Our Best College Values award is intended to highlight programs of study that are not only of reputably high quality, but that are affordable and pay off in the long run as well. At a time when the cost of a college education is higher than it has ever been, and a degree from a reputable school may be more important than ever, the stakes have never been higher when choosing a college. This BCV award is here to help make this decision a little easier.
For our 2016 online Master’s in Education in Special Education award winners we have selected 25 regionally accredited colleges and universities with above average reputations according to U.S. News and World Report and have ranked them according to our weighted methodology that aggregates the publicly available data of U.S. News scores, tuition rates, return on investment according to Payscale.com, graduation rates, and cohort default rates to produce an overall score of 1-100. The top 25 programs that come out of this process are those that are named our award winners.
Individuals with an advanced degree in education will enjoy better salaries, more advanced positions and career opportunities, and will benefit from intellectual and professional development that will improve teaching practice. Overall, getting a Master’s degree is an excellent way to advance in your career in education and being that growth in job opportunities for teachers is expected to vary from good to excellent in the next 10 years depending on the locality, grade level and subject taught according to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates with advanced degrees will be best positioned to fill the top positions that will open. For professional educators working or interested in working with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities, or exceptionalities, a Master of Education in Special Education is a great option to increase your educational knowledge base skill set and career opportunities. This ranking will help you find a program of study that provides both a balance of reputation and affordability and the flexibility of online study for those already immersed in the demanding work of the education profession.
It should be noted that in building our ranking we take both in and out-of-state tuition into consideration. However, it is always the case that attending college in your state of residency will always be more affordable and ultimately provide a better return on investment than attending an out-of-state school. Where applicable, any program on this list offered through a public college or university that is in your state of residency should be considered among those at the top of the list.
We hope that this award proves to be a valuable resource as you move through the difficult process of selecting a school that meets all of your various needs. We wish you the best.
Note: Tuition rates listed are estimates and total tuition costs will vary from student to student and program to program based on a number of factors. Additionally, for those requiring state certification to advance into desired career positions, check state regulatory guidelines and authorizations before enrolling in a program outside of your desired state of employment to ensure that specific criteria for certifications will be met by the program of study.
#1. Purdue University
Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is the flagship school of the public Purdue University system and was founded in 1869. Purdue is perhaps best known for its engineering curriculum (particularly aviation science), but it offers over two hundred other programs and majors. With nearly 40,000 students, Purdue enrolls the second largest student body of any university in Indiana as well as the fourth largest international student population of any university in the United States. Purdue is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant institution offering over 200 undergraduate majors and over 70 master’s and doctoral degree programs. Purdue Online offers a variety of degree programs mostly at the master’s level in subjects including agriculture, engineering, aeronautics, communication, computer science, economics, education, and more. Purdue’s online graduate education and graduate engineering programs are both highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Science in Education in Special Education offered through Purdue University combines a unique view of the entire education landscape with practical experience of the latest breakthroughs in assessment, instructional strategies, and evidence-based practices for teaching students with disabilities. The program can be completed in 20 months and will give students the skills necessary to plan and administer special education curriculum, facilitate a safe and effective classroom environment, and meet the needs of exceptional children who require highly-skilled educators. Master’s only as well as Master’s with initial special education licensure, and Master’s with advanced special education licensure tracks are all available. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Purdue University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $9879
Out-of-State: $14,685
#2. University of Florida
The University of Florida is a public university located in Gainesville, Florida. UF is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant institution founded in 1853. The university of Florida belongs to the prestigious Association of American Universities and is classified as a research university with very high activity by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Today, UF enrolls nearly 50,000 students in a wide range of academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. UF offers an expansive selection of both undergraduate and graduate degrees through distance and online learning including programs in agricultural sciences, arts, business, design, education, engineering, communication, medicine, and more. The online bachelor’s programs, MBA programs, graduate education programs, and graduate engineering programs are all ranked extremely high by U.S. News & World Report with a #1 ranking in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
