Best Colleges for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education
The demand for special education teachers is currently high. Based on the national list of the US Education Department on identified areas experiencing teacher shortages, there are numerous opportunities for students who wish to earn special education degrees via online learning.
Special Education online Bachelor’s degree programs enable students to become future educators who assist children with special needs to learn and succeed in academic institutions.
Through online degree programs, students can acquire sufficient knowledge, competent skills, effective teaching practices, and strategies for properly handling children with learning, emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioral challenges.
For the audio summary, listen here:
About Online Special Education Programs
Generally, online degree programs in Special Education provide expertise in the areas of autism, early childhood education, applied behavior analysis, visual impairment, and courses for the gifted and talented. There are degree programs that prepare educators to teach students from kindergarten up to the 12th grade.
Subjects such as writing, reading, math, and science are also taught to children with special needs, along with activities that engage them and enhance their communication skills.
Internship opportunities and demonstration teaching are also provided for Special Education majors to develop their teaching skills and help them gain hands-on experience.
Advantages of Online Special Education
All graduates of the online special education degree find fulfilling work of educating children with learning conditions. Several states need special education teachers who are bachelor’s degree graduates.
Special education teachers, speech and language pathologists, educational audiologists, and early intervention consultants are some of the jobs that an online special education graduate can get.
Those with a master’s degree can get higher-paying jobs and more duties on the job, while those who hold an associate degree in special education can get employment as childcare workers and teacher’s assistants.
Concentrations of a Special Education Degree
Special education online schools usually offer practices in visual impairment, early childhood, applied behavior analysis, gifted and talented, and autism. In the US, there are 1 out of 68 children diagnosed with autism spectrum as stated by the Centers for Disease Control.
This is the reason why several special education students choose to concentrate on the autism spectrum so that they can effectively teach children with this condition.
Concentrations for this career include:
- Assistive Technology
- Visual Impairment
- Early Childhood
- Severe Disabilities
- Autism
Choosing an Online Special Education Degree
You should take your time when choosing an online special education degree, as each program varies in duration, cost, size, and transfer rules. Ensure that your financial, educational, and career goals suit your chosen online special education degree program.
Generally, in-state colleges offer the most cost-effective choice. Program cost and length, transfer rules, type and size of the school, and on-campus requirements are the following factors you should consider to choose the right school that fits your interests best!
The following are online schools that offer bachelor’s degrees in Special Education. In this list, we gathered the comprehensive academic programs offered by various colleges and universities across the United States.
After coming up with our shortlist, we ranked them based on specific parameters, including program features, accreditation, course options, tuition rates, admission requirements, and financial aid opportunities.
We also highlight the uniqueness of each program or coursework. The best online schools offering Bachelor’s in Special Education are ranked and listed in random order.
Please visit our Methodology page to get in-depth information.
Best Colleges for Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Special Education
East Carolina University
East Carolina University (ECU) offers the online Bachelor of Science in Special Education degree program under the College of Education, which has been ranked as one of the best universities in the country.
The completion degree program provides a wide range of opportunities for students coming from North Carolina community colleges.
Students are also equipped to properly handle K-12 children having various learning and cognitive disabilities.
Location
Greenville, North Carolina
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- 126 total credits for completion
- Coursework is 100% online
- Students study on a part-time basis
- Practical training (classroom observations, practice teaching/full-time internship in a public school classroom)
Course Options
- Communication
- Adapted Physical Activity
- Occupational Therapy
- Recreational Therapy
- Rehabilitation Services
Admissions
- Scores from Praxis Core tests in Reading, Math, and Writing
- Official transcripts
- ACT or SAT test results
- Satisfactory completion of required coursework from previous schools attended
Financial Aid
Scholarships, loans, financial aid awards, AMS payment plans, and eRefunds
What’s unique about the program
Online students are required to obtain a Partnership East (PE) special education major in order to effectively receive a K-12 Reading Licensure.
Western Governors University
Western Governors University (WGU) is one of the country’s leading academic institutions that features 100% online bachelor’s degree programs. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Special Education program, which follows a cross-categorical pattern.
The central goal of the degree program is to equip special education majors who want to handle children with mild to moderate behavioral and learning disabilities. Graduates produced at WGU are well-trained and sufficiently prepared to pursue teaching careers in special education schools.
