By TED Staff
August 2021
The hearts of many teachers are drawn to special education. If you find you are interested in working with children (or adults!) with learning differences or physical disabilities, or with those considered “gifted and talented,” then you will need a master’s degree in special education.
But as anyone in education can tell you, teaching is not a get-rich-quick industry. Therefore, most would-be special education instructors are interested in affordable master’s degree programs that they can complete on their own time and on a teacher’s salary. That’s where Top Education Degrees comes in. We searched high and low for the 50 cheapest master’s in special education that can be completed entirely online.
Methodology
For the 50 most affordable online master’s in special education degree programs online, we began by putting together a list of nearly 85 colleges and universities — both non-profit and for-profit — which offer this degree exclusively online. We then researched each program to determine the estimated program cost for out-of-state students pursuing the degree online. Finally, we ranked each program from lowest to highest estimated program cost. The 50 most affordable degree programs are detailed below, in descending order of rank.
Please note: Any tuition numbers are courtesy of that school’s website, and may reflect the tuition for the entire cost of the degree. Fees are not included in our estimates. All tuition numbers are accurate as of August 2021.
Penn State University, World Campus
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
University Park, Pennsylvania
Estimated Program Cost: $28,500
Previous Ranking: #50
Pennsylvania State University’s top-ranked World Campus offers an M.Ed in Special Education that students can complete entirely online, from anywhere in the world. The 33-credit program includes three emphases from which students may choose: Academic and Behavioral Supports, Autism, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Though the program is flexible, most students are able to complete the 11-course program in 1.5-2 years. PennState World Campus is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
George Mason University
Online Master of Education in Teaching and Learning – Special Education
Website
Fairfax, Virginia
Estimated Program Cost: $21,210 (Virginia residents), $27,210 (out-of-state)
Previous Ranking: #46
Top-ranked George Mason University offers an online Master of Education in Teaching and Learning with a concentration in Special Education. The 30-credit program is not an initial teacher licensure program. Rather, it provides advanced expertise for teachers routinely working with individuals with special needs. Though most of the degree can be completed online, it is worth noting that a summer intensive on the Virginia-based campus is also required. George Mason University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
Emporia State University
Online Master of Science in Special Education – High Incidence
Website
Emporia, Kansas
Estimated Program Cost: $27,110
Previous Ranking: #48
Founded in 1863 as a teachers’ college, Emporia State University now offers a M.S. in Special Education that can be completed entirely online. The 36-credit program includes a concentration in High Incidence. Students are required to take such courses as Reading Instruction for Diverse Learners, Characteristics of Students with High Incidence Disabilities, and Analysis of Research, to name but three. Emporia State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Saint Joseph’s University
Online Master of Science in Special Education
Website
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Estimated Tuition Cost: $26,796
Previous Rank: #49
Saint Joseph’s University is a private research university affiliated with the Jesuits. The university includes a top-ranked online program, through which it offers an M.S. in Special Education. Over the course of 33 credits, students tackle coursework in subjects like current issues in special education and diagnostic assessment. Customizable master’s degree options are also available with certificates and endorsements in Autism Spectrum Disorder, teaching deaf and hard of hearing, and emotional and behavioral wellness. St. Joseph’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of Houston Victoria
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Victoria, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $11,030 (Texas residents), $23,270 (out-of-state)
Previous Ranking: #45
The University of Houston Victoria offers five different special education degrees, including the online Master of Education in Special Education. The 100% online degree is a 30-credit hour program, and includes coursework in curriculum development and human growth and development. The University of Houston Victoria offers an online graduate tuition rate of $776 per credit hour for this program, though Texas residents pay an in-state rate. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
West Virginia University
Online Master of Arts in Multicategorical Special Education
Website
Morgantown, West Virginia
Estimated Program Cost: $23,040
Previous Ranking: #43
West Virginia University offers an online M.A. in Multicategorical Special Education. The 36-credit program consists of 11 classes in subjects such as Disciplinary Literacy, Mathematics for Special Needs, and Technology Applications for Special Needs, to name but three. The degree culminates in a special project. West Virginia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
The University of Arizona
Online Master of Arts in Special Education – Applied Behavior Analysis
Website
Tucson, Arizona
Estimated Program Cost: $22,860
Previous Ranking: #44
The University of Arizona offers an online M.A. in Special Education with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis. Over the course of the 36-credit degree program, students complete courses such as Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Exceptional Learners, Special Services in the Schools, and Ethical Issues in Behavior Analysis, to name but three. The program culminates with a master’s project in a specific area of behavior analysis. The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
University of Cincinnati
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Cincinnati, Ohio
Estimated Program Cost: $22,380 (Ohio residents), $22,830 (out-of-state)
Previous Ranking: Unranked
University of Cincinnati is a public research university, and a member of the University System of Ohio. The university offers a Master of Education in Special Education which students can complete 100% online, from anywhere in the world. Master’s students may customize their degree by choosing one of three concentration options: Licensure and Reading Endorsement, Supporting Students with Complex Needs, and Transition to Work Endorsement and Special Education Leadership. The degree consists of 30 credits, regardless of concentration choice.
Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction – Special Education
Website
Manchester, New Hampshire
Estimated Program Cost: $22,572
Previous Ranking: #42
Southern New Hampshire University’s online programs have made the school one of the fastest-growing educational institutions in the nation. The university offers an online M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction that focuses especially on Special Education. The 36-credit program includes coursework in Curriculum Design, Leadership in Teaching and Learning, and Evidence-Based Research for Education. The degree culminates with a seminar and capstone in Curriculum and Instruction. Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.
The University of Toledo
Online Master of Education in Special Education – Early Childhood
Website
Toledo, Ohio
Estimated Program Cost: $22,140
Previous Ranking: #40
Based in Ohio, The University of Toledo offers an online M.Ed in Special Education with a concentration in Early Childhood. The 36-credit program includes coursework in the four aspects of teaching in special education: curriculum, social, research, and psychology. Typically, the master’s degree takes five semesters to complete. The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Purdue University
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education
Website
West Lafayette, Indiana
Estimated Program Cost: $13,020
Previous Ranking: #41
Purdue University was ranked 43rd (tie) in US News and World Report’s listing of Best Graduate Education Schools. With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education that is a 31 credit hour program including coursework in applied behavior analysis and intervention strategies. Purdue University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $420 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Youngstown State University
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education
Website
Youngstown, Ohio
Estimated Program Cost: $12,450
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Youngstown State University is a public university with about 12,000 on-campus students, and a large population of online students. The school offers an online Master of Science in Special Education with concentrations in either Autism & Related Disabilities or Intervention Specialist Mild-Moderate Disabilities. Both degrees are 30 credits, and can be completed in as few as 12 months. The degree program does not require a teaching license for admission.
#39. University of Kansas
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education – Autism Spectrum Disorder
Website
Lawrence, Kansas
Estimated Program Cost: $21,420
Previous Ranking: #39
The University of Kansas was ranked 17th in US News and World Report’s listing of Best Graduate Education Schools. With a student to faculty ratio of 17:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education with an emphasis in autism spectrum disorders that is a 36 credit hour program that has three available tracks: behavior, leadership and secondary/transition. The University of Kansas offers an online graduate tuition rate of $595 per credit hour, regardless of residency. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#38. Columbus State University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Columbus, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost: $20,020
Previous Ranking: #38
Columbus State University is a public institution founded in 1958, with a large international student body. With a student to faculty ratio of 16:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in educational research methods and special education law for educators. Columbus State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $385 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. 52 credits minimum.