The University of Florida’s online Master of Education in Special Education with a concentration in Teach Well is designed to prepare teachers to serve students with disabilities in inclusive settings. The courses provide a well-rounded program of study for anyone currently teaching students with disabilities or other learning differences. Participants obtain the knowledge and skills needed to be effective educators of all students— particularly those with special needs. The ideal candidate will be a practicing teacher in special education or other areas such as elementary education who seek to enhance their ability to serve all students within inclusive settings. The program is primarily for part-time students and can be completed in 2 years. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $16,164
Out-of-State: $24,840
#3. Texas A&M University
Located in College Station, Texas A&M university is the fourth-largest university in the United States. The university opened in 1876 as an Agricultural and Mechanical college. Today, Texas A&M enrolls over 64,300 students. It is widely considered a top university nationally and globally. TAMU is recognized particularly for its research contributions to animal cloning and petroleum engineering. The university has established a strong online presence with 40 plus online graduate degrees and certificates being offered in the Agricultural & Life Sciences, Dentistry, Education & Human Development, Engineering, Public Service, Nursing, Mathematics, and more. Online graduate education programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Masters of Education and Masters of Science in Special Education degree programs offered through Texas A&M University’s College of Education & Human Development are offered fully online. These programs are designed to prepare educator practitioners to serve as skillful, knowledgeable, and caring professionals. The program takes a broad, non-categorical view of disability, and includes training in the knowledge and skills for effectively meeting the needs of students classified as having disabilities as well as those identified as “low-performing” and “at-risk.” This program focuses on preparing expert-leaders to serve as educators or service providers, and may serve as a gateway to Ph.D. or other doctoral level programs in special education or related fields. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree which can be completed in 2 years of study.
Accreditation: Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $19,800
Out-of-State: $33,300
#4. University of Kansas
Located in Lawrence, the University of Kansas was founded in 1863 and is a public research university and the largest in the state of Kansas with an enrollment of over 28,000 students. The university is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The university offers more than 345 degree programs and includes highly regarded programs in city management and urban policy as well as in special education. KU offers online programs of study at the undergraduate and graduate levels in statistics & analytics, business, education, nutrition, occupational therapy, communication, nursing and more. Online graduate nursing programs as well as the special education program are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The University of Kansas offers online programs leading to a Master’s in Secondary Special Ed & Transition, as well as a Master’s in Special Education with Endorsement. The program in Special Ed & Transition is designed to help educators prepare secondary special education students and young adults with disabilities who are making the transition to adult life. The Special Education program is designed to prepare students to engage compassionately and expertly with students who have mild-to-moderate special education needs including learning disabilities, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and autism. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the Master’s degree which will take approximately 2 years.
Accreditation: The University of Kansas is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $18,215
#5. Lamar University
Lamar University is a public university located in Beaumont, Texas. The university was founded in 1923 and today enrolls nearly 15,000 students. The online programs were established in 2009. LU is recognized as a top National University by U.S. News and World Report and has high ranking programs in a number of different academic disciplines including its online graduate education programs. Lamar University offers eight online master’s degrees. The online degree offerings include Education, Health Promotion, Engineering Management, Nursing, and Criminal Justice. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks Lamar’s online bachelor’s programs, graduate education programs, and graduate nursing programs.
Lamar University’s online Master of Education in Special Education prepares students to design curricula and learning environments that nurture the abilities of special education students while helping them manage a range of learning difficulties and behavioral issues. With a core curriculum based in research, assessment and content specific to the exceptional learner, students will gain critical knowledge of how the needs and capabilities of these types of students differ from those developing normally and how best to guide them in their learning process. Students will also learn how to assess and evaluate educational status and progress as well as strategies for curriculum modification and behavior management. The program requires a minimum of 36 credits for completion and can be completed in as few as 18 months. The program is also available with a specialization in Autism.
