ford Community College, students will spend a lot of time learning about the philosophy of teaching as well as teaching techniques. After earning their associate degree, students are encouraged to transfer to a four-year institution to complete their studies and earn a bachelor’s degree. | Credit for ExperienceNo | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
| Lehigh Carbon Community College | Score86.73 | Net Price |
Financial aid %2% |
#Online programs1 |
Student-Teacher Ratio
|
Lehigh Carbon Community College’s associate degree in special education prepares students to eventually become special education teachers after continuing their education. The degree program is meant to give students lower division level knowledge of special education to make their credits easily transferrable to other institutions after earning their associate degree. Students also have the option to study special education on campus or entirely online, depending on which option fits the needs of the individual student best. There are also many electives offered to give students further studies in their desired field. | Credit for ExperienceYes | Placement ServicesYes | Counseling ServicesYes | Read More Read Less |
The bureau of labor statistics provides the following data about job growth in the Special Education industry. As well as the following national median salary data for several different careers in the field of Special Education.
| Career | National Median Salary (May 2014) | Projected Job Growth (2014 – 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Special Education Teachers (All) | $55,980 | 6% |
| Preschool Special Education Teachers | $54,000 | 9% |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Special Education Teachers | $54,570 | 6% |
| Middle School Special Education Teachers | $56,760 | 6% |
| Secondary School Special Education Teachers | $57,810 | 6% |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
Special education teachers work with students who have a variety of learning disabilities that span the spectrum from mild to severe, be they physical, mental, emotional or behavioral. While individuals working in special education can pursue opportunities in public and private schools, nonprofit below is just one potential path for someone with a special education teaching credential.
Completes education degree and certification to work with K-12 students with mild to moderate disabilities
Begins teaching career in a public elementary school working with children who have autism
After three years in the classroom, completes Master of Education with an emphasis in special education
Completes requirements to become a Certified Autism Specialist
Organizes services for autistic students at a private school
After five years, moves into specialist role at public school district, implementing programs for students with autism
University-based teacher preparation programs combine academic instruction with clinical experiences that align with state-based standards and guidelines. More and more programs are being offered online, providing students with flexible options for completing a degree. Below is an overview of the learning experience for online special education degree seekers.
Just like their campus-based counterparts, online teaching programs require students to complete an in-person student teaching practicum. These practicums may be completed in another state and are monitored virtually by supervisors in the program.
Online learning is delivered via a learning management system (LMS) such as Blackboard. Most special education teaching programs are delivered in an asynchronous (self-paced) format that offers students freedom regarding when and where they complete their assignments. Through the LMS, students can access their reading materials, submit assignments and communicate with instructors and peers.
Students use video, online chat, discussion boards, email, bulletin boards and phone calls to communicate and interact with both their students and instructors.
Technology requirements vary from program to program. However, all programs require students to have a reliable computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Updated Web browsers are required to work within learning management systems. Headphones, microphones and a webcam are also typically recommended for student communication and online test proctoring.
Online special education degrees are offered from the bachelor’s to the doctoral level, with plenty of variations sprinkled in to allow students to meet their individual professional goals.
The Bachelor of Science in special education prepares future educators to work with students who have a variety of learning, emotional, behavioral and cognitive disabilities. Typically, these programs require between 120 and 128 credit hours to complete and are arranged around a sequence of study that leads to special education teacher certification in the student’s state of residence. Curriculum is specialized, preparing students to work with learners with mild to moderate or severe to profound disabilities. In turn, coursework provides students with a thorough understanding of the conceptual foundations of child and youth development, assessment and diagnosis, and instructional techniques. Although some programs can be completed in four years, others require a fifth year of study that culminates in a supervised clinical practicum in a preschool, elementary school, middle school, or high school.
The master’s degree in special education is unique because it serves experienced educators licensed in special education as well as students new to education who wish to pursue a career in teaching. To that end, there are two divergent paths of study at the graduate level: Master of Education (MEd) and Master of Arts (MA)/Master of Science (MS).
The MEd and MA are traditionally further divided into three types:
Most master’s programs are between 30 and 36 credit hours and can take anywhere from two to three years of full-time study to complete. For more information, see our guide to the online master’s in special education.
Doctoral programs are the highest academic degrees available in education. They are for individuals who wish to perform original research and prepare for either research or educational leadership positions in special education. Like the master’s degree, two doctoral tracks are available: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD). Both programs require a dissertation and generally require between 60 and 72 credits.
Secondary education master’s degrees generally require 60 credit hours of full-time study to complete and may include a student-teaching component or thesis.
The Education Specialist degree (EdS) is a distinctive program of study for individuals interested in graduate studies in special education who do not wish to complete a doctoral degree. Students, who typically must have a master’s degree in special education (or related field) to apply, undertake a curriculum that blends public policy, leadership, program development and student assessment. Graduates with an EdS may leverage their knowledge to pursue careers as school administrators or special education program directors. Although program requirements vary by program, most require between 30 and 45 credit hours of full-time study to complete.
Graduate certificates in special education serve two populations: individuals who want to work in special education but do not have a teaching license and licensed teachers who want to earn a special education endorsement. Students traditionally complete between 15 and 27 credit hours of study in a curriculum focused entirely around special education topics such as special education leadership, diagnosis assessment, classroom management and reading strategies.
Special education graduate students may pursue specialized academic concentrations such as those listed below:
The curriculum of online special education degree programs is based on evidence-based practices that support students with special needs. Instruction is divided between pedagogical knowledge and mentoring in the form of a yearlong classroom-based experience. In addition to completing core requirements for their level of teaching (e.g., elementary, high school), prospective students also complete specialized coursework to earn their special education endorsement. Classes vary by institution, but the table below offers a look at some common classes offered in these programs.
