Best Online Ed.S Degree in Special Education Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

An online Ed.S. in Special Education equips you with advanced strategies for supporting students with diverse needs, focusing on leadership and evidence-based interventions. Expect in-depth coursework on individualized education plans (IEPs), behavior management, and assistive technology, all delivered via interactive digital platforms. You’ll engage in virtual practicums, collaborate with peers nationwide, and emerge ready to lead special education initiatives in varied educational settings.

Where can I work with an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Graduates with an Ed.S. in Special Education are prepared for roles across K–12 schools, district leadership, and specialized educational settings. Many serve as master teachers, program coordinators, or instructional coaches, driving curriculum design and compliance with IDEA mandates.

Top-employing industries:

• Elementary and Secondary Schools: 88,660 employed
• Other Schools and Instruction: 40 employer

Top states for employment:

• Texas: 8,470 employed
• New York: 7,780 employed
• California: 7,240 employed
• New Jersey: 7,240 employed
• Ohio: 6,230 employed

How much can I make with an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for special education teachers was $64,270 in May 2024. Salaries vary by role and setting, but Ed.S. graduates typically earn at the higher end of the spectrum.

• Zippia: $53,565 / year 
• Salary.com: $62,843 / year
• ZipRecruiter: $92,340 / year
• Indeed: $99,956 / year
• PayScale: $48,268 / year
• Glassdoor: $74,742 / year

Best Online Ed.S Degree in Special Education Programs for 2025

1. University of Florida – Online Ed.S. in Special Education (Teach Well)

University of Florida (UF) is a public land-grant research university in Gainesville, Florida. Founded in 1853, UF is the state’s flagship institution and is renowned for its high research activity and comprehensive academic programs. UF’s College of Education consistently ranks among the nation’s best and is known for pioneering online graduate education.

• Program cost: Approx. $449/credit (tuition only – additional fees may apply)
• Program duration: ~2 years (part-time)
• Total credits: 36 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP

2. University of West Georgia – Ed.S. in Special Education

University of West Georgia (UWG) is a public university in Carrollton, Georgia, part of the University System of Georgia. Established in 1906, UWG has grown into a comprehensive institution with about 14,000 students. It is known for strong teacher education programs and a commitment to serving adult learners through online degrees.

• Program cost: ~$321/credit (in-state eTuition)
• Program duration: Varies by student pace (typically 1–2 years)
• Total credits: 27 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Valdosta State University – Ed.S. in Special Education

Valdosta State University (VSU) is a public university in Valdosta, Georgia, founded in 1906. As one of Georgia’s regional universities, VSU is known for its focus on education, nursing, and the arts. It offers a supportive online learning environment with resources tailored for working educators.

• Program cost: All-inclusive tuition model – eTuition about $293/credit (includes materials, no extra fees)
• Program duration: Varies (students often complete in ~18–24 months part-time)
• Total credits: 30 credits beyond the master’s
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of the Cumberlands – Ed.S. in Special Education

University of the Cumberlands is a private Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Founded in 1888, it has a long history of teacher training and today enrolls over 20,000 students (largely online). The university is recognized for offering affordable, flexible graduate programs for educators.

• Program cost: $315/credit hour (30 hours max)
• Program duration: Just over 1 year (as few as 6 eight-week terms)
• Total credits: Varies (approx. 30 credits, depending on prior coursework)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Arkansas State University – Ed.S. in Educational Leadership (Special Education Director)

Arkansas State University (A-State) is a public research university in Jonesboro, Arkansas, founded in 1909. It’s the second-largest university in Arkansas and is known for strong programs in education and leadership. A-State has extended its reach with reputable online programs designed for working professionals.

• Program cost: starts at $11,220
• Program duration: As few as 18 months (accelerated format)
• Total credits: 33 credits
• Accreditation: HLC (institutional)

6. Kennesaw State University – Ed.S. in Special Education

Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a public research university in Georgia with campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta (metro Atlanta). Founded in 1963, KSU has grown into the third-largest university in Georgia with over 47,000 students. KSU’s Bagwell College of Education offers nationally recognized programs and innovative online degrees.