Accreditation: Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $9,900
#6. University of Houston
The University of Houston is a public research university and flagship of the University of Houston System. The school was founded in 1927 and is the third largest university in Texas with an enrollment of over 42,700 students. The university is classified as a comprehensive doctoral research university with very high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university offers more than 280 degree programs through 12 colleges as well as being home to more than 40 research centers and institutes. UH additionally offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate level degree programs through online distance education in disciplines such as engineering, education, mathematics, social work, and more. UH is ranked #1 in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Education in Special Populations prepares professionals for the high-needs field of Special Education, and offers two tracks: Special Education Emphasis and Educational Diagnostician Emphasis. This program is designed to prepare educators to assume positions in public and private early childhood schools, educational and social agencies, foundations, public and private research organizations, and residential facilities. The Special Education Emphasis focuses on obtaining the necessary capacity for working with students with disabilities and meets certification requirements in the state of Texas. The Educational Diagnostician Emphasis prepares students for certification as Educational Diagnosticians in Texas Public Schools and extends teachers’ special education expertise by developing the necessary skill set to assess and identify learning problems in children. The degree will take 2 to 3 years to complete and requires a minimum of 36 credits.
Accreditation: The University of Houston is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $13,896
Out-of-State: $32,184
#7. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri was established in 1839 and is located in Columbia, Missouri. Mizzou is a member institution of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is designated as a “Doctoral/Research Extensive” university by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university enrolls over 35,400 students in a full range of academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. The University of Missouri has a strong online presence and offers 30 online graduate degrees. The online degree offerings include programs in Education, Agricultural Education, Public Health, Gerontology, and Biomedical Sciences. U.S. News & World Report ranks highly the online bachelor’s programs, and online graduate education programs.
The University of Missouri offers online Master of Education degrees in Special Education with emphasis options in Autism, Early Childhood & Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Gifted Education. These programs are designed to prepare educators to assist children, youth, and adults with disabilites to be academically and socially successful lifelong learners. The program strives to develop leaders in education and in related fields. Graduates become classroom teachers, administrators, professors, consultants, and researchers, and are among the most sought-after both within Missouri, and nationwide. The program employs a multi-disciplinary perspective that prepares graduates to excel within their fields and to effectively collaborate with others. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the M.Ed. in Special Education.
Accreditation: The University of Missouri is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $10,500
Out-of-State: $28,110
#8. University of Arkansas
Located in the town of Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas is a public research university founded in 1871 and is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a university with very high research activity, a distinction which only two percent of universities and colleges nationwide have received. Enrolling over 25,000 students the U of A is the largest University of the Arkansas University System. In addition to its traditional on-campus programs, the U of A has a wide range of online degree program offerings at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels including programs in education, business, nursing, agriculture, engineering, and more. The online bachelor’s programs, graduate education programs, graduate engineering programs, and graduate nursing programs are all highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Education in Special Education degree program offered through the University of Arkansas prepares teachers for teaching students in grades K-12 with a variety of disabilities, such as learning disabilities, mental retardation, attention deficit disorder, autism, and physical disabilities. Also available is coursework for the Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Applied Behavior Analysis. Students in the Graduate Certificate programs have supervised clinic opportunities available. The Special Education Program prepares teachers to teach in resource rooms, special education classrooms, and inclusive class settings. It also prepares teachers for teaching students identified as gifted and talented. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Arkansas is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $12,000
#9. Regis University
Regis University is a private Jesuit Catholic university, founded in 1877 now located in Denver, Colorado. Regis offers a variety of degrees and programs for undergraduate and graduate students as well as online programs. Regis University is a nationally-recognized, award-winning school with a mission in charity and community service. The university enrolls over 9,200 students and offers extensive online degree options in environmental sciences, education, behavioral sciences, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, computer and information sciences, and more. Regis’ online programs are highly ranked in almost every category of Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
