Special education teachers provide support and instruction to meet the needs of exceptional learners.
Special education teachers must adapt curriculum content to accommodate various learning, behavioral, emotional, and physical disabilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), special education teachers earned an annual median salary of just over $60,000 in 2019. The BLS projects 13,600 new positions for these professionals between 2018 and 2028.
#1 | University of Washington-Seattle | Seattle, WA |
#2 | George Washington University | Washington, DC |
#3 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI |
#4 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL |
#5 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ |
#6 | Purdue University | West Lafayette, IN |
#7 | University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia, MO |
#8 | University of Kansas | Lawrence, KS |
#9 | University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH |
#10 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA |
Master's degrees in special education foster the knowledge and skills needed to develop, implement, and monitor individualized education programs, propelling learners toward their educational goals. This guide ranks the best online special education master's programs. We also include important information for prospective students, such as how to choose the right program and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
Table of Contents
This guide includes everything you need to know about the best online master's in special education programs. Click on a topic to learn more.
Best Online Master's in Special Education Programs
Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
University of Washington-Seattle |
Seattle, WA Apply Now | ||
2 |
George Washington University |
Washington, DC Apply Now | ||
3 |
Michigan State University |
East Lansing, MI Apply Now | ||
4 |
University of Florida |
Gainesville, FL Apply Now | ||
5 |
University of Arizona |
Tucson, AZ Apply Now | ||
6 |
Purdue University |
West Lafayette, IN Apply Now | ||
7 |
University of Missouri-Columbia |
Columbia, MO Apply Now | ||
8 |
University of Kansas |
Lawrence, KS Apply Now | ||
9 |
University of Cincinnati |
Cincinnati, OH Apply Now | ||
10 |
George Mason University |
Fairfax, VA Apply Now | ||
11 |
Indiana University-Bloomington |
Bloomington, IN Apply Now | ||
12 |
The University of Alabama |
Tuscaloosa, AL Apply Now | ||
13 |
University of Houston |
Houston, TX Apply Now | ||
14 |
North Carolina State University at Raleigh |
Raleigh, NC Apply Now | ||
15 |
Auburn University |
Auburn, AL Apply Now | ||
16 |
Miami University-Oxford |
Oxford, OH Apply Now | ||
17 |
University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
Lincoln, NE Apply Now | ||
18 |
Washington State University |
Pullman, WA Apply Now | ||
19 |
Drexel University |
Philadelphia, PA Apply Now | ||
20 |
University of Maine |
Orono, ME Apply Now | ||
21 |
University of Arkansas |
Fayetteville, AR Apply Now | ||
22 |
Kent State University at Kent |
Kent, OH Apply Now | ||
23 |
West Virginia University |
Morgantown, WV Apply Now | ||
24 |
University of North Texas |
Denton, TX Apply Now | ||
25 |
University of Wyoming |
Laramie, WY Apply Now |
End of list, bravo!

Online Master's in Special Education Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing an Online Master's in Special Education Program
When choosing an online master's degree in special education, prospective students should consider factors like cost, transfer policies, and school type. We cover several important considerations for learners below.
- Program Cost: Tuition for an online master's degree in special education varies by institution. Some online programs offer the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state enrollees, while others offer tuition discounts for in-state students.
- Transfer Policies: Prospective students with prior relevant experience should explore whether an institution awards academic credit for prior learning, military training, or professional experience. Attending schools with generous transfer policies can save students time and money on a degree.
- School Size and Type: The size of an institution can influence the number of students in online classes, the amount of personalized attention each learner gets from instructors, and the overall experience. Public colleges and universities typically offer larger class sizes but more degree options than private institutions.
- Program Length: Most master's degrees take two years of full-time study to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines that allow students to graduate in 12-18 months.
- On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs have on-campus requirements. Students should ensure they can meet these requirements before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: An online master's in special education program may include a thesis, internship, or teaching requirement, each with unique time commitments. Students should choose a program with requirements aligned with their interests and goals.
What Is Special Education?
Special education coordinates the delivery of instruction for learners with mild, moderate, and severe learning, physical, behavioral, and emotional disabilities. As part of the public education system, special education finds its way to learners through individualized education plans (IEP). Special education teachers work with counselors, administrators, students, and parents to identify the best services, techniques, and content for individuals with disabilities. They monitor IEPs throughout the school year, keeping detailed records about student progress.
Special education requires patience, communication skills, and adaptability.
Special education teachers work with students of all ages, often focusing on one type of disability. Individuals with hearing and visual impairment, speech and language difficulty, autism spectrum disorders, and mood or emotional disturbances all work with special education teachers. Special education may take place in an inclusive classroom or in a modified environment.
Special education requires patience, communication skills, and adaptability. By offering individuals a curriculum that corresponds to their learning needs, special education provides opportunities for all students to meet their full potentials.
What Is a Master's Degree in Special Education?
A master's degree in special education equips students with the tools needed to instruct individuals with special needs. Learners study theoretical and practical foundations of teaching while learning how to create meaningful experiences for students with disabilities.
Many master's in special education programs cater to practicing teachers. These degrees often require a teaching certificate to enroll. However, some programs only require a bachelor's degree, allowing students to begin a teaching career.
Students cultivate research, critical thinking, and communication skills as they learn how to develop modified lesson plans. Online special education master's degrees include classes on disability law, emotional and behavioral disorders, and human growth and development.