#37. University of Louisville
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Louisville, Kentucky
Estimated Program Cost: $19,872
Previous Ranking: #37
The University of Louisville was ranked #78 (tie) in US News and World Report’s listing of Best Graduate Education Schools. With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in behavior management and modifying instruction in the general curriculum. The University of Louisville offers an online graduate tuition rate of $764 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#36. University of Arkansas at Monticello
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Monticello, Arkansas
Estimated Program Cost: $18,759
Previous Ranking: #36
The University of Arkansas at Monticello is a liberal arts institution that began in 1909 as an agricultural school. With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in technology for school leaders and foundations of teaching reading. The University of Arkansas at Monticello offers an online out-of-state graduate tuition rate of $625.33per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#35. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Mild/Moderate Special Education
Website
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Estimated Program Cost: $18,525
Previous Ranking: #35
The Northwestern State University of Louisiana was established in 1874 as a teachers’ college. The school’s motto is, “Dedicated to One Goal. Yours.” With a student to faculty ratio of 19:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching in Mild/Moderate Special Education that is a 39 credit hour program including coursework in data literacy and classroom culture. The Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers an online graduate tuition rate of $475 per credit hour, regardless of residency. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#34. Florida International University
Online Master of Science in Special Education – Autism Endorsement
Website
Miami, Florida
Estimated Tuition Cost: $18,300
Previous Ranking: #34
Florida International University offers an online M.S. in Special Education with an endorsement in Autism. The 36-credit program prepares students to work in the state of Florida with learners on the Autism Spectrum. An emphasis is placed on classroom-based research, and required courses include Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Exceptional Learners, Instructional Technology for Special Education, and Nature & Needs of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#33. Stephen F. Austin State University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Nacogdoches, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $18,162
Previous Ranking: #33
Stephen F. Austin State University was founded in 1923 as a teachers’ college. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in assessment and special education law. Stephen F Austin State University offers an online out-of-state graduate tuition rate of $504.50 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#32. Grand Canyon University
Online Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Website
Phoenix, Arizona
Estimated Program Cost: $18,080
Previous Ranking: #32
Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and was the first for-profit, Christian college in the U.S. With a student to faculty ratio of 20:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Autism Spectrum Disorders that is a 32 credit hour program including coursework in brain-based learning and collaborations in autism spectrum disorders. Grand Canyon University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $565 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#31. Bemidji State University
Online Master of Special Education
Website
Bemidji, Minnesota
Estimated Program Cost: $17,106
Previous Ranking: #31
Bemidji State University was founded in 1919 as a preparatory school for teachers. With a student to faculty ratio of 21:1, the school offers an online Master of Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in collaboration and due process in special education. Bemidji State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $475.15 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#30. Xavier University
Online Master of Science in Special Education
Website
Cincinnati, Ohio
Estimated Program Cost: $17,100
Previous Ranking: #30
Xavier University was founded in 1831 and is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Jesuit, Catholic faith. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in advanced human development and Montessori philosophy. Xavier University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $570 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#29. Kentucky State University
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Website
Frankfort, Kentucky
Estimated Program Cost: $16,500
Previous Ranking: #29
Kentucky State University was established in 1886 and has four colleges with six post-graduate programs. With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Special Education that is a 33-45 credit hour program including coursework in theories of reading and parental issues in special education. Kentucky State University offers an online out-of-state graduate tuition rate of $500 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#28. University of Nebraska, Omaha
Online Master of Science in Special Education
School Profile
Omaha, Nebraska
Estimated Program Cost: $16,452
Previous Ranking: #28
The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public research institution and was founded in 1908 as a private, non-sectarian college. With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Special Education that is a 36-39 credit hour program including coursework in high incidence disabilities and professional collaboration. The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers an online out of state graduate tuition rate of $420.25 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#27. Graceland University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Lamoni, Iowa
Estimated Program Cost: $15,750
Previous Ranking: #27
Graceland University is a private, liberal arts institution, founded in 1895, that is affiliated with the Community of Christ Church. With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in special education methods and educational assessment. Graceland University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $525 per credit hour. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#26. University of North Dakota
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Estimated Program Cost: $15,587
Previous Ranking: #26
University of North Dakota offers an online M.Ed in Special Education that can be completed entirely online. Students may choose between eight different specializations, including Special Education Strategist, Intellectual Disabilities, and Visual Impairment, to name but three. Depending on chosen specialization, the degree consists of a minimum of 32 credits. Coursework includes Behavior Management, Inclusive Methods, and Ethical and Professional Conduct for Behavior Analysis. University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#25. University of Missouri
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Website
Columbia, Missouri
Estimated Program Cost: $15,294
Previous Ranking: #25