The Master of Education in Special Education with initial teacher licensure degree program offered through Regis University online is designed for educators seeking the expertise needed to effectively teach students with a wide variety of special needs, ages five to 21, in the state of Colorado. The Teacher Education program is based on the philosophy that learning to be a teacher is best accomplished when an understanding of theory and practice is balanced by the knowledge gained through diverse experience in schools. Foundational courses will introduce students to theories in education. Students’ professional sequence courses will emphasize field placement and experiential learning. The program culminates with a student teaching semester where students will apply all they have learned throughout the duration of the program. A minimum of 46 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Regis University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
Tuition: $21,850
#10. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) was founded in 1973 and is located in Odessa, Texas. UTPB is part of the University of Texas system and did not begin accepting underclassmen – freshmen or sophomores – until 1991. UT Permian Basin is part of the University of Texas Online Consortium, which means that some of their distance degrees are offered in collaboration with other online University of Texas System universities. UTPB has online program offerings at the bachelor’s and master’s levels in education, business, public administration, child and family studies, communication, and more. UTPB’s online bachelor’s programs, MBA programs, and graduate education programs are all highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Arts in Special Education offered by the University of Texas of the Permian Basin is designed to help candidates learn how to enrich the lives of students with developmental and learning disabilities. You’ll examine the importance of cultural diversity, theories of behavior, human ontological development, classroom best practices, research design and current trends in special education programs and service. The program is paced at an accelerated rate with eight week classes. The program can be completed in as few as 12 months. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs is education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $8,964
#11. Indiana University
Indiana University is a multi-campus university system with its flagship campus located in Bloomington, Indiana. Established in 1820, IU Bloomington is the largest institution in the IU system with over 40,000 students. The university is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is considered a “Public Ivy”— a public institution of higher learning offering a quality of education commensurate with that of the Ivy Leagues. IU has an extensive list of online program offerings with 104 degree programs being offered online at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Programs are offered in business & law, computing, information, & technology, education, library & museum studies, nursing, public health, social work, and more. Online bachelor’s programs as well as online MBA, graduate business, and graduate education programs are all highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
Indiana University’s School of Education offers an online Master of Education in Special Education degree program that centers on research methods, teaching methods and materials, cultural diversity, management and intervention, collaborative strategies, resource and service utilization, and other instructional approaches that can maximize student success in school and community life. Although inclusive settings are a focus for this program, other types of special education arrangements for high incidence disabilities, such as resource and self-contained settings are incorporated. Students pursue an individualized track of four courses based on their area of interest, and complete a capstone project/thesis. The program consists of 36 credits and will take approximately 2 years to complete.
Accreditation: Indiana University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $15,156
Out-of-State: $18,180
#12. Michigan State University
Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, Michigan on a 10,000 acre campus. Founded in 1855, Michigan State was the first American land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862 and served as a model for other land-grant schools. The seventh-largest university in the United States, MSU is considered a “Public Ivy” and is relatively selective and discerning in its admissions process. Today, MSU enrolls over 50,500 students in over 200 academic programs. Additionally, MSU offers a wide variety of online degree and certificate programs in content areas including: laboratory science, criminal justice, education, health, business, nursing, physics, social work, supply chain management, and more. Online graduate programs in business, criminal justice, education, and nursing are all highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Arts in Special Education offered at Michigan State University is available with two different options: Learning disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Master’s Degree with an endorsement in learning disabilities (LD) or Master’s degree only programs will prepare educators to teach individuals with LD in K-12 grade settings. Students will learn research-validated methods and evidence-based practices that they will apply in authentic contexts to foster deeper understanding and critical reflection. The Master’s Degree with an endorsement in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or ASD endorsement only programs will prepare educators to teach individuals with ASDs in pre-K through 12th grade settings. Students will be trained to implement educational programming that relies on evidence-based practice for students with ASD. A graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis is also available online. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the Master’s degree.
Accreditation: Michigan State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
Tuition: $23,025
#13. Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University is located in Norfolk, Virginia. Established in 1930 as the College of William and Mary, the school acquired university status and its current name in 1969. ODU enrolls approximately 24,000 through on-campus and online programs, and is recognized as a national leader in distance learning. Online programs are offered in a wide variety of subject areas including business, communication, computer science, engineering, education, nursing and more. ODU ranks highly in almost every category of U.S. News & World Report”s online program rankings.
