By Melissa Maypole
The field of special education is a growing one in nearly every state in the nation, making it a good choice for teachers who wish to devote themselves to educating those children whose disabilities make school a struggle. Universities across the United States are providing more and more options for current and prospective special education teachers, including hybrid programs, online courses, evening classes, and more. The schools listed here, however, have gone above and beyond by providing these options at an affordable cost, making the dream of becoming a stellar special education teacher within reach for more aspiring instructors.
Methodology
To compile this list of the most affordable private non-profit schools for a master’s in special education, we scoured the NCES database College Navigator to find private non-profile institutions offering master’s in special education. From among the more than 200 results, we identified the 50 with the lowest reported graduate tuition and fees. Additional information was collected directly from university websites.
#50 – George Mason University (Mason Online)
Special Education (MEd)
Fairfax, Virginia
Tuition: $24,150
Ok – George Mason may not be a private for-profit, so you might be wondering what it’s doing on this list. When an online special education master’s offers such an exceptional value, sometimes you have to bend the rules a bit to make sure people know about it. Offering the option to choose between a concurrent graduate certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders or a full-on Applied Behavior Analysis Certificate that includes the Verified Course Sequence required to take the BCBA® exam, the MEd in Special Education at George Mason Online delivers a lot for the money.
#49 – University of Hartford
Master of Education in Special Education
West Hartford, Connecticut
Tuition: $18,600
The Master of Education in Special Education from Hartford University is offered entirely online and is a convenient and affordable way to hone your skills in the area of special education. The 30 credit hour program is designed to be completed in two consecutive years. It is comprehensive in nature and covers an array of special education topics and areas including learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral issues, and intellectual disabilities. An integrated research requirement serves as the capstone project for the program.
#48 – Meredith College
Master of Education, Master of Arts in Teaching
Raleigh, North Carolina
Tuition: $11,466
Meredith College offers two nationally recognized programs for individuals looking to begin or continue a career in special education: a Masters of Education with a concentration in special education (general curriculum) and a Master of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in special education. Meredith graduates have a 100% passing rate on the PRAXIS exam required for certification and are in high demand by school districts. Students will benefit from small class sizes and a collaborative learning environment led by experienced teachers in the field.
#47 – Cardinal Stritch University
Master of Arts in Inclusive Education
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Tuition: $11,304
The unique Master of Arts in Inclusive Education from Cardinal Stritch University prepares students to teach kids with varying levels of abilities in both regular education and special education settings. This approach to the special education degree results in teachers who are more flexible and more marketable to school districts and principals. Students who opt to complete the certification portion of the program will be eligible for the Middle Childhood- Early Adolescence Regular Education license and the Middle Childhood- Early Adolescence Cross Categorical Special Education license.
#46 – University of Mary
Master of Education
Bismarck, North Dakota
Tuition: $11,114
The University of Mary offers a Special Education Strategist Master of Education Program that can be taken in a blended format of online and on-site courses. Classes are conveniently scheduled during the evenings, weekends, and summers to accommodate practicing teachers’ schedules. Students have the option to complete a thesis or professional portfolio as their capstone project. As a Catholic university, the curriculum will include Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine values. Specific course titles include Special Education Law, Education of Students with Emotional Disorders, Behavior Management, and Advanced Methods and Materials –Learning Disabilities.
#45 – University of Scranton
Master of Science in Special Education
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Tuition: $10,806
The Master of Science in Special Education degree program from the University of Scranton offers students two paths to certification: one for Pre K-8 certification and one for 7-12 certification. Both paths require 39 credit hours as well as a comprehensive examination and a student internship. Specialty course titles include Inclusionary Classroom Practices, Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders & Applied Behavioral Analysis, Special Education Assessment, Evidence- Based Practices for Students with Low Incidence Disabilities, and Introduction to Assistive Technology in the Classroom.