The University of Missouri was ranked 46th (tie) in US News and World Report’s listing of Best Graduate Education Schools. With a student to faculty ratio of 17:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Special Education that is a 33 credit hour program including coursework in research with exceptional children and cross-categorical special education. The University of Missouri offers an online graduate tuition rate of $453.03 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#24. Morningside College
Online Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education
Website
Sioux City, Iowa
Estimated Program Cost: $15,120
Previous Ranking: #24
Morningside College is a private, liberal arts institution, founded in 1894 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in learning in educational settings and instructional technology. Morningside College offers an online graduate tuition rate of $420 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#23. Wilson College
Online Master of Special Education
Website
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Estimated Program Cost: $15,000
Previous Ranking: #23
Wilson College was founded in 1869 and is a private, Presbyterian-related, liberal arts institution. The school’s motto is “Arts, Sciences, Religion.” With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, the school offers an online Master of Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in educational research and early intervention. Wilson College offers an online graduate tuition rate of $500 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
#21. Kennesaw State University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Kennesaw, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost: $14,853
Previous Ranking: #21
Kennesaw State University was established in 1963 and is a public, research-oriented institution. With a student to faculty ratio of 21:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in assessment for diverse learners and data-based inquiry. Kennesaw State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $383 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#20. University of North Texas
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Denton, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $14,850
Previous Ranking: #20
The University of North Texas is a public research institution. The school was established in 1890 as a teachers’ college. With a student to faculty ratio of 25:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 33 credit hour program including coursework in autism assessment and teaching social skills The University of North Texas offers an online graduate non-resident tuition rate of $450 per credit hour. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#19. Western Governors University
Online Master of Science in Special Education
Website
Salt Lake City, Utah
Estimated Program Cost: $14,740
Previous Ranking: #19
Western Governors University is a private, nonprofit, online institution, founded in 1997 by 19 US governors. The school’s motto is, “A New Kind of U.” With a student to faculty ratio of 41:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Special Education that is a 12-course program including coursework in instructional design and research fundamentals. Western Governors University offers a full-time graduate rate of $3,385 per semester. The school is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
#18. University of West Alabama
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Livingston, Alabama
Estimated Program Cost: $14,586
Previous Ranking: #18
The University of West Alabama is a public institution founded in 1835, and the school’s motto is “Do Something That Matters.” With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 34 credit hour program including coursework in educational planning and counseling multicultural populations. The University of West Alabama offers an online graduate tuition rate of $429 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#17. University of Wisconsin, Superior
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education
Website
Superior, Wisconsin
Estimated Program Cost: $14,400
Previous Ranking: #17
The University of Wisconsin Superior is a public liberal arts college and was founded in 1893 as a teacher training institution. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in the exceptional learner and behavioral interventions. The University of Wisconsin Superior offers an online graduate tuition rate of $480 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#15. (tie) University of Central Arkansas
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education
Website
Conway, Arkansas
Estimated Program Cost: $14,280
Previous Ranking: #15 (tied)
The University of Central Arkansas, bearing the motto “Go here. Go anywhere,” began in 1907 as a normal school. With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in legal aspects of special education and solution-focused learning. The University of Central Arkansas offers an online graduate tuition rate of $476.01 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#15. (tie) Greenville University
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Website
Greenville, Illinois
Estimated Program Cost: $14,280
Previous Ranking: #15 (tied)
Greenville University is a liberal arts institution and was founded in 1892. The school is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in characteristics of disabilities and special education methods. Greenville University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $476 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#14. Carson Newman University
Online Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education
Website
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Estimated Program Cost: $14,040
Previous Ranking: #14
Carson Newman University is a Christian, liberal arts college, founded in 1851 and affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, the school offers an online Master of Education, Curriculum, and Instruction, Special Education emphasis, that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in educational research and managing challenging behaviors. Carson Newman University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $390 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#13. University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Edinburg, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $13,749
Previous Ranking: #13
The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley was created in 2013 from the University of Texas-Pan American and the University of Texas-Brownsville/Southmost College. With a student to faculty ratio of 19:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in advanced individual differences and assessment of learning. The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley offers an online graduate tuition rate of $458.33 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#12. University of the Cumberlands
Online Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education
Website
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Estimated Program Cost: $13,230
Previous Ranking: #12