Old Dominion University’s Darden College of Education offers an online Master of Science in Special Education that will equip graduates to advance in their educational careers. Coursework in ODU Master’s degree in Special Education will focus on scholarly research, advanced instructional strategies, and the foundations of special education leadership. The advanced professional competencies gained in this program can also be the prerequisite course work to the PhD concentration in special education. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Old Dominion University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $14,340
Out-of-State: $15,480
#14. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University is a public university and a part of the University System of Georgia and enrolls over 20,000 students. The campus spans over 900 acres in Statesboro, Georgia, approximately one hour from Savannah. The university was established in 1906 and today offers 117 academic majors and programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. GSU offers online degree programs in business, education, health & human sciences, and engineering. GSU is highly ranked in every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
Georgia Southern University’s online Master of Education in Special Education program is designed for candidates who hold a Professional Level Four Certificate or equivalent in Special Education with certification in one or more of the following concentrations: Adaptive Curriculum and General Curriculum. It is an approved program by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission and meets the certificate upgrade requirements mandated by the Professional Standards Commission. This master’s program is based upon the concept of developmentally appropriate practices and the value of diverse, intensive field experiences working with diverse student populations. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Georgia Southern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $14,760
#15. Concordia University St. Paul
Concordia University-Saint Paul is a private, not-for-profit Lutheran university located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1893 to provide a Christian educational environment for Lutheran high schoolers, Concordia University-Saint Paul became an accredited two-year college in 1921, began admitting female students in 1950, and by 1967 became an accredited four-year institution. The university is an affiliate of the ten-member Concordia University System and enrolls over 2,800 students. Concordia offers an extensive selection of online degree program offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels in education, criminal justice, business, health, and more. Concordia University is recognized and highly ranked in every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
Concordia University St. Paul’s online Master of Arts in Special Education is designed to prepare highly-effective professional, decision-making and reflective educators who are proficient in foundational knowledge; referral, evaluation, planning and programming; instructional design, teaching, and ongoing evaluation; collaboration and communication, standards of effective practice; and core special education skills including instructional strategies, social/emotional health, social competence, cultural competence, classroom management and academic competence. The program follows an online cohort model in which students complete one 3 credit course every 7-8 weeks. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Concordia University St. Paul is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $13,608
#16. Pennsylvania State University
Established in 1855, Pennsylvania State University is a state-related research university with 24 statewide campuses. The university’s enrollment, including online learners is approximately 97,500 students. Pennsylvania State University World Campus is often referred to as “Penn State Online” and is the virtual campus of Pennsylvania State University. The World Campus was founded in 1998, but Pennsylvania State University has been offering distance education courses since 1892, when it developed one of the nation’s pioneer correspondence study programs for statewide farmers. Online offerings include programs in business, education, sustainability, engineering, homeland security, law, communication, nursing, and more. Penn State World Campus is ranked in the top #10 of every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The online Master of Education in Special Education degree program from Penn State World Campus provides students knowledge and training in evidence-based practices to support individuals with special needs or those who are at risk. This program focuses on current issues and topics in the field of special education and gives students the opportunity to choose an emphasis in Academic and Behavioral Supports; Applied Behavior Analysis; or Autism. The program can be completed in one calendar year of full-time study. A minimum of 32 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Pennsylvania State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $25,760
#17. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University is a public institution located in Hays, Kansas. The university consists of approximately 11,000 students, over half of which are online. Founded in 1902 and originally located on the grounds of a retired military outpost, Fort Hays State University moved to its current location in 1904. Big Creek, a stream that spans the main 200 acre campus, adds to the beauty of the school and also serves as an occasional outdoor laboratory for students studying the biological sciences. The Virtual College at Fort Hays offers programs in business, counseling, education, health, nursing, and more. FHSU is highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in the online program rankings of bachelor’s programs, MBA programs, graduate education programs, and graduate nursing programs.
The online Master of Science in Special Education offered at Fort Hays State University is designed to prepare exceptional professional educators for today’s schools. This program can either be completed with a Gifted or High-Incidence Special Education concentration. The Gifted Education concentration focuses on the practical needs and challenges faced by today’s facilitators of gifted students. Here are few things you need to know about this degree program:The High-Incidence Special Education Master of Science program concentrates on the practical needs and challenges faced by today’s educators of special needs students. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree which can be finished between 18 and 24 months.