Curriculum for an Online Master's in Special Education
Online master's degrees in special education typically emphasize curriculum design, adaptive instruction, behavioral management, and teaching strategies. Online special education master's programs may also allow students to earn specialized credentials in areas like autism spectrum disorders and applied behavior analysis. The following sections cover common courses and credentials found in these programs, but prospective students should note that offerings vary by program.
- Applied Behavior Analysis: This course introduces students to applied behavior analysis theories, concepts, and principles. Students learn how to assess, intervene, and evaluate special education students. They also learn to measure and analyze behavior, develop methods to reduce negative behaviors, and improve positive behaviors in educational and social settings.
- Addressing Emotional and Social Needs: This course examines the strategies, techniques, and outcomes that pertain to addressing emotional and social needs. Coursework builds communication and listening skills, teaches gratitude and mindfulness practices, and trains students to foster character development among their pupils.
- Classroom Management: Classroom management courses examine theoretical and practical approaches to building efficient, effective, and nurturing learning environments. Master's degree students learn techniques for motivating and engaging learners, discipline models for handling misbehavior, and how to establish and communicate expectations, creating a positive classroom setting.
- Characteristics of Exceptional Learners: This course focuses on how to meet the needs of students with special needs. Learners explore the capabilities and expectations of exceptional learners, building skills that can be used to assist students with behavioral, learning, physical, and social challenges. Classes may integrate a field experience that allows students to observe and work with exceptional learners.
Special Education Certifications and Licenses
Licensure requirements vary by state, but most states require special education teachers to hold a bachelor's degree and relevant teaching experience. Candidates also typically need to pass a background check and licensure examinations. For specific requirements, students should inquire with their state's department or bureau of education.
Some states require educators to take Praxis tests to assess academic skills and subject-specific knowledge. Similarly, the edTPA provides performance-based, subject-specific assessment for future teachers. Experienced educators can also complete examinations offered through the National Board to earn specialized certifications.
Teachers can often transfer their licenses from one state to the next, but requirements can differ significantly by location. Some teachers may need to complete additional requirements before earning full reciprocity to teach in a new state.
Special Education Careers
An online master's degree in special education prepares students for careers in early, elementary, and secondary education. Learners gain the knowledge and competencies needed to work in specialized roles across the educational spectrum.
A special education graduate degree enhances students' understanding of instructional design, teaching strategies, and curriculum development. An advanced degree in education also builds leadership and managerial skills applicable to administrative positions in the field. With a master's degree, individuals can earn additional certifications in education or continue to a doctoral program.
Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers work with exceptional learners at public and private schools. Becoming a public school special education teacher requires state licensure, requisite educational credentials, and experience in the classroom.
Special education teachers work closely with administrators, counselors, students, and parents to identify plans for educational success. By adapting lessons to match individual student needs, special education teachers help exceptional learners reach their full potential.
Patience, strong communication skills, and adaptability serve special education teachers well. With resourcefulness, the ability to think creatively, and analytical strength, special education teachers can thrive.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators oversee the development and implementation of curricula within departments, schools, and districts. They may focus on specific grades or subject areas. Instructional coordinators reinforce teaching standards among educators, keeping abreast of instructional trends, technologies, and regulations.
Most instructional coordinators started as teachers. A teaching background gives instructional coordinators an understanding of student, classroom, and teacher needs, allowing them to provide resources and guidance to enhance educational environments. Instructional coordinators provide training, observe teachers, review classroom performance, and make program changes as needed.
School Principals
School principals work in elementary, middle, and secondary school settings. They supervise instruction, daily activities, and personnel. School administrators like principals ensure efficient, safe school operation while also evaluating teachers and staff, managing budgets, and implementing educational standards.
School principals coordinate with fellow administrators within a school district, often reporting to a school board and a superintendent. They also engage with the community, meet with parents, and serve as liaisons between administrative and instructional personnel.
Communication and critical-thinking skills allow school principals to lead effectively. By collaborating with students, teachers, and staff, school principals help build healthy educational cultures.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Special Education Degree Programs
Colleges and universities in the United States may hold national or regional accreditation, which are awarded by the overseeing agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit technical and vocational schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
When choosing an online master's degree in special education, learners should take accreditation into consideration for several reasons. First, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree.
Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation awards programmatic accreditation for education programs leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement.
law, emotional and behavioral disorders, and human growth and development.Special Education Professional Organizations
Professional organizations for special education teachers provide opportunities for collaboration, networking, and cooperation through discussion forums and conferences. These organizations also offer resources like job boards, mentorship programs, and continuing education programs.
National Association of Special Education Teachers
Dedicated to ensuring children and adolescents with special needs receive access to the best education possible, NASET promotes professional excellence and innovation in special education. Members can access benefits like professional development programs, continuing education courses, professional discounts, career center resources, and association newsletters.
Learning Disabilities Association of America
Made up of academic researchers, clinicians, and scientists, ASB promotes the field of biomechanics. The organization was founded in 1977 and hosts annual conferences, grants awards, and offers a teaching repository with educational resources. Students and professionals alike can access the society's database of grants and career resources.
Council for Exceptional Children
CEC unites educators who seek to advance success among children with exceptionalities. CEC emphasizes integrity, inclusiveness, and visionary thinking through advocacy, standard implementation, and professional development. Members can access publication discounts, mentorship opportunities, networking resources, and professional development programs.