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Program Features
- coursework composed of dual K-12 special education and K-8 elementary education licensure prerequisites (at least 15 hours spent per week)
- completion from 18 months to 4 years
- Special Education track for completion in 2 ½ years (for students with completed credits) and four years (for students with no previous completed college credits)
- Cohort seminar and practice teaching (twice a year)
- Professional portfolio
- Highly competent clinical advisors
- Well-experienced professional educators
Course Options
- Classroom Management and Student Motivation
- Psychology for Educators
- Reading Methods and Interventions
- Performing Arts
- Physical Education
- Mathematics and Numeracy
Admissions
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts of coursework from previously attended schools
- At least 16 years of age
- Interview with the WGU Enrollment Counselor
Financial Aid
Scholarships, loans, tuition assistance
What’s unique about the program
Coursework at WGU is offered in an asynchronous manner, which means students can complete the degree program at their own pace and schedule. Tuition is also based on time-to-completion instead of credit hours; thus, all fees are the same even though the number of credit units per term to be taken by each student varies.
This is unique to WGU as students are able to progress effectively through the entire coursework without having to worry about fees.
Liberty University
Liberty University is known for its high-quality online programs, such as the Bachelor of Science Special Education Interdisciplinary Studies degree program.
The program allows students to obtain sufficient knowledge and skills in special education from a Christian perspective. It applies current educational trends such as direct instruction and differentiated learning.
Current practices and special education models are explored with a special focus on autism, learning disabilities, and other behavioral conditions. Liberty University takes a faith-based approach toward full comprehension of the coursework.
Location
Lynchburg, Virginia
Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Program Features
- 100% online (8-week courses)
- total credit hours for completion is 120
- generous transfer credit policy (minimum 30 credit hours accepted)
- optional 300-hour practicum
- coursework more on methodology and theories of Christian education
Course Options
- Christian Life and Thought
- Autism
- Behavioral Problems
- Survey of Trends in Special Education
Admissions
- Transcripts Request Form
- Official high school transcript
Financial Aid
Tuition payment plans, scholarships, loans
What’s unique about the program
Liberty University’s Special Education online program is highly recommended for Christian students who plan to homeschool their children. The degree program equips students not for licensure purposes but for careers as paraprofessionals, homeschool instructors, and tutors.
University of Wisconsin-Stout
The University of Wisconsin-Stout applies career-concentrated strategies for post-secondary education as it seeks to help busy working adults who want to experience professional career growth.
UStout offers the Bachelor of Science in Special Education online degree program. It equips students with advanced instructional approaches for children, adolescents, and adults between 5 to 21 years of age.
The program curriculum provides students with cross-categorical abilities required for optimum career growth and flexibility. It prepares students for the many facets of individual education development, transition, and approaches. Students work with families and support services for evaluation.
Location
Menomonie, Wisconsin
Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Program Features
- free writing labs and online tutorials
- coursework includes classes in ethnic and racial studies (intern and student teaching opportunities)
- support and counseling from competent faculty
- field placements
- focused teaching from kindergarten to adult (ages 5-21)
- total of 120 credits required for completion (76 credits of Major Studies and 44 credits of General Studies)
Course Options
- Cognitive Disabilities
- Emotional Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities
- Behavioral Disabilities
Admission
- At least 2.75 or above as a cumulative high school GPA
- ACT or SAT test result
Financial Aid
Teaching grants, loans, scholarships, student employment
What’s unique about the program
Despite being a rural-based academic institution, the online degree program of the University of Wisconsin-Stout is considered one of the best in the United States. Its faculty system operates on an entirely tenure-track or full-time tenured nature.
Dakota State University
Dakota State University’s online learning instruction is characterized by advanced technological specialization.
The university holds one of the most effective online special education degrees through its Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in Elementary Education/Special Education.
The goal of this degree program is to help students become successful in classroom setups that merge regular and special learners. Graduates are able to work in special education schools and elementary schools and may contribute towards the improvement of Title I and K-12 technology teaching.