Accreditation: Fort Hays State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $9,108
#18. Florida International University
Florida International University is located in Greater Miami, Florida. Classified as a research university with high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation, FIU is the 2nd-largest university in Florida and the largest university in South Florida with an enrollment of over 54,000 students. The most competitive public Floridian university with the lowest admissions rate, FIU is able to boast the highest number of high school valedictorian students in attendance in the country. FIU has a variety of online program offerings including programs in engineering, construction management, business, criminal justice, education, forensic science, communication, health, nursing, and more. FIU is highly ranked in every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The online Master of Science in Special Education: Autism Endorsement degree program offered at Florida International University provides special education teachers with advanced training to reach the children who need quality instruction the most. The Special Education degree leads to an endorsement in autism, providing graduates with the skills to teach learners on the autism spectrum. Our graduate program also places special emphasis on classroom-based research and on preparing special education teachers to work with culturally and linguistically diverse learners and their families. The program can be completed in one year and requires a minimum of 36 credits for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Florida International University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $18,288
#19. Ball State University
Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University is a public research university classified by the Carnegie Foundation as an institution with high research activity. Ball State was founded in 1917 as a Normal School for the preparation of teachers in the region. BSU enrolls over 21,000 students and offers a variety of online degree programs at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Online program offerings include content areas such as education, business, interior design, journalism, nursing, public relations, and more. U.S. News & World Report recognizes and ranks highly Ball State University in the online rankings of bachelor’s programs, MBA programs, graduate education programs, and graduate nursing programs.
Ball State University’s Master of Arts in Special Education, gives students the option to select from one of eight focus areas and make that your teaching focus. While all of our focus areas include online classes, four of them are offered 100 percent online: Autism, Applied Behavior Analysis, Director of Exceptional Needs, and Response to Interventions. Many of the courses used for the master’s degree in special education can also be used toward various licensing programs in special education. However, this program does not provide an initial teaching license. This master’s degree program requires completion of at least 30 credits.
Accreditation: Ball State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $11,820
Out-of-State: $17,700
#20. University of Nebraska Kearney
Established in 1905 as the state normal school, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is part of the University of Nebraska system. UNK’s campus spans 258 acres and boasts 32 buildings, not all of which are academic, but historical. UNK enrolls approximately 7,000 students. The university’s “eCampus” offers online undergraduate and graduate degree programs and has been recognized as one of the top online universities in the U.S. Online degree offerings are offered in a wide variety of disciplines including: education, biology, english, history, and more. UNK is ranked #25 in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The University of Nebraska Kearney eCampus offers Master of Arts in Special Education degrees with emphasis options in Advanced Practitioner, Gifted Education, and Special Education. The Advanced Practitioner program is designed for teachers who currently hold certification in Special Education and would like to further their education. The Gifted Education emphasis is designed for teachers who currently hold an undergraduate degree in education and would like to further their education. It is also designed to prepare educators with the knowledge base and competencies necessary for the appropriate education of gifted and talented learners. The Special Education emphasis is designed for teachers who currently hold a teaching certificate in any discipline and would like to obtain certification in special education in the state of Nebraska. Students pursuing certification in other states must check with their State Department of Education for certification requirements. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska at Kearney is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $15,480
#21. University of the Cumberlands
University of the Cumberlands is a 4-year, private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention. The university offers degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. It is based in Williamsburg, Kentucky, and was established in 1889. The University enrolls just over 6,000 students. Online programs are offered at the graduate and undergraduate levels in a wide range of academic disciplines including: business, counseling, criminal justice, education, health sciences, and more. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks the online bachelor’s programs, online MBA programs, online graduate criminal justice programs, and online graduate education programs.
