Want to make a bigger impact in students’ lives? An online Master of Education (MEd) in Special Education can help you build more inclusive classrooms while advancing your career. With over 7.5 million children receiving special education services, skilled SPED educators are in consistently high demand. Designed for busy professionals, online programs offer flexible, practical training grounded in evidence-based practice. Use this guide to explore top programs, key features, and how to take your next step as a special education leader.
Author: Michael Hoffman, JD, MA
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
Read more - Resources
More resources that dive deeper into specific degree programs, student success, and more…
Read more - Top Schools
A list of the best schools currently offering the best online and hybrid master’s programs in the state…
Read more
Comparing Special Education Master’s Online Programs
Below are three standout, CAEP-accredited, U.S.-based online MEd programs in Special Education. Each offers a flexible format for working professionals and a curriculum rooted in evidence-based instructional strategies. We’ve summarized coursework, format, support resources, cost, and outcomes to help you compare options.
University of Florida — Online MEd in Special Education
The University of Florida’s online MEd in Special Education is well known for its emphasis on inclusive teaching and applied practice.
The 36-credit curriculum covers foundational special education theory, assessment and intervention strategies, and behavior management. Students also complete coursework in one of four specialization tracks — Academic, Behavior, Dyslexia, or Disabilities in Society — to deepen expertise in a focused area of SPED.
Courses are 100% online with no campus visits required, making the program especially appealing to working educators. UF’s online platform supports interactive learning through pre-recorded lectures, discussion-based collaboration, and faculty engagement. Students have access to robust resources, including virtual library services, technical support, and faculty mentoring.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: Fully online (asynchronous)
Cost: $549 per credit (in-state) | $688 per credit (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (any major)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
- Official transcripts
- Current resume or CV
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
University of Kansas — Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Special Education (High Incidence Disabilities)
The University of Kansas online MSE in Special Education with an emphasis on High Incidence Disabilities focuses on evidence-based strategies for teaching students with learning disabilities and mild to moderate needs.
Coursework includes special education history and law, instructional design for inclusive classrooms, behavior support, and collaboration with families. The program also includes two in-person practicum experiences, arranged locally, allowing students to apply theory to real-world practice. KU offers Teacher, Non-Teacher, and Licensure Endorsement Only tracks, providing flexibility based on background and career goals.
Students benefit from KU’s nationally recognized faculty as well as access to online advising, learning tools, and career resources.
Duration: 2 years
Mode: Online coursework with in-person practicums
Cost: $595 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (education or related field preferred)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 undergraduate credits
- Letter of introduction (addressing SPED interest and licensure status)
- Current resume or CV
- Two professional references
Arizona State University — MEd in Special Education (Non-Certification Track)
Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College offers an online MEd in Special Education (non-certification) designed for currently licensed teachers who support K–12 students with mild to moderate disabilities.
The flexible online format uses a 15-week course schedule, and many students complete the program in four semesters (about 1.5 years), though pacing can be adjusted. Coursework emphasizes assessment, inclusive instructional strategies, applied behavior analysis, and collaboration with families and multidisciplinary teams.
A strong focus is placed on connecting research to practice. Students complete an applied action research project, learning how to design interventions, collect data, and evaluate effectiveness. Graduates often use the degree to deepen classroom practice, move into specialist roles, or pursue doctoral study.
Duration: 1.5 – 2 years (self-paced)
Mode: Online (primarily asynchronous with some scheduled assignments)
Cost: $733 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 undergraduate credits
- Official transcripts
- Professional resume
- Personal statement
- 1+ letters of recommendation
Paying for Your Master’s in Special Education
How much will an online MEd in Special Education cost? It depends on the program, but there are common cost factors to consider.