• Program cost: Approx. $530.00/credit (online tuition and student fees)
• Program duration: Varies (flexible pacing; many finish in ~2 years)
• Total credits: 27 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC (institutional)

7. Liberty University – Ed.S. in Special Education

Liberty University is a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia, founded in 1971. It has one of the largest enrollments in the U.S., primarily due to its extensive online programs. Liberty’s School of Education provides a faith-based curriculum with a wide array of resources for online students.

• Program cost: $390/Credit (Undergraduate Full Time), $455/Credit (Undergraduate Part Time); $250/Credit (Military Undergraduate)
• Program duration: ~1.5 years (accelerated 8-week courses)
• Total credits: 30 credit hours (non-licensure track)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC, CAEP

8. Northern Kentucky University – Ed.S. in Teaching and Leading – Learning & Behavior Disorders

Northern Kentucky University (NKU) is a public university in Highland Heights, Kentucky (near Cincinnati), established in 1968. NKU is the youngest of Kentucky’s public universities and is known for its innovative programs in education, informatics, and business. The College of Education at NKU emphasizes practical leadership skills for educators.

• Program cost: starts at $13,365
• Program duration: As few as 18 months (accelerated schedule)
• Total credits: 30 credits
• Accreditation: CAEP (program); SACSCOC (institutional)

9. National University – Ed.S. in Special Education

National University (NU) is a private non-profit university based in San Diego, California, founded in 1971. NU specializes in adult education and offers four-week classes year-round, making it a popular choice for working professionals. Its Sanford College of Education is one of the largest producers of teaching credentials in California.

• Program cost: Approx. $442/credit (WSCUC regionally accredited; tuition may include some fees)
• Program duration: ~18 months (accelerated online format)
• Total credits: 33 credits
• Accreditation: WSCUC

10. Pittsburg State University – Ed.S. in Special Education Leadership

Pittsburg State University (Pitt State) is a public university in Pittsburg, Kansas, founded in 1903. It began as a manual training school and has a strong legacy in teacher education and technology. Pitt State’s small size (~5,700 students) allows for personalized instruction and close mentorship, even in its online programs.

• Program cost: $410/credit (tuition; additional fees may be minimal)
• Program duration: 2–3 years (flexible part-time study)
• Total credits: 36 credits
• Accreditation: CAEP; HLC (institutional)

How long does it take to complete an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Completion time for a fully online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Special Education typically spans 12 to 24 months, depending on enrollment intensity and program structure. Full-time students often finish in about 12 months, taking two to three courses per term, while part-time learners may extend to 24 months to balance work and personal commitments. Programs require 27–36 credit hours, with most institutions offering multiple start dates each year to accommodate different schedules.

Factors influencing duration include prior coursework transfer (some schools allow up to 9–12 transferred credits), synchronous vs. asynchronous delivery, and capstone or practicum requirements. Accelerated formats—such as eight-week terms—can reduce time to degree, much like the shortest online AGPCNP graduate certificate programs, whereas cohort models may adhere to fixed academic calendars.

Before enrollment, verify each program’s credit load per term and any residency or practicum components that could extend your timeline. Planning with an academic advisor helps optimize pacing and ensures you meet both academic and licensure-related timelines while advancing your career efficiently.

How does an online Ed.S degree in special education compare to an on-campus program?

Choosing an online Ed.S. versus an on-campus counterpart involves weighing flexibility, cost, and learning environment. Fully online programs eliminate commuting and allow educators to access coursework from any location—ideal for working professionals who need asynchronous schedule.. On-campus programs, by contrast, provide face-to-face interaction, immediate access to campus facilities, and structured cohort experiences that can bolster peer networking and hands-on workshops.

Tuition for online Ed.S. programs sometimes undercuts on-campus rates by reducing campus fees and offering fixed “all-inclusive” pricing models. However, hybrid models may incur additional campus visit costs, which fully online degrees avoid. Student services—such as digital libraries, virtual tutoring, and online career centers—aim to mirror on-campus support, though some learners still prefer in-person mentorship and practicum supervision.