#44 – Brandman University
Master of Arts in Special Education
Irvine, California
Tuition: $10,800
Brandman University offers a Master of Arts in Special Education degree program in three different areas: Special Education Behavior Analysis, Special Education Advanced Methodology, and Special Education Autism. All three of these programs can be completed online or from one of the school’s many campus locations throughout California and Washington state. These programs are aligned with the Council for Exceptional Children’s Advanced Content Standards. Students may combine courses to complete the degree program with more than one emphasis if desired.
#43 – National University
Master of Science in Special Education
La Jolla, California
Tuition: $10,638
National University offers two degree programs from the Department of Special Education: the Master of Science in Special Education (California only) and the Master of Science in Special Education with Nevada Licensure in Special Education and Endorsement for Generalist Resource Room (Nevada only). The former is aligned with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and allows students to become certified while pursuing a Master’s degree. The latter also leads to certification and meets the requirements set forth by the Nevada Department of Education.
#42 – Assumption College
Master of Arts in Special Education
Worcester, Massachusetts
Tuition: $10,620
The Master of Arts in Special Education program from Assumption College is a Massachusetts state-approved program designed to prepare teachers for the challenges of teaching students with mild to moderate disabilities in inclusive settings. Teachers seeking initial licensure will have an added field experience to enhance their coursework and provide opportunities for real-world application. The 33- credit hour program includes course titles such as Foundations of Special Education, Teaching English Language with and without Special Needs, Developmental Pathways and Challenges, and Behavioral Assessments and Interventions.
#41 – Anna Maria College
Master of Education
Paxton, Massachusetts
Tuition: $10,530
Anna Maria College offers two options for students who wish to expand their knowledge in the field of special education. The Master of Education, Teacher of Student with Moderate Disabilities track prepares students for licensure in the state of Massachusetts and enables them to work with special needs children in grades PreK-8 or 5-12. For those who already hold a teaching license and are practicing professionals, there is the Master of Education for Professional Practice in the area of Moderate Disabilities. Advanced graduate studies are also available.
#40 – University of the Southwest
Master of Science in Education
Hobbs, New Mexico
Tuition: $10,440
The University of the Southwest offers a Master’s of Science in Education program entirely online for working professionals in need of a flexible schedule. The degree program includes core courses such as Educational Research and Exceptional Populations in Regular Classrooms as well as specialization courses such as Learners with Disabilities, Advanced Classroom Management, Learners with Behavior Disorders, Nature and Needs of the Gifted Child, and Special Education Curriculum. Students are required to pass a comprehensive exam at the culmination of the program.
#39 – University of Saint Mary
Master of Arts in Education
Leavenworth, Kansas
Tuition: $10,440
The Master of Arts program in Special Education from the University of Saint Mary focuses on adaptive special education and is available from the school’s Overland Park campus. Classes meet in the evenings, most of them on Monday through Thursday. The 33 credit hour program features eleven required classes including Introduction and Characteristics of Students with Adaptive Learning Needs, Collaborations with Parents and Agencies, Assessments of Students with Adaptive Learning Needs, and Creating Optimal Learning Environments for Students with Adaptive Learning Needs.
#38 – Point Loma Nazarene University
Master of Arts in Special Education
San Diego, California
Tuition: $10,440
Point Loma Nazarene University offers a Master of Arts in Special Education degree program that can be completed in as little as eighteen months through a combination of online classes and traditional, face-to-face meetings. Enrolled students will have the option to add a number of different authorizations as part of the program, including: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Emotional Disturbance, and Early Childhood Special Education. The goal of this program is to equip, transform, and empower special education teachers to provide the best possible instruction for students of varying disabilities.
#37 – Pfeiffer University
Master of Special Education
Misenheimer, North Carolina
Tuition: $10,350
Pfeiffer University offers a Master of Special Education degree program from its Charlotte campus. The 39-45 semester hour program is approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) and is taught via evening classes, with some online components. Specialty courses include Literacy and Language Development for Students with Special Needs, Differentiated Instruction for Students with Special Needs, Classroom and Behavior Management for Students with Special Needs, and Special Education Service Coordination. The curriculum also contains service learning components and a student internship.