Most programs charge per-credit tuition, meaning total cost equals the credit rate multiplied by required credits. Public universities may charge higher rates for out-of-state students, while others offer flat online tuition regardless of residency. Private institutions typically use a single rate for all online students.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for:
- Program or technology fees
- Books and instructional materials
- A reliable laptop and internet access
Many students reduce costs through financial aid, including scholarships, grants, federal loans, VA benefits, and employer or district tuition assistance. Some universities also offer teacher-specific tuition discounts.
| University | Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | 36 | $549 | $19,764 |
| University of Kansas | 27-33 | $595 | $16,065 – $19,635 |
| Arizona State University | 31 | $733 | $22,723 |
Frequently-Asked Questions from Prospective Special Education MEd Students
Can I work full-time while pursuing an online MEd in Special Education?
Yes, most students do.
Online SPED programs are built for working professionals and typically offer asynchronous coursework, allowing you to study evenings or weekends. Most students take one to two courses per term, rather than a full-time load.
You should plan for 10–15 hours per week per course. With realistic scheduling and strong time management, many students successfully balance full-time employment with graduate study.
Do I need a teaching license or experience to apply for these programs?
Not always.
Some MEd programs accept students without prior teaching experience, particularly licensure-track programs designed for career changers. Other programs, especially non-licensure tracks, are intended for currently licensed educators expanding their expertise.
If you’re new to the field, look for programs with strong foundational coursework and practicum experiences. If you’re already licensed, an MEd can help you add a special education endorsement or advance professionally.
What’s the difference between an M.Ed. in Special Education and other similar master’s (like an M.A.T. or M.S.)?
The focus differs by degree type.
An MEd in Special Education typically emphasizes professional practice, instructional strategies, and leadership. It’s often geared toward practicing educators.
An MAT in Special Education usually focuses on initial teacher licensure, making it a strong option for career changers. An MS in Special Education is similar in scope to an MEd but may place slightly more emphasis on research. Program structure matters more than the degree title, so always review outcomes carefully.
Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Special Education?
Accreditation ensures quality and recognition.
You should confirm that the institution holds recognized regional or national accreditation and that the program itself has CAEP accreditation when possible. Accreditation affects employer recognition, licensure eligibility, and financial aid access.
Will an online degree be respected, and can it lead to teacher licensure or certification?
Yes, if the program is accredited and designed for licensure.
Employers generally view accredited online degrees as equivalent to on-campus programs. An online MEd can lead to licensure if the program includes required coursework and field experiences. Non-licensure programs are best for licensed educators seeking advancement rather than initial certification.
Career Outlook for Special Education MEd Graduates
An MEd in Special Education prepares graduates for a range of instructional and leadership roles. Many remain classroom teachers while stepping into positions such as department lead, mentor teacher, or instructional coach. Others move into coordination or administrative roles at the school or district level.
The advanced skills gained — such as IEP development, data analysis, intervention design, and compliance oversight — align directly with higher-responsibility positions in education and community services.
| Career | Projected Growth | Median Pay | Top 90% Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education Teacher (K–12) | 0% | $65,910 | $103,290+ |
| Instructional Coordinator | 2% | $74,720 | $115,410+ |
| School Principal (K–12) | –1% | $104,070 | $165,820+ |
| Social & Community Service Manager | 8% | $78,240 | $129,820+ |
| Rehabilitation Counselor | 2% | $46,110 | $77,200+ |
10 Resources for Special Education Students & Professionals
Staying informed and supported during your MEd (and throughout your career) is easier with the right tools. Below are 10 trusted resources frequently used by SPED graduate students and professionals:
- The Autism Helper — Practical strategies, podcasts, and classroom resources focused on autism support.
- Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) — Research journals, webinars, and professional networking.
- Intervention Central — Evidence-based intervention tools aligned with RTI/MTSS frameworks.
- IRIS Center — Free, DOE-funded interactive modules and case studies.
- National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) — Lesson plans, legal updates, and PD courses.
- National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCII) — Tools for students requiring intensive academic or behavioral support.
- Noodle Nook — Resources for moderate to severe disabilities, life skills, and assistive technology.
- SpedPrep Academy Podcast — Practical mentorship for new and early-career SPED teachers.
- Understood — Clear, accessible guidance on learning and attention differences.
- Wrightslaw — Authoritative resources on IDEA, Section 504, and special education law.