Updated December 2024
Earning an online Master’s in Special Education is a great way for special education professionals to enhance their employment marketability through advanced skills and credentials. Online special education programs allow working professionals to earn an advanced degree while continuing to work and apply their knowledge and skills. Selecting an affordable online master’s in special education is an important decision that students need to consider carefully. Many schools offer solid, accredited programs with credentials and certifications that give graduates the opportunity for higher pay, greater employment marketability and higher job satisfaction.
Methodology
We sought to create a ranking for the most affordable online master’s in special education. Schools for this list were selected based on an initial search for schools offering a master’s degree in special education as listed on College Navigator. We narrowed the list down to accredited schools offering online master’s degrees in Special Education. Those schools were sorted on their average graduate in-state tuition as indicated on College Navigator. Below is our listing of the most affordable online Master’s in Special Education programs.
25. Western Kentucky University-Bowling Green, Kentucky
Master of Arts/Teacher Leader in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $10,860 in state and $15,260 out of state
Western Kentucky University offers a master’s in special education online with two program tracks including Moderate to Severe Disabilities and Learning and Behavior Disorders. The program is designed to encourage collaboration and peer interaction through coursework and experiences. Students can begin the program at the start of the fall, spring, or summer semester. The program is 37 credit hours and can be completed in about two years.
24. University of Alaska-Anchorage, Alaska
Master of Education in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $9,306 in state and $19,008 out of state
The University of Alaska at Anchorage offers a Master of Education in Special Education that can be completed in 36 credit hours of coursework. Students are able to take coursework that includes autism and special education law. An exam is required to earn the degree This holistic program focuses on theory, research and implementation of strategies in special education.
23. Florida International University-Miami, Florida
Master of Science in Special Education-Autism Endorsement
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $8,912 in state and $21,393 out of state
An online master’s in special education from Florida International University is ideal for students looking to advance their special education career working with individuals on the autism spectrum. The program learning to work with both students and families. The program is offered entirely online and can be completed in just 12 months. Students are able to start in either the fall or the summer. Students who successfully complete the program will receive an Autism Endorsement.
22. University of Alaska Southeast-Juneau, Alaska
Special Education, M.Ed.
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $8,883 in state and $18,144 out of state
The University of Alaska Southeast offers a unique online master’s in special education with a focus on children and youth with disabilities and Alaska’s unique rural population. The flexible online format is ideal for those living or working in remote communities in Alaska. This 33 credit hour program includes a practicum experience and final research project prior to graduation.
21. Indiana University-Bloomington, Indiana
Master of Science in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $8,442 in state and $26,812 out of state
Indiana University offers a special education master’s online that is 36 credit hours and consists of 12 courses. Most students are able to complete the program in about two years. The program follows a cohort format as students work together and collaborate throughout the program. This program is hands-on and allows for field based experiences with a mentor teacher to practice and demonstrate skills. Students can complete either a capstone project or thesis in their final semester.
20. Kentucky State University-Frankfort, Kentucky
Online Masters of Arts in Special Education with Certification (LBD, P-12)
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $7,524 in state and $11,322 out of state
Kentucky State University offers an online master’s in special education with the intent of leading to certification in the area of Learning and Behavior Disorders. The program can be completed in 36-45 credit hours depending on the student’s previous education experience. Students receive around-the-clock support to be successful in this accelerated program. The program includes a 200 hour field experience and all students complete a practicum or student teaching experience.
19. Indiana State University-Terre Haute, Indiana
Master of Science in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $6,984 in state and $13,716 out of state
Indiana State University offers an NCATE accredited online master’s in special education. The 39 credit hour program can be completed in just over one year of full time study. This program is ideal for both educators and social service professionals. For students who do not possess a teaching license but would like one in mild interventions, ISU offers an additional 30 credit hour coursework sequence to meet this need.
18. Minot State University-Minot, North Dakota
Master of Science in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $6,699
Minot State University offers a special education master’s online with five different concentration options to allow students to focus on their area of interest. Students can select from Developmental Disabilities/Autism Spectrum Disorder (43-45 credit hours), Deaf or Hard of Hearing (50-52 credit hours), Specific Learning Disabilities (38-42 credit hours), Early Childhood Special Education (43-45 credit hours) or Special Education Strategist (42-44 credit hours). Students are required to complete a field experience or practicum to practice and demonstrate their skills. The curriculum for this program follows the standards set by the Council for Exceptional Children.