Location
Madison, South Dakota
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- 140 to 142 total credit hours are required for completion
- students in the capstone project can apply their knowledge to traditional classroom settings
- well-experienced educators
- two-semester teaching residency
- course option flexibility
Course Options
- K-12 Technology Teaching
- Elementary Education
- Cognitive Disabilities
- Intellectual Disabilities
- Autism
- Learning Disabilities
Admission
- ACT score composite score of 18 and above
- Subscore of 870 or above on the SAT Reasoning Test Math and Critical Reading
- Cumulative GPA of 2.6 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
- should belong to the upper 60% of the high school graduating class
Financial Aid
Scholarships, grants
What’s unique about the program
Graduates have the privilege of receiving an educational technology endorsement, which reflects the university’s dedication toward sufficient preparation for the use of instructional and pedagogical technologies.
This allows graduates to be eligible to teach Computer Science to elementary, middle school, and secondary students. Moreover, DSU online enables you to select between a K-8 or K-12 setup for the completion of student teaching.
University of Georgia
The University of Georgia offers the Bachelor of Science in Special Education degree program under the College of Education Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education.
The curriculum mainly focuses on the teaching of reading to individuals with learning disabilities, behavioral management, and assistive and learning technologies.
The program serves as a combined degree completion and certification program. It is also most appropriate for students who want to earn a certification in Special Education General Curriculum for pre-Kinder to Grade 12 in Georgia.
The program’s main concentration is on mild to moderate learning and cognitive disabilities.
Location
Athens, Georgia
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- All coursework is completed online
- Two campus visits are required (for program orientation and student teaching workshop)
- Complete field experiences in Georgia Pre-12 schools per semester
- All coursework begins during the fall
- Comprehensive hands-on training (3 required practicums and student teaching)
- Student-focused faculty
Course Options
- Social Psychology of Schools
- Assistive and Learning Technologies
- Survey of Special Education
- Contemporary Issues in Special Education
- Designing Reading Interventions for Special Education
- Student Teaching in Special Education
Admission
- Completed GACE Educator Ethics Entry Assessment
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8
- Completion of 60 transferrable college credit hours
- Completion of all core areas
- Completed Special Education Online Program Readiness Check
- $60 nonrefundable application fee
- Official Transcripts
Financial Aid
Corporate or military assistance, scholarships, grants, loans
What’s unique about the program
The degree program, which enables students to earn a teacher certification in Georgia, seeks to meet the shortage of special educators in the state. Students are required to visit the campus for orientation and interaction with other special students.
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University is considered one of the academic institutions that have offered online bachelor’s degree programs since 2003.
It takes pride in its Bachelor of Science in Special Education minor in Special Education (Early Childhood and Adapted Curriculum), which prepares students for high-quality academic instruction focusing on the developmental enhancement of special children.
The degree program also allows students to obtain a Virginia teaching license in terms of two types of endorsements, namely Early Childhood Special Education and Special Education Adapted Curriculum K-12 for Severe Disabilities.
Location
Norfolk, Virginia
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- regular online class schedules
- accessible online resources
- internship or practicum is required
- 40-41 credit hours required for completion (major) plus 49 credit hours (professional education/practicum)
- Upper-division (300 and 400 level courses) required for completion
Course Options
- Behavior Management
- Fundamentals of Human Growth and Development
- Collaboration and Transitions
- Assistive Technology for Diverse Students
- Foundations of Special Education
Admission
- Official High School or GED transcript
- Official ACT or SAT scores
- 1-3 Letters of Recommendation
- maximum of 400 words Essay
- Dual Enrollment Transcript
- AP test scores
Financial Aid
Scholarships, work-study program, TEACH grant, and student loans
What’s unique about the program
The advanced technologies that ODU Online utilizes for online instruction deliver a competent distance learning experience for effective learning. The university is also famous for its efficient academic strategies, initiatives, and practices, especially for students with military experience.
Credit transfer is also allowed through ODU’s partnership with the Virginia Community College System.
Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University (FHSU) has a wide range of alternatives for students who wish to pursue online Special Education degrees. Students have two main choices: a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Special Education or a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education. The coursework is geared toward gifted students and students who have special needs and disabilities.