#36 – Freed-Hardeman University
Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education
Henderson, Tennessee
Tuition: $9,900
Freed-Hardeman offers a Master of Arts in Teaching, Special Education degree program, a 37 credit-hour program that culminates in a 12-hour student teaching experience. Freed-Hardeman is a Christian University and requires all enrolled education students to take a Bible course as part of their studies in order to form a foundation of ethical behavior in the classroom. Other course titles include Diagnosis and Remediation of Reading Difficulties, Managing Special Needs Children, Assessment in Special Education, and Technology and the Special Education Teacher.
#35 – Baker University
Master of Science in Special Education
Baldwin City, Kansas
Tuition: $9,870
The Master of Science degree program in Special Education from Baker University is a 36 credit hour program with four licensure programs: K-6, K-6 with 5-8, 6-12, and K-12. Enrolled students can take one class at a time one night per week for seven weeks and still complete the program in less than two years. Classes are taught by experienced special education teachers who apply theory to real-world scenarios, giving students a comprehensive and realistic view of working with exceptional children. The program is available at the Overland Park, Topeka, and Wichita campus locations.
#34 – Indiana Wesleyan University
Master of Education in Special Education
Marion, Indiana
Tuition: $9,860
The Master of Education in Special Education from Indiana Wesleyan University can be completed online or via a traditional classroom format. This 33-credit hour program is aligned with the standards of the Council of Exceptional Children and is open to special education teachers who are currently teaching and wish to expand their knowledge in the field. Courses focus on the methods and materials best suited for use with students with mild to moderate disabilities. Out-of-state applicants should familiarize themselves with their state’s certification requirements prior to applying.
#33 – Mount Saint Mary’s University
Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary/Special Education
Emmitsburg, Maryland
Tuition: $9,756
Mount Saint Mary’s University offers a Master of Arts in Teaching degree that leads to certification in elementary education (grades 1-6) and generic special education (grades 1-8). Applicants should already hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. The number of credits required to complete the program will be determined by the program director on a case by case basis. Specific course titles include Students with Special Needs and Diverse Learning Styles, Reading Assessment and Intervention, and Management for Inclusive Settings. Some classes may require field experience.
#32 – Concordia University, Nebraska
Master of Education in Special Education
Seward, Nebraska
Tuition: $9,715
Concordia University, Nebraska offers a NCATE- accredited Master of Education in Special Education degree program in Inclusive Practices. The coursework for this program focuses on inclusive instructional methods, behavior management and assessment techniques, and students will be required to complete an 80-hour practicum to demonstrate successful application of the concepts learned. Upon completion of this 36 credit hour program, students will have the option to take additional classes to meet Nebraska’s requirements for the following endorsements: K-6 Subject Endorsement, 7-12 Subject Endorsement, or K-12 Field Endorsement.
#31 – Siena Heights University
Master of Arts in Special Education
Adrian, Michigan
Tuition: $9,630
Siena Heights University offers two degree programs in the area of special education: the Master of Arts in Special Education, Learning Disabilities (LD) and the Master of Arts in Special Education, Cognitive Impairment (CI). The Learning Disabilities track is a 43-44 credit hour program for certified Michigan teachers, which leads to a Learning Disabilities endorsement. The 41-44 credit hour Cognitive Impairment track includes courses such as Methods and Strategies for Teaching Individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment, Nature and Needs of Individuals with Cognitive Impairment, and Transition and Career Education for Individuals with Cognitive Impairment.