17. Western Governors University-Salt Lake City, Utah
Master of Science Special Education (K-12)
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $6,500
Western Governors University offers a master’s in special education online program that can be completed in two to two-and-a-half years of study. Western Governors University is nationally recognized by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and was the first online university to receive NCATE accreditation. The program is for licensed teachers with a bachelor’s degree in an area other than special education. The program can be completed by taking the equivalent of 31 credit hours of coursework. Students must submit a Teacher Work Sample in their final semester of study to meet graduation requirements.
16. University of Louisiana at Monroe-Monroe, Louisiana
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Secondary Education & Special Education Mild/Mod, Gr 6-12
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Elementary Education & Special Education Mild/Mod, Gr 1-5
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $6,106 in state and $18,206 out of state
The University of Louisiana at Monroe offers two different online master’s in special education. Students who want to work with elementary special education students can earn their MAT in Elementary Education and Special Education while students interested in working with older children can earn their MAT in Secondary Education and Special Education. The program is available for students with a bachelor’s degree in an area outside of special education. They can obtain their Louisiana Teacher Certification through the program. Courses are offered in eight week sessions and most students can complete the program in 14-24 months.
15. Pittsburgh State University-Pittsburg, Kansas
Master of Science in Special Education Teaching
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,894 in state and $15,654 out of state
Pittsburg State University offers an online master’s degree in Special Education thesis for students who already hold a valid teaching certification. Students will earn an endorsement in their elected emphasis which includes High Incidence/Low Incidence Special Education K-6, and 6-12. Students can elect to complete a thesis program option or opt to complete a non-thesis option. This program is offered in a cohort format where students move through the program together with coursework completed in a specified order.
14. Northwestern State University of Louisiana-Natchitoches, Louisiana
Master of Education in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,738 in state and $16,526 out of state
Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers a flexible special education master’s online program designed for licensed teachings who want to earn their M.Ed. degree and additional certification. The program offers four different concentration areas including Gifted Education, Early Intervention, Elementary (grades 1-5) Mild/Moderate, and Middle School (grades 4-8) and Secondary (grades 6-12) Mild/Moderate Special Education. Students complete 12 credit hours in foundational coursework and 21 credit hours in their area of concentration.
13. Emporia State University-Emporia, Kansas
M.S. in Special Education With a Concentration in Either Adaptive or Gifted, Talented, and Creative
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,640 in state and $17,554 out of state
Emporia State University offers two different online special educational programs that are 36 credit hours and meet the endorsement standards for grades K-6 and grades 6-12. The online master’s in special educational with an Adaptive Concentration offers coursework related to students with mild to moderate disabilities to help them be successful in the classroom. The Gifted, Talented, and Creative Concentration includes coursework related to the education of gifted and exceptional learners. Both programs can be completed in about two years.
12. Texas A&M University-College Station, Texas
Master of Science in Special Education
Master of Education in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,598 in state and $15,125 out of state
Texas A&M University at College Station offers both M.Ed. and M.S. online special education programs. Both programs are 36 credit hours and take about two years to complete. Texas A&M University has been ranked a “best-value” institution by U.S. News and World Report. Instructors are experienced and nationally recognized in areas of special education including autism, literacy, behavior support, and research. Coursework covers the latest research and theory in special education.
11. University of Houston-Victoria, Victoria, Texas
Master of Education-Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,574 in state and $12,594 out of state
The online master’s in special education from the University of Houston-Victoria is a 30 credit hour program with flexibility to appeal to the working professional. Coursework covers areas such as applied behavior analysis, research, and collaboration strategies. Throughout the program, students learn the role and importance of special education law. Students are required to pass a comprehensive exam in their final semester. With skills in assessment, behavioral intervention, and programming, graduates are very marketable in the field.
10. University of North Texas-Denton, Texas
Master of Science in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Gifted & Talented Education
Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Autism Intervention
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,450 in state and $12,470 out of state
The University of North Texas offers two master’s in special education online options for students interested in working with the Gifted and Talented or students on the autism spectrum. The Gifted and Talented concentration program allows students to earn a gifted and talented certification while they are working toward their master’s degree. The program is 36 credit hours and includes a capstone project. Courses are offered in three week, five week, or eight week formats and the degree can be completed in just one year. The Autism Intervention concentration is accredited by the CAEP and is designed for educators, those wanting to be autism specialists, or case managers and others in social service organizations. This 36 credit hour program can also be completed in 12 months.