Location
Hays, Kansas
Accreditation
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Program Features
- 126 total credit hours for completion (early childhood education)
- 127 total credit hours (elementary education)
- Total of 21 credit hours of special education courses are required to pursue the minor
- Required internship and student teaching initiative (early childhood education major)
- The physical placement and hands-on experiences (elementary education)
- Competent distance-learning faculty and staff
Course Options
- Behavioral Strategies
- Classroom Management
- Technology and Procedures
- Student Assessment
- Technology Applications in Special Education
- Educating Exceptional Students
Admission
- Cumulative GPA (minimum of 2.75)
- ACT, PPST, or Core exam results
- Minimum of 36 hours of General Education credits (Grade of C)
Financial Aid
Scholarships and Contiguous State Resident Tuition Program
What’s unique about the program
FHSU boasts high acceptance rates for higher degree programs and licensure exams in Special Education.
Mayville State University
Mayville State University (MSU) extends to students outside the state through its extensive online education program that is hailed as one of the best in academic online learning.
The university offers a cost-efficient online Bachelor of Science in Education degree program with a specialization in Special Education.
Graduates take a licensure exam under the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education.
Location
Mayville, North Dakota
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- teaching internship is required
- curriculum composed of research, theory, and student teaching
- 124 credit hours are required for completion
Course Options
- Secondary Special Education
- Early Childhood Special Education
- Elementary Special Education
Admission
- Cumulative high school grade average (at least 2.0)
- ACT composite score (at least 18) or SAT equivalent
- completion of College Prep Core requirements: English, Mathematics (Algebra I and above), Laboratory Science, Social Studies
Financial Aid
SMART Grant, TEACH grant, work-study, loans, scholarships
What’s unique about the program
Mayville State University boasts a double major program for students who wish to complete other education major courses on other campuses. The Bachelor of Science in Education major in Special Education can be earned along with courses in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.
The university also accepts transfer credits from accredited schools in the region, such as North Dakota, Arizona, Washington, and Wyoming.
Stephen F. Austin State University
The Stephen F. Austin (SFA) State University online bachelor’s degree programs are known to be one of the most technologically advanced, flexible, and high-quality programs in Texas. The university offers an online Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (BSIS) with a concentration in Special Education under the Department of Elementary Education.
The degree program also prepares students to pursue EC-12 special education teacher certification effectively to handle children with learning and behavioral disabilities.
Location
Nacogdoches, Texas
Accreditation
National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
Program Features
- all coursework is completed online (spring and fall semesters only)
- flexible course schedule for working students (3 to 12 credits per semester)
- requited full-time student teaching in a classroom (1 semester)
Course Options
- Educational Programming for Autistic Students
- Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities
- Functional Living Skills for Individuals with Disabilities
- Survey of Exceptionalities
- Educational Appraisal of Exceptional Children
- Introduction to Applied Behavioral Analysis
- Academic Instruction for Persons with Disabilities
- Early Childhood Special Education
Admissions
- students should belong to the top 20% of the class
- High school official transcripts
- ACT or SAT test results
- extra-curricular leadership activities
- completion of at least 45 credit hours from a community college
Financial Aid
TEACH grants, scholarships, loans
What’s unique about the program
Paraprofessionals in the state of Texas can earn a teaching certificate while working in their classrooms and schools through the BSIS online program.
Central Methodist University
With CMU’s Special Education major, you’ll get exactly what you’re looking for. In addition to developing the vital skills employers seek, you’ll become confident in teaching special education. Teaching methods, mind development, and special education instruction are the focus of the Special Education major.
As a student, you’ll learn to recognize and evaluate developmental behavior and understand the needs of those who require special accommodations. Having the ability and training to address the needs of an individual will make you feel confident in your abilities as a SPED teacher.
Location
- Fayette, Missouri
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
Program Features
- 124 credits are required for completion
Course Options
- Foundations of Education
- Children’s Literature
- Methods of Teaching Mathematics in Elementary/Middle School
- Diagnostic & Prescriptive Procedures
- Counseling in Special Education
Admissions
- GPA of 2.5
- Online Application form
Financial Aid
- Scholarships
- Financial assistance
- Book vouchers
What’s Unique About The Program
- What’s good about this program is that you can work on projects, observe in the field, and do internships.
University of West Florida
The University of West Florida’s online bachelor’s degree in Special Education is a fully accredited program designed to prepare teachers to set high learning expectations for their students and cater to diverse, individualized learning needs.