For educators seeking to build specialized skills like literacy intervention, combining an Ed.S. with online literacy programs can enhance instructional breadth in both content and delivery modes. Ultimately, the decision rests on personal learning preferences, scheduling needs, and the value placed on in-person versus virtual academic experiences.

This graphic highlights that 66 U.S. institutions now offer fully distance-learning degrees, illustrating the widespread availability of online Ed.S. programs. With so many options mirroring on-campus offerings, educators can choose a reputable, 100% online pathway that fits their schedules without sacrificing program quality.

What is the average cost of an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Online Ed.S. in Special Education programs’ tuition varies by institution control and residency status. According to CollegeTuitionCompare, the 2024–25 average graduate tuition & fees for Special Education and Teaching programs was $11,373 in-state and $20,024 out-of-state. A broader IPEDS analysis shows that graduate tuition & fees across U.S. colleges averaged $11,950 in-state and $20,678 out-of-state for 2023–24.

Special Education Ed.S. programs specifically tend to align closely with these figures, typically charging between $300 and $450 per credit, plus minimal technology or activity fees. For a 30-credit Ed.S. degree, this equates to approximately $9,000–$13,500 (in-state) or $12,000–$18,000 (out-of-state) in base tuition, before any additional mandatory fees. 

Many universities cap tuition with “all-inclusive” pricing models—bundling materials and support services—which can streamline cost estimates. Prospective students should verify whether published rates cover only tuition or also include fees like program assessments, graduation, or practicum supervision to plan their budgets accurately.

These salary figures put tuition investments into perspective: with average special education teacher earnings ranging from $66,600 to $67,190 annually, even higher practitioner roles can recoup program costs in just a few years. This underscores the long-term return on a $9,000–$18,000 Ed.S. investment.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Financing an Ed.S. in Special Education can involve multiple aid sources. Most graduate students receive some form of assistance:

• Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): 74% of graduate students received federal aid in 2019–20.
• Federal Direct Loans: Available to graduate students; average borrowing was $26,000 per graduate borrower.
• Graduate Assistantships: 12% of graduate students held assistantships, averaging $18,800 value.
• Scholarships & Fellowships: Offered by universities, professional associations (e.g., Council for Exceptional Children), and state departments
• Institutional Grants: 28% of undergraduates received institution aid; graduate-specific grants vary by school.
• State Aid & Tuition Waivers: Vary by state; some offer waivers for special education practitioners
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many K–12 districts and educational agencies reimburse advanced degree costs
• Federal TEACH Grants: Up to $4,000 per year for those committing to teach in high-need fields, including special education

Combining these options can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make advanced specialization more accessible.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Before embarking on an online Ed.S. in Special Education, most institutions require candidates to hold a master’s-level qualification and demonstrate strong academic and professional preparation:

• Master’s degree in Special Education or a related field (e.g., Curriculum & Instruction)
• Current teaching certificate or license in Special Education (K–12) or equivalent state credential
• Minimum graduate GPA of 3.0–3.2 on a 4.0 scale in prior master’s coursework
• Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions
• Statement of purpose or professional goals outlining your interest in advancing special education practice
• Letters of recommendation (typically 2–3) from academic or professional references
• Resume/CV demonstrating relevant teaching or related work experience
• Background clearance or fingerprinting, if required for practicum placements

These criteria ensure students have a solid foundation—both academically and licensure-wise—to benefit fully from advanced coursework. Many programs also expect familiarity with a degree in education to facilitate deeper engagement with pedagogical theory and practice .