#30 – Greensboro College
Master of Education in Special Education
Greensboro, North Carolina
Tuition: $9,600
Greensboro College offers a Master of Education in Special Education degree program approved by both the North Carolina State Board of Education and the Department of Public Instruction. Many graduates of this program have gone on to be “Teachers of the Year” in their schools, districts, and states and have obtained national board certification. The program is open to teachers who already hold a valid teaching license and is available in two different concentration areas: Adapted Curriculum and General Curriculum.
#29 – National Louis University
Master of Education in Special Education
Chicago, Illinois
Tuition: $9,378
The Masters of Education in Special Education from National Louis University is available for eligible candidates who already possess a teaching certificate. Completion of the program will lead to an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) as well as a LBS1 (pre-K to age 21) endorsement. Most of the Golden Apple Award Winners in the state have graduated from this prestigious and affordable university. The school also offers a Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education for non-certified applicants who wish to teach students with disabilities.
#28 – Liberty University
Master of Education
Lynchburg, Virginia
Tuition: $9,360
The Master of Education—Teaching and Learning program with a cognate in Special Education from Liberty University is an online degree program for those wishing to teach students with disabilities in a K-12 Christian, public, or private setting. Specific class titles are taught in a virtual classroom and include Advanced Educational Psychology, Foundations of Exceptionality, Educational Assessment for Special Needs, Behavior Management, Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder & Assessment, Communication, Language & Sensory Aspects for Autism, and Current Issues in Education. This program does not lead to licensure.
#27 – Marywood University
Master of Science in Special Education
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Tuition: $9,300
The Master of Science in Special Education from Marywood University is a 36 semester hour program designed for certified teachers who wish to move into the special education space. Upon completion of this program, graduates will be eligible for a PK-8 special education certification. Course titles include Special Education Law and Research, Curriculum Adaptations for the Special Needs Learner, Behavior Management Approaches, Reading Disabilities and Diagnosis, and Career Education for Students with Disabilities. A practicum is also required for graduation.
#26 – Drake University
Master of Science in Special Education
Des Moines, Iowa
Tuition: $9,100
The Master of Science in Special Education program from Drake University is open to practicing teachers looking to expand their knowledge in the field of special education. The hands-on curriculum promotes collaboration and interaction amongst students and encourages teachers to apply their learning in their own classrooms. The Drake School of Education also holds the Harley & Zoe Rummell Memorial Scholarship in order to assist deserving applicants. In addition, special education is a shortage area in the state of Iowa, meaning students could qualify for loan forgiveness through state and federal programs.
#25 – Providence College
Master of Education in Special Education
Providence, Rhode Island
Tuition: $8,910
The Master of Education degree program in Special Education from Providence College is designed for certified educators who would like to move into special education. The one-year program starts in May of each year and must be completed within a 5-year timeframe. In order to graduate, students must pass the Special Education Core Knowledge and Mild to Moderate Applications test and then fulfill the student teaching requirement. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be eligible for certification in special education at the elementary and secondary levels.
#24 – MidAmerica Nazarene University
Master’s in Adaptive Special Education
Olathe, Kansas
Tuition: $8,565
MidAmerica University offers a high-tech degree leading to a Master’s in Adaptive Special Education that meets both the Council for Exceptional Children Professional Standards and the Kansas State Department of Education Adaptive Special Education Standards. Enrolled students will enjoy effective, flexible instruction including real-time webcasts, social networking, virtual collaboration, podcasts, vodcasts, and more. The program can be completed in just 18 months, allowing teachers to get on with the business of helping provide the latest research based assistance to children with disabilities.
#23 – Southeastern University
Master of Education in ESE
Lakeland, Florida
Tuition: $8,550
The Masters of Education in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) from Southeast University is offered via a hybrid format, with half of the coursework delivered online and half through traditional on-campus instruction. Online classes consist of eight-week classes while face-to-face classes are held during the summer to accommodate practicing teachers’ schedules. The program can be completed in as little as six semesters and is a great foundation for future doctoral studies. Through the program, students will complete the Race to the Top requirements for the autism endorsement.
#22 – Eastern Nazarene College
Master of Education
Quincy, Massachusetts
Tuition: $8,550
Eastern Nazarene College offers a Master of Education with an emphasis in Moderate Disabilities. The 24-month program is designed for applicants who possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue a Massachusetts state teaching certificate. Instruction is delivered through a traditional class format at the Wollaston Campus in Quincy, Massachusetts. Students will attend late afternoon and evening classes to accommodate professional working schedules. Graduates will be required to complete a 12-13 week full-time practicum and submit a cumulative teaching portfolio that reflects their learning over the course of the program.
#21 – Concordia University, St. Paul
Master of Arts in Education
St. Paul, Minnesota
Tuition: $8,550
Concordia University, St. Paul offers three different degree paths for students who wish to obtain a license in special education: Master of Arts with Autism Spectrum Disorder Licensure, Master of Arts with Emotional/Behavioral Disorders Licensure, and Master of Arts with Specific Learning Disabilities Licensure. Students enrolled in these programs will take one 3-credit hour class every seven to eight weeks. Although no face-to-face meetings are required, students must participate in a one-hour video teleconference each week. Specific course titles include Education of Exceptional Learners, Educational Research and Applications, and Collaborative Teaching in Inclusive settings.
#20 – Muskingum University
Master of Arts in Education, Master of Arts in Teaching
New Concord, Ohio
Tuition: $8,460
Muskingum University offers several options for those who wish to begin or enhance their careers in special education. For those who have an undergraduate degree but do not currently hold a teaching license, there is the Master of Arts in Teaching, with two degree tracks: Intervention Specialist: Mild to Moderate and Intervention Specialist: Moderate to Intensive. These same tracks are available for the Master of Arts in Education degree program, which is designed for professionals who are already certified to teach.
#19 – Saint Leo University
Master of Education
Saint Leo, Florida
Tuition: $8,442
Saint Leo’s University offers a Master of Education degree program with an Exceptional Student Education Concentration. The school is not only an affordable option, but also an award-winning one. Saint Leo’s Education department was recognized as a national finalist for the Distinguished Program in Teacher Education. Class topics include curriculum development theory, testing and measurement theory, instructional design for ESE, applied linguistics and cross-cultural communication, and behavior management. Flexible schedules are available for working professionals, including online and traditional, blended classes.
#18 – Campbellsville University
Master of Arts in Special Education- Teacher Leader
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Tuition: $8,370
The Master of Arts degree in Special Education from Campbellsville University is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed within two years. Students will receive instruction in special education theory and practice from experienced K-12 educators who have worked extensively with children with a range of disabilities. Specialized course titles include Effective Management Skills for Today’s Educators, Supervision of Instruction, Advanced Assessment and Instructional Strategies for Diverse Learners, and Empowerment for Teacher Leadership. Students will also explore modern trends in the field with a special focus on how technology impacts special education.
#17 – Lynchburg College
Master of Education in Special Education
Lynchburg, Virginia
Tuition: $8,280
Lynchburg College offers a comprehensive 36-hour degree program in special education that helps teachers develop the skills they need to help young people with a range of disabilities. The school gives students the option to choose from five different areas of study: General Special Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Special Education for Significant Disabilities, and Applied Behavior Analysis. Online learning options are available for those enrolled in the Early Childhood Special Education. Certification programs are also available.
#16 – Piedmont College
Master of Arts in Teaching
Athens, Georgia
Tuition: $8,226
Piedmont College offers a Master of Arts in Teaching degree in Special Education. The 42-43 semester hour program combines theory, research, and field experience to help aspiring special education teachers develop the skills they need to properly aid students with mild to severe disabilities. Available from the Athens campus only, the program includes a semester long teaching experience and is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Completion of the degree program leads to recommendation for Georgia certification in Special Education- General Curriculum (P-12).