A Professional Florida Educator’s Certificate in Exceptional Student Education (K–12) and Elementary Education (K–6) can be granted upon completion of this program.
As a Florida Department of Education-approved specialization, Exceptional Student and Elementary Education prepares students for direct state certification in Exceptional Student Education (K12) and Elementary Education (K6) with ESOL and Reading Endorsements. Before student teaching, students must pass FDOE exams.
Location
- Pensacola, Florida
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Program Features
- 132 credits are required for completion
Course Options
- Integrated Arts and Contemporary Educational Tools
- Methods in Inclusion and Collaboration
- Personal, Social, and Employment Skills
- Literacy for the Emergent Learner
- Teaching Mathematics in the Elementary School
Admissions
- Official Transcripts
- ACT or SAT scores
- $30 application fee
Financial Aid
- Loans
- Grants
- Scholarships
- Work Study
What’s Unique About the Program
- You can pursue various careers in education once you have completed our online special education degree program. As a result of licensure and certification, there will be more opportunities and better pay.
Colorado Christian University
Students with special learning needs benefit from the guidance and support of the special education generalist across multiple levels of instruction.
The generalist is a good problem solver who asks questions, continuously reflects on and adjusts their practice, believes that all students can learn, is committed to individualization, and is a good problem solver.
The special education degree programs offered online by CCU are based on a Christian worldview. Special education courses will help prepare dedicated educators for careers in the field. In small classes, students can learn independently and network with professionals, and instructors have direct access to students.
Location
- Lakewood, Colorado
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
Program Features
- 120 credits required
Course Options
- Classic Christmas Films & Literature
- Creative Arts
- Arts Appreciation
- World Views
- Adult Studies Seminar
Admissions
- Online application
- High School Diploma
Financial Aid
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Education Loans
What’s Unique About the Program
- If a CCU education licensure program is completed, the university will recommend licensure to the Colorado Department of Education (CDE).
St. Andrews University
Students in the Special Education degree program at St. Andrews are prepared to teach children with mild disabilities using the General K-12 Curriculum. For any education major or licensure-only candidate, the program also offers an option to earn an additional certification in Gifted Education through additional courses.
Pre-service teachers in Special Education aim to acquire knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences for students with special needs in special education and general education settings.
To qualify for a position in Special Education, pre-service teachers must demonstrate the ability to guide students toward higher cognitive stages.
Location
- Laurinburg, North Carolina
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
Program Features
- 120 credit hours required
Course Options
- Child and Adolescent Development
- The Exceptional Child
- Education, Culture & Diversity
- Technology for Educators
Admissions
- GPA of 2.5
- Recommendations
- Program application
- Interview
Financial Aid
- Military Benefits
- Work Study
- Scholarships
What’s Unique About The Program
- Practicums, field experiences, and community events relating to students with disabilities will be conducted for pre-service teachers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do employees make with an online Bachelor’s in Special Education?
As of May 2022, the country’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the graduates of special education bachelor’s programs earned an average salary of $62,950 per year. The salary potential of a job depends on its position, the employer, its location, and its level of experience.
Aside from the education sector, you can find other jobs, such as a reading specialist, who earns $53,646 per year, or a school counselor, who earns an average of $65,097 annually. The key is to explore the best career that can fit your needs and salary preferences.
What’s waiting for Online Bachelor’s in Special Education graduates?
Special education teachers are among the most common careers for graduates. Students with disabilities may be taught by these teachers in their classrooms, with IEPs developed for each student individually.
Some work in traditional classrooms, integrating children with their peers and adapting learning formats. Public school teachers must pass their state’s teaching licensing exam and complete student teaching experiences.
As well as working for government agencies, nonprofits, student support services, and independent operators, special education degree holders can also work for private companies.
They may assist parents in navigating the available options for their children if they are employed in these positions.
How long does it take to finish online a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education?
Your schedule, as well as your full-time or part-time enrollment, may influence how long it takes to complete a Special Education bachelor’s degree online.
You may complete your program in about four years if you attend a university that offers traditional 16-week semesters. Online programs at some colleges run on an 8-week semester schedule.
With full-time enrollment year-round, you may complete your degree in less time. You may enroll part-time to balance your work and family commitments and earn your degree at the same time.
However, if you take this route, you may need more time to complete the program.
Additional Resources: