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Master's Degree in Special Education
Special education teachers instruct children and design lessons to accommodate students' needs. Demand continues to grow for special education teachers, who earn a median salary of over $61,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With a master's degree, special education teachers can increase their earning potential.
Our list ranks the top online master's in special education programs for 2021. Prospective applicants can use the rankings to find the best fit for their budget and career goals. This article also introduces salary data for special education teachers, common special education master's courses, and scholarships.
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Master's in Special Education: Questions People Also Ask
What kinds of jobs can you get with a special education degree?
A master's in special education degree prepares graduates for careers as special education teachers at the preK-12 grade level. Other potential career paths for graduates include special education instructional coordinator and lead teacher.
How long does it take to get a special education degree?
Earning a master's in special education typically takes two years for full-time students. Some accelerated programs offer a one-year route to a master's degree.
Are special education teachers in demand?
The BLS projects demand for special education teachers to grow 3% between 2019-2029, which is on par with the national average for all occupations.
How much do special education teachers make with a master's degree?
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for special education teachers exceeds $61,000 per year. Educators with a master's degree often earn higher salaries.
Why Get a Degree in Special Education?
A master's degree in special education prepares educators for specialized roles and career advancement. During a master's program, learners gain advanced instructional and assessment skills. Graduates can increase their earning potential and move into roles like lead teacher or special education coordinator.
The online learning format appeals to working educators seeking a master's degree with a flexible schedule. Online master's programs in education typically arrange coursework around the school calendar. Therefore, teachers can continue working while pursuing their master's degree online.
The cost of a master's in special education degree varies by factors like school type, location, and delivery format. Typically, public universities charge lower tuition rates than private schools. For example, Washington State University, a public university, charges $610 per credit for its online master's in special education program. In contrast, the online special education master's degree at Saint Joseph's University, a private school, costs $796 per credit.
Some colleges offer tuition discounts for in-state students and/or online learners. At Purdue University, in-state students in the online master's program in special education pay $379 per credit, while out-of-state students pay $700 per credit. Some programs charge a flat rate for distance learners regardless of residency, which can offer out-of-state students significant savings.
In addition to tuition costs, prospective students should consider related education expenses, such as technology fees, digital education fees, and textbook costs.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
After earning a master's degree in special education, graduates typically pursue careers as special education teachers. According to BLS data, special education teachers earn a median salary of $61,420 per year. However, in many districts, a graduate degree moves teachers onto a higher salary level. The highest-paid special education teachers earn over $100,000 per year.
Salaries also vary by setting. Special education teachers at public schools often earn higher salaries than those at private schools. Teachers at the secondary level also typically earn slightly more than those at the preschool or elementary school level.
Courses in Social Work
A master's degree in special education strengthens analytical, interpersonal, and teaching skills. During a special education master's degree, graduate students complete courses in instructional design, assessment methods, and effective teaching practices.
Many master's in special education programs incorporate a practicum or student-teaching experience to give students real-world training. Learners may also take electives on topics like educational technology, teaching students with autism, and gifted student education.
Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines courses commonly found in master's in special education programs.
Special Education Foundations
The course examines special education theories and practices, including their historical development. Students survey trends in the field and challenges for special education teachers. The class may incorporate practicum hours to strengthen classroom skills.
Assessment in Special Education
The course examines special education assessment tools and methods, appropriate data sources for assessment, and how to make educational decisions based on assessment practices. Coursework also covers diagnostic tools.
Instructional Planning
Classes in instructional planning train special educators to customize lessons based on student needs and abilities. Educators learn how to design instruction around individualized education plans. The class also covers individualized learning progression, specialized curricula, and transition plans.
Certifications and Licensure for Special Education
Special education teachers need a teaching license to work in public schools. In many states, special education jobs also require an endorsement. In addition to these requirements, educators can pursue voluntary certifications to demonstrate their skills.
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers national board certification in 25 certificate areas, including a credential for exceptional needs specialists. Candidates must submit three portfolios demonstrating their experience and pass a computer-based assessment.
Each state's board of education manages the licensure and endorsement process. In many states, candidates for a special education endorsement need specialized training, like a master's degree, to qualify. The endorsement may also require passing scores on a special education teaching examination. The endorsement allows public school educators to pursue teaching roles at the preK-12 level.
The American Academy of Special Education Professionals offers board certification for experienced special education teachers. The credential requires a master's degree from an accredited institution. Candidates must pass five advanced professional development examinations to earn board certification.
Scholarships for Special Education
Professional organizations, private foundations, and federal student aid programs all offer scholarships, fellowships, and grants for students in master's in special education programs. In addition to the following opportunities, master's students should research scholarships based on factors like their state, school district, and university.
The federal student aid program awards TEACH grants to educators pursuing a teaching degree. Graduate recipients must agree to teach in a high-need field, such as special education, after earning their degree.
This scholarship supports graduate students majoring in education. Applicants must submit transcripts and an original 500-word essay.
Online Master's in Special Education Programs 2022
These rankings include
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Lynchburg, Virginia, campus. Students interested in special education can pursue the master of arts in teaching - special education from the institution in a flexible online format.
Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and can access faculty and career advising. Busy learners often benefit from the online program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree-completion time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. The school reports that 57% of enrollees take out loans. Of the institution's learners, 99% receive financial aid, according to the institution.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Total Programs: 229
Number of Online Programs: 161
Online Master's Programs: 68
Number of Online Students: 78,511
Average Per-Credit Tuition: $750
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Transfer Credits Permitted: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Concordia University-Saint Paul
Saint Paul, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Concordia University-Saint Paul's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs, including 20 online master's programs. One option includes a master of arts in special education. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options.
Learners develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialize during advanced classes. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and practical experience while completing internships. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree-completion time. Prospective learners can contact the institution for specific application details.
Online learners pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Enrollees pay an average graduate tuition rate of $8,550, which is about $473 per credit. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers with financial need may qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 98% of students obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,800
Out-of-state
$22,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,550
Out-of-state
$8,550
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
5,137
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Fontbonne University
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Fontbonne University's programs online or in person. Busy learners can enroll in the master of arts in education with a special education concentration program, which the private institution delivers in a convenient online format. Master's graduates can launch a new career in the field.
Faculty advisors help students customize their academic experience and explore issues facing professionals in the special education field. The advanced curriculum builds a graduate-level understanding of modern challenges. Master's students develop analytical and leadership skills they can apply to positions in the industry.
Online degree-seekers benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Financial aid counseling can help degree candidates reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Online learners pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
Fontbonne University Numbers:
Online Master's Programs: 15
Total Online Programs: 8
Number of Online Students: 701
Average Tuition Per Credit: Unavailable
Graduate Tuition In-State: $13,950
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,950
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,760
Out-of-state
$26,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,950
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
1,199
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Nyack College
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Nyack College educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in New York, New York. The school delivers 10 master's programs online, including a master of science in childhood special education.
Master's degree-holders can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. Enrollees can access support services such as academic advising, career-planning resources, and faculty mentorship.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Additional funding options for graduate-level learners include private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Nyack College Facts:
Per-Credit Tuition: N/A
Students Receiving Aid: 100%
Students Receiving Loans: 66%
Total Master's Programs: 15
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Applies Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,000
Out-of-state
$25,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,400
Out-of-state
$12,400
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
1,981
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in online master's programs from the public institution. The affordable master of education in special education program prepares students for careers in special education.
During the first year, master's students take core classes. Degree-seekers take advanced courses in the field and select electives to customize the program to their interests. Degree candidates can gain practical career preparation through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Graduates with a master's in special education can pursue leadership roles. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni identify career opportunities.
The school's cost per credit is unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners can apply for grants and fellowships, along with tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. The school reports that 96% of students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,788
Out-of-state
$20,169
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,583
Out-of-state
$21,242
Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
28,079
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue The University of Alabama's programs online or in person. Learners throughout the country can pursue online master's programs from the public institution. Students interested in special education can pursue the flexible master of arts in special education program.
During the first year of the online program, master's students take core classes. After completing core coursework, degree-seekers take advanced courses covering in-depth special education topics. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program.
Graduates with a master's in special education can pursue leadership roles. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni identify career opportunities.
The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown. Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants, scholarships, and fellowships. According to the school, 79% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their graduate education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
38,100
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Wichita Falls, Texas, Midwestern State University educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in online master's programs from the public institution. The flexible master of education in special education prepares students for a variety of opportunities in special education.