The University of the Cumberlands is a private college affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention, and the school’s motto is “A Life More Abundant.” With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education that is a 42 credit hour program including coursework in special education evaluation and working with parents. The University of the Cumberlands offers an online graduate tuition rate of $315 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#11. Minot State University
Online Master of Education – Special Education
Website
Minot, North Dakota
Estimated Program Cost: $12,419
Previous Ranking: #11
Minot State University was founded in 1913 and consists of three colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education and Health Sciences. With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, the school offers an online Master of Education, Special Education concentration that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in disability services and methods of teaching. Minot State University offers an online out-of-state graduate tuition rate of $413.97 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#10. Concordia University – Saint Paul
Online Master of Arts in Education in Special Education
Website
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Estimated Program Cost: $11,850
Previous Ranking: #10
Concordia University-Saint Paul is a liberal arts college, founded in 1893 and operated by the Lutheran church body. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in literacy strategies and collaborative consultation. Concordia University-Saint Paul offers an online graduate tuition rate of $395 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
#9. Arkansas State University
Online Master of Science in Education in Special Education
Website
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Estimated Program Cost: $11,412
Previous Ranking: #9
Arkansas State University was founded in 1909 and is a public research institution. The school’s motto is “Educate, Enhance, Enrich: e3.” With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in philosophies of education and positive behavior interventions. Arkansas State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $317 per credit hour, regardless of residency. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#8. Delta State University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Cleveland, Mississippi
Estimated Program Cost: $11,235
Previous Ranking: #8
Delta State University, founded in 1924, was the site, in 1947, where Dean Acheson unveiled President Harry Truman’s Marshall Plan. With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 30-33 credit hour program including coursework in teaching for inclusion and psychology of learning. Delta State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $374.50 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#7. Southeast Missouri State University
Online Master of Arts in the Exceptional Child Education
Website
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Estimated Program Cost: $11,220
Previous Ranking: #7
Southeast Missouri State University began as a normal school in 1873 and continues to maintain strong teacher education programs. With a student to faculty ratio of 20:1, the school offers an online Master of Arts in Exceptional Child Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in family/school collaboration and research in action. Southeast Missouri State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $374 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#6. Mississippi College
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Clinton, Mississippi
Estimated Program Cost: $10,950
Previous Ranking: #6
Mississippi College is a private, co-educational, comprehensive university, affiliated with the Baptist faith. The school’s motto is “Truth and Virtue.” With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 30 credit hour program including coursework in curriculum development and prescriptive reading. Mississippi College offers an online graduate tuition rate of $365 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#4. (tie) University of Louisiana at Monroe
Online Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction – Special Education in Early Intervention
Website
Monroe, Louisiana
Estimated Program Cost: $10,800
Previous Ranking: #4 (tied)
University of Louisiana at Monroe offers an online M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction with a concentration in Special Education in Early Intervention. The 36-credit program can be completed in as few as 15 months and includes coursework in instructional methods, behavioral management, and technologies used in special education environments. The University of Louisiana at Monroe is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#4. (tie) Albany State University
Online Master of Education in Special Education
Website
Albany, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost: $10,800
Previous Ranking: #4 (tied)
Albany State University is a state-supported HBCU whose founder was inspired by the writings of W.E. B. Du Bois to help the black people of Albany. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in the philosophy of education and educational assessment of exceptional children. Albany State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $300 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#3. Fort Hays State University
Online Master of Science in High-Incidence Special Education
Website
Hays, Kansas
Estimated Program Cost: $10,748
Previous Ranking: #3
Fort Hays State University is a public, coeducational institution. Founded in 1902, the school was agricultural-based, but later became a teachers’ college. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, the school offers an online Master of Science in High-Incidence Special Education that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in behavior management in schools and transitional education. Fort Hays State University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $298.55 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
#2. West Texas A&M University
Online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction – Special Education
Website
Canyon, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $8,794
Previous Ranking: #2
West Texas A&M University is a public institution and began in 1910. The school’s motto is “Vision, Truth, Valor.” With a student to faculty ratio of 20:1, the school offers an online Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, Special Education option, that is a 36 credit hour program including coursework in assistive technology and individual mental testing. West Texas A&M University offers an online graduate tuition rate of $244.27 per credit hour for this program. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
#1. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Online Master of Arts in Special Education
Website
Odessa, Texas
Estimated Program Cost: $6,840
Previous Ranking: #1
Topping our list of the most affordable master’s degrees in Special Education is University of Texas of the Permian Basin. The public university’s M.A in Special Education consists of 36 credits, and be completed entirely online. Students may choose between the general option, an Autism and Developmental Disabilities option, or a slightly longer Educational Diagnostician option (45 credits). University of Texas of the Permian Basin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
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