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Educational Research |
In this course, students learn how to formulate hypotheses, conduct research and prepare reports. |
| Students with Emotional / Social / Behavioral Disorders |
This class discusses social and emotional disorders within the context of an educational setting, teaching students to identify and assess disorders, create a classroom environment conducive to learning, and manage student issues. |
| Students with Multiple Disabilities |
Students study the underlying nature of learning, social and emotional disorders; explore the latest research findings; and review current trends for adapting instructional models to teach students with multiple disabilities. |
| Diagnostic Assessment |
This course covers assessment, from evaluation to student placement, based on response to intervention (RTI). Topics of study include assessment models, parent communication and involvement, and progress reporting. |
| Introduction to Communication |
Students learn about parent-teacher and home-school collaboration and discuss methods to foster communication and partnerships among parents, teachers and students. |
To begin the process of selecting a program, students can compile a list of schools that offer online special education degrees. To review their options, students should consider a variety of different factors, from the quality of the curriculum to the expertise of faculty members. Below is a list of five questions students should ask when choosing a program.
Accreditation is a voluntary process of review that is conducted at both the institutional and programmatic level. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is the primary accrediting organization for teacher preparation programs. CAEP works alongside the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) to establish and align curriculum and accreditation standards with CEC teacher preparation guidelines.
Attending an accredited program is important because state departments of education require it for licensure. For more information, visit our page on the overall accreditation process.
Designed for educators who possess a master’s degree in special education, the EdS in special education prepares students for K-12 leadership opportunities. An EdS is a professionally oriented program of study, so potential students must not only hold a graduate degree but also have years of professional experience prior to applying. Below is a checklist of steps prospective students can take before enrolling in an online EdS graduate program.
| Time Before Program Start Date | |
|---|---|
|
Step 1
Complete Master of Science in special education degree program |
3 to 4 years |
|
Step 2
Gain at least two years of professional experience |
2 to 4 years |
|
Step 3
Take Graduate Record Examination (GRE) |
2 to 4 years |
|
Step 4
Prepare personal statement and request official transcripts and letters of reference |
9 to 12 months |
|
Step 5
Apply to online EdS in special education program |
8 to 10 months |
Admission to online EdS programs is competitive, with most programs receiving more applications than the number of open positions available. Getting accepted to a program requires more than a solid GPA, and candidates should present themselves as academically prepared, well-rounded educators. Below is a list of three ways prospective online EdS students can make their applications more competitive.
Nationally, job growth for special education teachers is projected to reach six percent between 2014 and 2024, according to employment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase is estimated to create nearly 60,000 openings for educators, with the largest gains expected at the preschool level. Salaries for special education teachers are in line with other K-12 educators — the median annual salary for the profession falls between $54,000 and $58,000. Below is a snapshot of salary and job growth information for specific special education careers.
Like other instructors, special education teachers must complete a teacher preparation program as well as a bachelor’s degree to qualify for a teaching license. However, special education teachers may have to take extra steps to earn a special education endorsement and qualify for a state license. Below is a general overview of the special education licensure process.
A state license both permits teachers to work in special education and establishes the scope of their practice. Licensure requirements vary by state but share common traits. Below is a checklist of common licensing steps for special education teachers.
Beyond the core requirements, some states require teachers to take additional steps to earn an endorsement that qualifies them to work with special needs students. Examples of these steps include the following:
Prior to enrolling in a special education program, students are advised to contact their state’s Department of Education to get information about specific licensing requirements.
Special education teachers can earn additional credentials and certifications that enhance their understanding of industry trends and skills for working with students who have special needs. These credentialing programs also help educators demonstrate their commitment to the field and add their name to the list of leaders on the topic. Below is a snapshot of some of the certifications available.
To qualify for board certification, candidates must hold a master’s degree in a field relevant to working with students with special needs, complete five certificates of advanced professional development (see below) and pass certification examinations. Upon successful completion, candidates can use the academy credentials in their title: B.C.S.E. (Board Certified in Special Education).
To qualify for a Certificate of Advanced Professional Development from the American Academy of Special Education Professionals, candidates must have an accredited bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and complete one or more certificate courses. These courses include Principles of IEP Development, Review of the Major Principles of Special Education, Understanding Assessment in Special Education, Understanding Response to Intervention (RTI), and Special Education Eligibility.
Sponsored by the National Special Education Advocacy Institute, the Board Certified Educational Advocate is earned once teachers complete 198 hours of NSEAI-approved curriculum, take 30 hours of continuing education units, do 100 hours of graded practicum experience, pass their examinations, and pay certification fees.
The American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence sponsors a certification in special education for candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, complete a background check, and pass examinations on teaching knowledge and special education.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers a certificate for Exceptional Needs Specialist. To qualify, candidates must have a valid teaching license, a bachelor’s degree or higher, and three years of teaching experience. They must also pass a multicomponent certificate program and examination.
Education is a broad yet dynamic field. Below is a list of related online programs prospective students may want to consider.
Designed for educators who wish to teach grades seven to 12, online secondary education degree programs prepare teachers to work in the classroom and specialize in a specific subject area, such as mathematics, science, English, social studies or a foreign language.
Designed for educators who want to teach grades K-6, online elementary education programs prepare individuals to be effective educators by offering a curriculum that satisfies licensure requirements.
Varied in nature, online child development degree programs may be offered at the certificate, bachelor’s and graduate levels. These programs teach students about the stages of youth development from infancy to adolescence.