#15 – McDaniel College
Master of Science in Special Education
Westminster, Maryland
Tuition: $8,100
The Master of Science degree program in Special Education from McDaniel College is a 36 credit hour degree program that emphasizes a strength based approach to aiding students with disabilities as well as the professional standards set forth by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). The degree program is available to all eligible students, including those not seeking official certification. These students may choose to write a thesis instead of submitting the required capstone portfolio for certification. This program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
#14 – Averett University
Master of Education in Special Education
Danville, Virginia
Tuition: $8,100
The Master of Education degree program in Special Education from Averett University is offered online through the Division of Graduate and Professional Studies. The curriculum is delivered through an accelerated format and can be completed in as little as 20 months. Course topics include classroom and behavior management, integrating teaching and technology for disabled students, and developing support teams for special needs learners. Small class sizes and experienced K-12 instructors ensure that students receive the quality, comprehensive education they need to be successful teaching children of varying disabilities.
#13 – Carson-Newman University
Master of Education
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Tuition: $7,938
The Master of Education degree program with an emphasis in Special Education from Carson-Newman University is offered online as well as in an off-campus cohort program. This 36 credit hour program consists of a 15-hour required core, a 15-hour special education emphasis, and a 6-hour Master’s thesis. Specialized courses include Techniques for Inclusion, Diagnosis and Correction of Reading, Assessment/Diagnosis of Children with Exceptionalities, Managing Challenging Behaviors, and Evaluation for Continuous Improvement. This accelerated program can be completed within one calendar year.
#12 – Wilmington University
Master of Education
New Castle, Delaware
Tuition: $7,812
The Master of Education degree program with a concentration in Special Education offered through Wilmington University is delivered via traditional classroom instruction and is available in the following locations: New Castle, Dover, and Georgetown. Specific course titles include Education of Diverse and Exceptional Children in the Elementary School Setting, Applied Behavior Analysis, Severe Disabilities, and Diagnosis/Assessment of Reading Difficulties among others. Students must attend a program planning conference prior to being admitted into the program. A prerequisite course is also required.
#11 – Greenville College
Master of Arts in Special Education
Greenville, Illinois
Tuition: $7,524
The Master of Arts degree program in Special Education offered by Greenville College is a combination of online foundational courses that students can complete throughout the school year and hybrid capstone courses offered during the summer. This flexible curriculum, which includes a field experience, can be completed in less than eighteen months and results in the Learning Behavior Specialist endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average to remain in the program.
#10 – Salem College
Masters in Education
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Tuition: $6,984
Salem College offers a Master’s in Education degree program in Special Education designed to help improve the instruction of practicing teachers with prior certification and to enhance their professional leadership skills. The flexible curriculum offers evening and summer courses to accommodate teachers’ busy schedules and is comprised of two parts: Advanced Licensure Common Core and special education classes. The latter component includes specialty courses such as 21st Century Issues for Exceptional Children, Understanding Global Exceptionalities, and Ethics and Legalities in Education.
#9 – Graceland University
Master of Education in Special Education
Lamoni, Iowa
Tuition: $6,965
Graceland University offers a 30-hour graduate degree program in Special Education for current K-12 educators as well as other professionals who work with students with disabilities. This program specifically addresses Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and includes instruction in behavior management, transitional programming, and assistive technology. The degree, which is aligned with national standards, is designed to be completed in two years. It can be completed online and offers many opportunities to collaborate with other students and apply theory to the classroom.
#8 – Mount Mercy University
Masters of Arts in Education
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Tuition: $6,600
The Masters of Arts degree program in Education with an emphasis in Special Education from Mount Mercy University offers students four specialty areas of study to choose from: Instructional Strategist I; K-8 endorsement, Instructional Strategist I, 5-12 endorsement; Instructional Strategist II, K-12 endorsement; and Special Education — no endorsement. Despite which pathway they choose, however, all students must complete the 13-hour Master’s Program Core. Other specialty courses include Special Education Law, Assessment in Special Education, Trends and Strategies in Autism, Behavior Intervention, and Diagnostic Reading.