What courses are typically in an online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Ed.S. curricula blend advanced theory, research, and practicum experiences. Common courses include:

• Advanced Behavior Management: Strategies for assessing and intervening in challenging behaviors.
• Legal Foundations & Policy in Special Education: In-depth study of IDEA, ADA, and state regulations.
• Research Methods & Data Analysis: Designing and interpreting applied research in special education.
• Assistive Technology for Inclusion: Tools and techniques to support diverse learners.
• Leadership & Program Development: Building and managing special education programs at the district level.
• Curriculum Design for Diverse Learners: Customizing instruction for individual needs.
• Collaboration & Consultation Models: Partnering with families, general educators, and related services.
• Practicum/Capstone Project: Culminating field experience or research project demonstrating applied expertise.

These courses equip candidates with leadership skills, legal and policy knowledge, and research competence necessary to drive evidence-based special education practice in schools and districts.

This chart highlights the top skills special education administrators list on their resumes—like IEP development (14.9%) and program leadership (37.3%)—underscoring why courses in behavior management, policy, and leadership are essential for building the competencies most in demand.

What types of specializations are available in an online Ed.S degree in special education programs?

Specialist-level degrees often let you tailor your studies to emerging needs and leadership roles. Common concentrations include:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Focuses on behavior intervention methods for autism and related disorders.
• Early Childhood Special Education: Prepares practitioners to support learners from birth to age 8; builds on an early childhood education online foundation.
• Educational Diagnostician: Emphasizes assessment techniques and eligibility determination under IDEA.
• Learning & Behavior Disorders: Equips teachers to design interventions for emotional and behavioral challenges.
• Assistive Technology: Covers tools and strategies that facilitate access for students with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities.
• Curriculum & Instruction Leadership: Focuses on program development, policy, and administration at district or state level.
• Autism Spectrum Support: Specializes in evidence-based practices for learners with ASD.
• Reading & Literacy Specialist: Centers on advanced literacy interventions; often paired with literacy master’s or Ed.S. study.
• Transition Services & Vocational Planning: Prepares specialists to help adolescents with disabilities transition to post-secondary education or employment.

These specializations align with national demand for targeted expertise and build directly on broader preparation in special education, allowing graduates to lead innovative programs and improve student outcomes.

This chart shows that specific learning disabilities account for 33.8% of identified cases, followed by speech/language impairments (17.96%) and other health impairments (16.55%). Understanding these prevalence patterns helps explain why Ed.S. specializations—like literacy, speech interventions, and behavior support—are so critical in practice.

How do you choose the best online Ed.S degree in special education program?

Selecting the right Ed.S. program requires careful comparison across several dimensions. Start by outlining your professional goals—whether you seek district leadership, specialized diagnostic roles, or advanced instructional expertise. Then consider these steps:

1. Verify Accreditation: Ensure the program and institution hold regional accreditation (e.g., SACSCOC, HLC) and any specialized accreditation like CAEP or CEC.
2. Compare Specializations: Match available concentrations (ABA, early childhood, reading) to your career trajectory and local licensure requirements.
3. Review Delivery Format: Confirm the program is 100% online with asynchronous and synchronous components that fit your schedule.
4. Assess Support Services: Look for strong financial aid offices, career counseling, and virtual library/tutoring resources.
5. Examine Practicum Options: Check if field experiences or capstones can be arranged near your location and how supervision is managed remotely.
6. Evaluate Cost & Aid: Compare total tuition (per credit), fees, and typical scholarship or loan packages, including any “all-inclusive” pricing models.
7. Investigate Reputation & Outcomes: Research program rankings, faculty expertise, and graduate job placement rates via NCES or College Scorecard.
8. Seek Peer Reviews: Read student testimonials and connect with alumni through professional networks to gauge real-world satisfaction.

By systematically evaluating these elements, you’ll select an online Ed.S. in Special Education that aligns with both your career goals and practical needs.

What accreditation standards should you consider for online Ed.S. programs?

Evaluating accreditation is essential to validate program quality and ensure eligibility for licensure and financial aid. Confirm that the institution holds regionally recognized accreditation and that its education division adheres to nationally accepted standards. Scrutinize external reviews, faculty qualifications, and curriculum alignment with industry benchmarks to guarantee rigorous academic preparation. Additionally, consider programs that offer accelerated pathways, similar to the fastest EdD online program, for educators seeking efficient degree completion.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online Ed.S degree in special education programs?

