Inside Top Online Master’s Programs in Special Education

Comparing Special Education Master’s Online Programs

Below are three standout CAEP-accredited, U.S.-based online MEd programs in Special Education. Each provides a flexible format for working professionals and a curriculum grounded in evidence-based practices. We’ve summarized key features (from coursework and support resources to cost and outcomes) to help you weigh your options.

Paying for Your Master’s in Special Education

How much will a Special Ed MEd cost? The answer depends on the specific program, but there are some general cost considerations to keep in mind.

Most online MEd programs charge tuition on a per-credit basis, so your tuition total cost will be the per-credit rate multiplied by the total number of credits. Some public schools charge a higher tuition rate to out-of-state residents, while others charge a flat (in-state) rate to all students regardless of residency status. Private schools, on the other hand, almost always charge a single rate to all of their online students. Along with tuition, most students will pay for additional program fees, books and study materials, a quality laptop computer, and internet access.

Qualifying students will be able to mitigate their total degree bill by obtaining any of a number of financial aid resources for online master’s programs. Common financial aid types include scholarships, grants, and (for active military service members and veterans) VA benefits. Also often available to education master’s students are teacher tuition discounts and employer tuition assistance opportunities.

Below is a quick comparison of current tuition costs of the three SPED master’s programs profiled above:

Frequently-Asked Questions by Prospective Special Education MEd Students

Can I work full-time while pursuing an online MEd in Special Education?

It’s very possible. In fact, most online SPED master’s programs are geared toward working educators. Online programs are designed for flexibility, often with asynchronous coursework that you can attend to on evenings or weekends, or any other time suiting your busy schedule. Students typically take one to two courses per term instead of three or four like full-time students.

Good time management is critical. You should expect to devote around 10 to 15 hours of study time each week per class. Overall, with good planning and support, you can successfully balance full-time work with your master’s studies.

Do I need a teaching license or experience to apply for these programs?

Not always. Many online MEd in Special Education programs accept students with no teaching experience. SPED master’s programs with licensure tracks are typically open to anyone with a bachelor’s degree and a passion for working with individuals with disabilities. Other (non-licensure) programs are geared toward current educators expanding their credentials. 

If you’re new to the field, look for programs that offer strong foundational courses and possibly a student teaching or practicum component to build experience. And if you are already a licensed teacher, an online MEd can help you add a special education endorsement or advance your expertise.

What’s the difference between an M.Ed. in Special Education and other similar master’s (like an M.A.T. or M.S.)?

A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Special Education is typically geared toward practicing educators or those focusing on educational practice and leadership in special ed. It often emphasizes practical skills, instructional strategies, and sometimes includes research in education.

A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Special Education, by contrast, is usually designed to provide initial teacher certification, making it an attractive choice for career changers seeking to become licensed special ed teachers.

A Master of Science in Special Education is quite similar to an MEd in content and purpose, though an M.S. might lean slightly more on research.

Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Special Education?

An essential factor in choosing any online master’s program is accreditation. Proper accreditation assures you that your program has been found to meet important standards of academic quality. You’ll want to confirm that the college or university offering your SPED degree is institutionally accredited from one of a number of regional or national accreditors recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Additionally, look for specialized (programmatic) accreditation of the program itself. The primary accreditor of special education master’s programs in the U.S. is the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP).

Will an online degree be respected, and can it lead to teacher licensure or certification?

A properly accredited online MEd will be just as respected as one earned in a traditional campus-based program. Employers increasingly recognize that online programs from reputable universities meet the same standards as on-campus programs.

Regarding teacher licensure, an online MEd can lead to licensure if it’s designed to do so. And some online MEd programs include a student teaching component to prepare students for initial special ed certification.

Career Outlook for MEd in Special Education Grads

Earning your MEd in Special Education can unlock a range of rewarding career paths. Many graduates continue as special education teachers but with advanced skills to take on leadership roles (such as department lead or mentor), guiding other teachers in adapting curriculum and behavior strategies. You could also become a special education coordinator or director at the school or district level, overseeing special ed programs and compliance.

In short, by earning your MEd, you’ve gained valuable skills in designing individualized instruction and understanding educational research, which connects directly to job responsibilities like writing IEPs, training others, evaluating student progress data, and implementing new initiatives.

The table below takes a look at the salary estimates and job growth projections for five common career options for SPED master’s graduates:

10 Resources for Special Education Students & Professionals

Staying sharp and supported during your online MEd studies (and beyond) is easier with the right resources. Here are 10 great tools, sites, and communities for special education grad students and professionals:

• The Autism Helper — A blog and podcast by BCBA and special education teacher Sasha Long. The Autism Helper shares practical tips, classroom ideas, and behavior strategies designed for working with students on the autism spectrum.
• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) — The CEC offers journals, webinars, and an annual conference to keep you updated on best practices and research. Joining the CEC connects you with a network of educators and access to resources on everything from instructional strategies to policy updates.
• Intervention Central — From behavior charts to curriculum-based measurement probes, this site helps you design and implement interventions for struggling students. It’s great for grad students doing assignment case studies and teachers looking to try new strategies backed by RTI/MTSS frameworks.
• IRIS Center — Free online resource funded by the U.S. Department of Education with interactive modules and case studies on tons of special ed topics (behavior management, autism, co-teaching, etc.). These short modules are perfect for supplementing your learning with real-world scenarios and evidence-based practices.
• National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) — A professional organization specifically for special ed teachers. NASET provides members with practical resources like a lesson plan bank, assessment tools, legal updates, and professional development courses.
• National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCII) — An official resource center dedicated to helping teachers address the needs of students who require intensive intervention. NCII provides evidence-based academic and behavior intervention tools, progress monitoring charts, and implementation guides.
• Noodle Nook — Noodle Nook focuses on strategies for students with significant disabilities (moderate to severe/profound). It offers a podcast, blog, and downloadable resources on topics like managing paraprofessionals, teaching life skills, and using assistive technology.
• SpedPrep Academy Podcast — A podcast (and website) geared toward new special education teachers and those seeking mentorship. Host Jennifer Hofferber, an experienced SPED administrator, shares episodes on organizing IEP paperwork, collaborating with gen ed teachers, behavior management, and more.
• Understood — A popular online resource focused on learning and attention issues like dyslexia and ADHD. Understood translates complex information into parent and teacher-friendly articles, videos, and tip sheets.
• Wrightslaw — A useful resource on special education law and advocacy. Wrightslaw offers articles and guides about IDEA, Section 504, IEP rights, and more.

Top-Rated Online SPED Programs