The Online Master of Arts in Teaching degree program at the University of the Cumberlands provides a range of certification options including an option in Special Education—Learning & Behavior Disorders (P-12). This program is designed for those who hope to make a lasting impression on the lives of students. Students participating in this program will take courses which include Teaching Math to Learners with Disabilities, Reading and Writing Foundations, Classroom and Behavior Management for Individuals with Disabilities, Special Education Evaluation, Working with Parents, and Issues and Trends in Special Education, among other things. The program provides state licensure and builds a foundation of knowledge and experience that will help candidates excel in today’s classrooms. 42 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of the Cumberlands is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $13,230
#22. University of Northern Colorado
Established in 1889 as the State Normal School of Colorado, the University of Northern Colorado is a public research university located in Greeley, Colorado, with a strong background in teacher education. The university offers over 100 undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, humanities, business, human sciences, and education all with a strong emphasis in liberal arts education. The university offers nearly 50 graduate programs primarily in education. UNC online offers many degree options in disciplines such as American sign language, audiology, biological sciences, business, counseling, education, nursing, sociology, and more. UNC is recognized with high rankings in online bachelor’s programs and graduate education programs by U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The University of Northern Colorado offers a Master of Arts in Special Education with degree emphasis options in Deaf & Hard of Hearing, Early Childhood, Genralist, Gifted & Talented, and Visual Impairment.The program is designed to prepare leaders in teaching students across a broad range of disabilities and needs including students with learning and behavior disabilities, autism, cognitive and intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities. The program requires a minimum of 45 credits for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Northern Colorado is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $20,118
#23 Florida State University
A space-grant, land-grant and public research university, Florida State University was founded in 1851 and is located in Tallahassee, the state’s capital. FSU enrolls over 41,700 students The university has is considered a “Budget Ivy”—an institution of higher learning offering a quality of education at the level of the Ivy Leagues at a fraction of the cost. Most of FSU’s degree programs rank nationally among the top 25 public universities. FSU offers online degrees in business, communication, criminal justice, education, engineering, nursing, social work, and more. FSU ranks highly in almost every category of online program rankings by U.S. News & World Report, including ranking in at #3 in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
Florida State University’s online Master of Science in Special Education Studies is designed for practicing teachers who wish to expand and/or update their knowledge of special education and/or to increase their ability to teach learners who experience disabilities. This degree program is appropriate for individuals with degrees or teacher certification in special education, early childhood education, elementary education, or middle or high school education. This program is not designed to meet teacher certification requirements of any state. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Florida State University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $15,807
Out-of-State: $36,663
#24. University of Cincinnati
Founded in 1819 the University of Cincinnati is a public research university and part of the University System of Ohio. Enrolling over 43,600 students, UC is the second largest university in the state of Ohio. The University of Cincinnati offers a wide range of online degree options at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and mater’s levels including programs in education, criminal justice, human services, information technology, health sciences, engineering, nursing, and more. The online programs at the University of Cincinnati rank highly in almost every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Education in Special Education is designed for special education teachers who are passionate about not only improving learning outcomes but also the quality of life for children with special needs. Students choose from among 3 concentrations in: Advanced Studies, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Transition to Work. The program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in as little as 2 years.
Accreditation: The University of Cincinnati is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are regionally accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $21,720
Out-of-State: $22,170
#25. George Mason University
Located in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University is a public research university founded as a branch of the University of Virginia. GMU is recognized for its programs in economics, law, creative writing, computer science, and business. George Mason enrolls approximately 34,000 student which includes students enrolled through Mason Online. Over 50 online programs are offered leading to degrees in business, education, engineering & technology, health, and science & math. U.S. News & World Report recognizes George Mason’s programs among the top online MBA and online graduate education programs in their rankings.
The online Master of Education in Special Education with emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis offered through George Mason University is designed to prepare both educators for the classroom as well as individuals working in a special education context outside of the classroom to support the needs of individuals with disabilities. Paired with the 18-credit Applied Behavior Analysis graduate certificate program, the Master’s in Special Education will augment the professional training of individuals who design, implement, and monitor behavioral treatment and verbal behavior training programs in schools, private practices, and agencies. Please note that this program does not lead to teacher licensure. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: George Mason University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $16,380
Out-of-State: $16,380