9. Columbus State University-Columbus, Georgia
Special Education – General Curriculum: Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,364 in state and $13,608 out of state
Columbus State University offers a special education master’s online for teachers holding a current T-4 teaching certificate. Graduates of the program can update their certification to a T-5 level. This 36 credit hour program is accredited by NCATE and can be completed in about two years. Students complete a practicum during the program to allow them to practice and demonstrate their skills. Coursework covers areas such as behavior management, assessment, and assistive technology. Before graduation, students must pass a comprehensive examination.
8. Montana State University-Billings, Montana
Master of Science: Special Education Advanced Studies
Master of Science: Special Education Generalist Option
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $5,276 in state and $17,186 out of state
Montana State University offers two different master’s in special education online degree options through the NCATE accredited College of Education. The Special Education Advanced Studies option is a 33 credit hour program with a six credit hour professional core and 18 credit hours in professional specialization. Students have the option to complete a nine credit hour thesis option or professional practice coursework. The Generalist Option is a 39 credit hour program with a student teaching component designed for students with a teaching degree outside the area of special education. Both degree options prepare students for a career in special education or to begin doctoral studies.
7. University of Arkansas at Monticello-Monticello, Arkansas
Master of Education, Special Education Track
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,590 in state and $9,000 out of state
The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers an NCATE accredited online master’s in special education. Students earn their M.Ed. degree with a concentration in special education. The program is tailored to the needs of the licensed teacher, requiring students to take 12 hours of Advanced Professional Foundations courses in addition to courses related to special education. Coursework areas include research and assessment, high need exceptionalities, and collaboration and consultation.
6. Arkansas State University-Jonesboro, Arkansas
Master of Science in Education (MSE) for Special Education – Instructional Specialist K-12
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,572 in state and $9,144 out of state
Arkansas State University offers an online master’s in special education for students who want to be Instructional Specialists for grades K through 12. This NCATE accredited online master’s in special education is a 36 credit hour program that can be completed in just 16 months of study. Courses last seven weeks and cover areas such as educational procedures, special education law, and characteristics of students with disabilities.
5. University of Nebraska at Omaha-Omaha, Nebraska
Master of Science in Special Education with a concentration in Behavior Intervention Specialist
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,505 in state and $12,644 out of state
The Master’s in Special Education online from the University of Nebraska at Omaha includes a concentration in Behavior Intervention. This unique program meets the needs of pre-k through 6th grade or 7th through 12th grade endorsement requirements. The program is 36 credit hours with or without the endorsement. Courses include classroom management, high incidence disabilities, and behavior modification. Students may complete a thesis as their final project.
4. Adams State University-Alamosa, Colorado
Master of Arts in Education-Curriculum and Instruction, Concentration in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,428 in state and $10,368 out of state
Adams State University offers a Master of Arts in Education Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Special Education. This special education master’s online is a 30 credit hour program that allows students to start in the fall, spring, or summer semester. The focus of the program is on effective planning and teaching. Students are required to take nine credit hours of electives in the special education concentration area and complete a capstone research project in their final semester.
3. West Texas A&M University-Canyon, Texas
Curriculum and Instruction Specializing in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,292 in state and $4,852 out of state
A master’s in special education online from West Texas A&M University is a 36 credit hour program for students who already hold a standard teaching certificate. Students without a special education background are welcome into the program but are required to complete 9 semester hours of special education coursework in addition to the 36 credit hour master’s program. Coursework covers areas such as assistive technology, legal issues, and remediation techniques. Prior to graduation, students are required to pass a comprehensive examination.
2. The University of Texas of the Permian Basin-Odessa, Texas
Master of Arts in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $4,029 in state and $4,869 out of state
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin offers an accredited special education master’s online that can be completed in 24 months. Courses are seven weeks long and cover areas such as educational psychology, transition programming, and current trends in special education. Students can select from six different start dates throughout the year. The program is accredited by NCATE, CEC, and SACS. The program is open to students with a variety of backgrounds and applicants do not need a teaching certificate to apply.
1. Fort Hays State University-Hays, Kansas
Master of Science in Special Education
Average Graduate Student Tuition and Fees: $3,205 in state and $9,129 out of state
Fort Hays State University offers an NCATE accredited online master’s in special education. Students may select from a concentration in either Gifted or High-Incidence Special Education. Both concentration areas take 36 credit hours to complete. Students can typically complete either program in 18-24 months. Coursework is designed to allow students the opportunity to reflect and demonstrate critical thinking skills which are essential to working in the classroom. This is our most affordable online master’s in special education.
Source: http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