An Ed.S. in Special Education opens a clear advancement ladder in K–12 education and beyond. Graduates typically start in support roles and, with experience and promotion, move into leadership and administrative positions.

• Instructional Assistant / Paraprofessional: Provides one-on-one support under teacher supervision; often requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree .
• Special Education Teacher: Designs and delivers individualized instruction; median pay was $64,270 in May 2024.
• Lead Special Education Teacher / Mentor: Coaches peers, models best practices, and helps develop IEPs across grade levels.
• Special Education Coordinator: Oversees program compliance, trains staff, and liaises with parents and district offices.
• District-Level Specialist (e.g., Behavior Specialist, Diagnostician): Provides assessment services and district-wide intervention strategies.
• Director of Special Education: Manages all special education services district-wide, sets policies, and allocates budgets.
• State or Regional Consultant: Advises on statewide special education regulations, program development, and professional development.

Many graduates also transition into related fields such as curriculum development or postsecondary disability support. Combining an Ed.S. with an online elementary teaching degree can further enhance instructional leadership skills, especially in inclusive elementary settings.

This projection underscores emerging opportunities for Ed.S. graduates to transition into training roles: with a 4.8% CAGR in the special education teacher training market through 2030, demand for skilled trainers and facilitators is set to rise—making advanced credentials increasingly valuable for career growth.

What is the job market like for graduates of online Ed.S degree in special education programs?

The job market for Ed.S.-prepared special educators remains stable, with roughly 531,600 positions in 2023 and 35,900 annual openings driven by retirements and transfers. BLS projects little or no change (0% growth) in overall employment from 2023 to 2033, but demand for district-level specialists and administrators is increasing as schools expand services.

While classroom roles dominate, specialized positions in Educational Support Services (e.g., behavior clinics) saw higher wages—annual mean of $92,830.. Growth is particularly strong in K–12 districts with inclusive mandates and early intervention programs, which align with national priorities outlined in IDEA.

For professionals aiming beyond PK–12, combining an Ed.S. with an online Masters in Education can open roles in higher education, educational policy, or curriculum design. Regionally, California, Texas, and Florida lead in special education employment, reflecting large student populations and robust funding for support services.

Overall, Ed.S. graduates who leverage their advanced credentials in leadership, consultation, or specialized assessment stand to benefit in a competitive yet vital segment of the education workforce.

This data reveals the depth of the special education staffing crisis: 34% of public schools report being understaffed, and 72% struggle to fill roles with fully certified teachers. Such pervasive shortages underscore the urgent need for Ed.S.–trained leaders to strengthen and sustain special education programs.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Ed.S Degree in Special Education Program

Other Things You Should Know About Online Ed.S Degree in Special Education Programs

Can I transfer master’s credits into an Ed.S. program?

Many programs accept 9–12 graduate credits from your master’s degree toward the Ed.S. requirement. Transferred credits must match course content and typically require a B grade or higher. Verify transfer policies with each institution’s registrar or graduate admissions office before applying to streamline your path and reduce both time and cost to degree completion.

Is a teaching license required for admission?

Yes—most Ed.S. in Special Education programs require a valid K–12 special education teaching license. Some states allow conditional admission for those with expired licenses or alternative credentials, but full licensure ensures you can complete practicum requirements and meet federal IDEA standards for special education practitioners.

Are online Ed.S. degrees recognized for administration roles?

Absolutely. Accredited online Ed.S. degrees from regionally accredited institutions are fully accepted for district and state leadership positions, including Director of Special Education, Behavior Specialist, and Educational Diagnostician, provided you meet any additional state-specific certification or exam requirements.

How do practicum experiences work in an online program?

Online programs partner with local schools or agencies to arrange virtual and in-person practicum placements. You’ll receive supervision through a combination of remote coaching, video observations, and scheduled site visits. Coursework often includes detailed practicum guides to ensure compliance with state policies and quality mentoring.