#7 – Western Governor’s University
Masters of Science in Special Education
Salt Lake City, Utah
Tuition: $6,500
Western Governor’s University’s teaching degree programs are the first exclusively online programs that lead to licensure to be accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCAT). The Masters of Science degree program in Special Education is designed for practicing, certified teachers who have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Students are expected to spend at least 15 hours per week on their studies, and a capstone project is required. This project gives students the opportunity to showcase their learning by proposing a solution to a real-world instructional problem.
#6 – Brigham Young University
Masters of Science in Special Education
Provo, Utah
Tuition: $6,310
The Masters of Science degree in Special Education from Brigham Young University is focused around the evidence-based multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS), which consists of response to intervention (RtI) and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). The curriculum is designed to accommodate the schedules of working educators, meaning Fall and Winter classes are held during the evening. Day classes are scheduled to work around the school calendar during the Spring and Summer semesters. Preference is given to applicants with prior teaching experience and a related undergraduate degree.
#5 – Winthrop University
Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education Intervention
Rock Hill, South Carolina
Tuition: $19,230
Winthrop University might not be a private for-profit, but it’s definitely earned itself a spot among the best value programs. That’s why we gladly made an exception to the rule so we could present our readers with what we think is one of the best options out there in master’s level special education teacher training. The Master of Education in Special Education Intervention also definitely earns its name – that unique focus on effective interventions will prepare you to develop and implement Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) programs, Response to Intervention (RTI) programs, and a whole lot more, setting you apart as a leader in any school system you might work for.
#4 – Georgetown College
Master of Education
Georgetown, Kentucky
Tuition: $5,520
Georgetown College offers Masters of Education degree programs in three different special education certifications: Learning Behavior Disorders, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, and Combined Learning and Behavior Disorders and Moderate to Severe Disabilities. Each of these programs can be completed in up to eighteen months, and classes can be attended on campus or online. Georgetown College’s special education programs have recently been ranked among the Best Online Graduate Education Programs by U.S. News & World Report. The school will consider transfer credits, and there is no thesis required for graduation.
#3 – University of the Cumberlands
Master of Arts in Teaching
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Tuition: $5,238
The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching degree program with a Special Education track for aspiring teachers who wish to help those children who struggle the most. The program can be completed entirely online with the exception of the required field experience, which can be completed at a local school of the student’s choosing. Completion of the degree program will provide Kentucky state licensure through the Educational Professional Standards Board, though certificate reciprocity is available from many other states as well.
#2 – Morningside College
Master of Arts in Teaching: Special Education
Sioux City, Iowa
Tuition: $4,800
Morningside College offers a Master of Arts degree program that leads to one of two special education endorsements. The program consists of two separate sections: a 9-hour Professional Foundations Core and a 28-hour Instructional Strategist I or Instructional Strategist II Special Education Endorsement. The curriculum, which is designed for elementary teachers and secondary teachers combines research in special education, best practices, reflective thinking, and technology. All courses leading toward an endorsement must be graduate level courses, and the program must be completed within a seven-year time frame.
#1 – Regent University
Master of Education in K-12 Special Education
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Tuition: $650
The Master of Education in K-12 Special Education degree program from Regents University is an extremely affordable, 42 credit hour program approved by the Virginia Department of Education. The curriculum, which is designed for students with or without prior teacher certification, addresses such issues as characteristics of students with disabilities, legal and ethical aspects of special education, behavior management, social skills training, instructional methods, assessment, language acquisition, and more. The program consists of eight week classes, which students can take entirely online or via a hybrid format with online components.
Related Reading:
- What is the Employment Outlook for Careers in Special Education?
- 5 Examples of Assistive Technology in the Classroom
- What is Applied Behavioral Analysis?
- What is the NCATE?
- What is the Praxis Test?