Enrollees complete core special education coursework to develop foundational knowledge. Degree-seekers take advanced courses in the field and select electives to customize the program to their interests. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate students can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the field.
A master's degree can qualify special education professionals for leadership positions and raises. Faculty advisors and career counselors work closely with master's students and alumni to identify career growth opportunities and job placements.
Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Distance learners can apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the cost of earning a master's degree. The school reports that 93% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,567
Out-of-state
$7,516
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,060
Out-of-state
$5,230
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
5,969
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution located in Clemson, South Carolina, Clemson University offers some of the best online courses in the country. In the accredited master of education in special education program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Qualifying students may also receive institutional aid to lower the cost of their degree. The online program incorporates video lectures, assignments, and class discussions throughout the curriculum.
The amount students pay per credit is unknown at this time. Grants and scholarships help grad students cover tuition expenses. In addition to this online special education program, Clemson University offers 17 other master's degrees.
Clemson University Numbers:
Total Online Student Enrollment: 7,423
Online Master's Program Count: 18
Tuition for Graduate Students: $10,600 in-state; $22,050 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $9,672
Average Net Price With Aid: $21,482
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,118
Out-of-state
$37,110
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,600
Out-of-state
$22,050
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
25,822
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Minot State University
Minot, ND
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at Minot State University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including special education. The public institution's student population includes degree-seekers studying on campus in Minot, North Dakota, along with 1,328 individuals pursuing online studies. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals.
The master of science in special education features a rigorous curriculum, helping degree-seekers develop foundational knowledge in the field. Faculty mentors work with graduate students to ensure the curriculum aligns with their professional goals. While pursuing the online master's degree, learners complete a flexible curriculum and develop industry-specific skills. Graduates often secure high-level special education positions. Current and former students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
Master's degree-seekers can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling to ensure they choose the best academic and professional tracks. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. They may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid. The institution's cost per credit is unknown.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,088
Out-of-state
$6,088
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,049
Out-of-state
$8,049
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,125
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Bemidji, Minnesota, Bemidji State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. In addition to in-person options, the school offers multiple online graduate programs. One option includes a master of special education.
Enrollees can receive academic advising from special education faculty members. The online special education program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy learners. The master's program generally takes full-time degree-seekers 1-2 years to complete.
Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Of enrollees, 53% take out loans to fund their degree. In addition, financial aid assists 90% of the institution's learners with the cost of their education.
Bemidji State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 83
Number of Online Programs: 17
Online Master's Programs: 14
Number of Online Students: 2,213
Per-Credit Tuition: Unavailable
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,858
Out-of-state
$7,858
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,779
Out-of-state
$7,779
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
4,897
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Texas A&M University-College Station
College Station, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Texas A&M University-College Station's programs online or in person. In addition to studying in person, learners can pursue the school's graduate degrees online. The institution offers a master's in special education that features rigorous coursework as well as access to faculty and career advising.
Working professionals can benefit from the online special education program's flexible enrollment options. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree in special education.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Of the student population, 31% take out loans. Learners can also pay for school using various forms of financial aid, which 76% of the institution's learners obtain.
Texas A&M University-College Station Facts:
Total Programs: 409
Number of Online Programs: 57
Online Master's Programs: 121
Number of Online Students: 9,451
Per-Credit Cost: Unavailable
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,941
Out-of-state
$34,190
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,677
Out-of-state
$18,700
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Indiana University-Bloomington
Bloomington, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Indiana University-Bloomington offers one online program for distance learners. The school reports that 5,535 students take online classes. Enrollees can pursue an online master's in special education. The accredited program offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for special education careers. Learners benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty.
The institution's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. Online students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes it easier for master's candidates to cover the cost of their degree. The school reports a graduation rate of 79% for its programs.
Indiana University-Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,575
Out-of-state
$35,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,501
Out-of-state
$31,932
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
43,260
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Northern Arizona University enrolls students in one online program. The Flagstaff-based university enrolls 7,915 students in its online courses. Degree-seekers can pursue a master of education in special education.
The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The degree prepares graduates for careers in special education with advanced skills and knowledge. The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty.
The college's website provides additional information about online student services. Degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps learners afford the master's degree with less debt. Students can expect a graduation rate of 57% at the school.
Northern Arizona University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,018
Out-of-state
$16,613
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,305
Out-of-state
$19,522
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
30,733
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from Northwest Missouri State University. The school's offerings include on-campus graduate programs and online master's programs. The institution's master of education in special education prepares online students to succeed in the workplace.
Learners can pursue the online program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's.
Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Of the student body, 54% take out loans, which require repayment, to fund their degree. Additionally, 98% of learners receive financial aid.
Northwest Missouri State University Numbers:
Total Programs: 128
Number of Online Programs: 14
Online Master's Programs: 35
Number of Online Students: 2,759
Average Fee Per Credit: $390
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,956
Out-of-state
$10,738
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,004
Out-of-state
$6,004
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
7,104
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Ball State University
Muncie, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners attending Ball State University can choose from top-ranked online master's programs in many fields, including special education. The Muncie-based institution's student population includes 9,809 online learners. Busy enrollees often benefit from online programs' scheduling flexibility and complete academic requirements around their schedule.
The master's in special education features a rigorous curriculum, helping degree-seekers develop foundational knowledge in the field. In addition to completing major courses, students customize the master's curriculum by choosing electives. The program's flexible scheduling options make earning a master's more convenient for busy learners. Graduates often land competitive roles in their field. Master's students can benefit from the institution's career services as they prepare to enter the workforce.
Learners in the school's master's programs can access career advising and financial aid counseling. Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree candidates who need additional funding can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships. The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,358
Out-of-state
$26,138
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,850
Out-of-state
$21,954
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
22,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Missouri State University-Springfield educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Springfield campus. Learners who want to maintain full-time employment while studying can enroll in one of the school's many online programs.
One option includes a special education alternative certification track. Learners who are new to the field and those with established special education careers can benefit from this program. Degree-seekers can access support services such as faculty mentorship and career counseling.
Enrollees studying online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. The school holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Missouri State University-Springfield at a Glance:
Average Price Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 97%
Students Receiving Loans: 44%
Total Master's Programs: 52
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$14,850
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,202
Out-of-state
$10,476
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
23,453
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
Minnesota State University-Mankato stands out among schools offering online programs. Students can pursue 37 online programs from the public institution, along with in-person academic offerings. At the school, graduate degree-seekers can enroll in the master's in special education program. Working professionals can complete academic requirements around their schedule.
The graduate-level curriculum features specialized special education classes and foundational core coursework. Specialized electives and experiential learning opportunities allow enrollees to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate. Prospective learners can contact the institution for specific application details.
The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $7,694. Enrollees at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. The school reports that 88% of its student body receives financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,694
Out-of-state
$7,694
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
14,325
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Campbellsville University enrolls students in one online program. The Kentucky school enrolls about 7,704 students who take at least some online courses. Graduate students can earn their master's in special education teacher leader degree online at the college. The accredited curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for special education careers. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, giving enrollees one-on-one attention from faculty.
The program's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The school charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. Learners can expect a 36% graduation rate at the school.
Campbellsville University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,561
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 14
Average Cost Per Credit: 423
Graduate Tuition: $12,240 per year
The school has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,240
Out-of-state
$12,240
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
12,381
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
The University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Tyler offers undergraduate and graduate programs. In addition to in-person options, the school offers multiple online graduate programs. Distance students can pursue an online master of education in special education from the institution.
To succeed in the rigorous master's program, enrollees can receive academic advising from faculty members. Working professionals can benefit from the online program's flexible enrollment options. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Of enrollees, 34% fund their degree through student loans, according to the school's data. In addition, 85% of the institution's learners qualify for financial aid.
The University of Texas at Tyler Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 76
Number of Online Programs: 15
Online Master's Programs: 34
Number of Online Students: 5,951
Average Per-Credit Fee: N/A
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$20,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,850
Out-of-state
$14,328
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
9,617
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Online Master’s Degree in Special Education
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Odessa, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Situated in Odessa, The University of Texas of the Permian Basin offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Learners across the country can pursue the school's three online master's programs without relocating.
One option includes a master of arts in special education. The flexible course options and rigorous curriculum allow professionals to launch or advance their career. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
Enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin Facts:
Per-Credit Price: N/A
Students Receiving Aid: 91%
Students Receiving Loans: 39%
Total Master's Programs: 19
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,867
Out-of-state
$5,767
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,594
Out-of-state
$5,220
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
5,283
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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