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

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

What can I expect from an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education degree program?

An accelerated online Ed.S degree in Special Education program prepares professionals for advanced roles in special education through a flexible, fast-paced curriculum. 

• Coursework emphasizes research-based strategies, policy, advocacy, and instructional leadership for diverse student needs.
• Programs often include practical components such as capstone projects or clinical experiences to apply theory in real-world settings. 
• Delivered fully online, these programs provide accessibility and flexibility for working educators, featuring short, intensive courses and opportunities for interaction with experienced faculty through virtual platforms. 
• Given the fast pace of this program, students must expect an intensive study schedule. This will help them quickly gain the expertise needed to advance inclusive education.
• Graduates gain expertise to lead, coordinate, or administer special education services, making this degree particularly suitable for educators seeking to advance their careers without a lengthy time commitment. 

Where can I work with an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education degree?

Graduates with an accelerated online Ed.S degree in Special Education are highly sought after in a variety of educational settings and related fields. 

• Public and Private K-12 School Districts. Fill critical roles in supporting students with disabilities. Beyond direct instruction, they also provide training and guidance to general education teachers on inclusive practices.
• Specialized Learning Centers and Private Practices. Offer focused interventions for students with unique learning profiles. 
• Residential Care Facilities or Hospitals. Provide educational services to children and adolescents with complex needs. 
• Educational Consulting Firms. Advise schools and families on best practices in special education. 
• Assistive Technology Industry. Help integrate adaptive tools and software to enhance learning for students with disabilities.

Outside of traditional schools, Ed.S graduates can work in state and federal education agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private education companies that specialize in special education services.

How much can I make with an accelerated online Education Specialist in Special Education degree?

Graduates with an accelerated online Ed.S degree in Special Education typically earn competitive salaries reflecting their advanced expertise and leadership roles in education.

To give you an idea of how much you can make in this profession, here are some estimates for certain roles related to this career path. 

• According to 2024 salary data from the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the annual mean wage for special education teachers ranges from about $70,000 to $75,000. 
• More specialized or senior positions, such as Education Specialists or Directors, can expect salaries reaching even higher compensation.
• Most Education and Childcare Administrators earned between $77,000 and $131,000. 
• Instructional Coordinators made salaries ranging from about $74,000 to $115,000. 

The last three roles often involve program management, policy implementation, and instructional leadership, justifying the higher salary compared to typical special education teachers.

List of Fastest Online Ed.S in Special Education Programs for 2025 

Advance your expertise in just months—not years—with streamlined Ed.S pathways that combine intensive practicums, cohort collaboration, and continuous enrollment. Our List of Fastest Online Ed.S in Special Education Programs for 2025 highlights accelerated curricula designed to rival the speed and flexibility of the fastest addiction psychology degree online.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University (AKU) offers a fully online Ed.S in Educational Leadership, Special Education Director accelerated pathway to prepare special education teachers for district‑level leadership. It is ideal for educators seeking timely advancement, with a flexible schedule, a state-approved internship, and a course for those who are interested in an Arkansas teaching license.

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Advance Perspective track; Professional Practice track
• Cost per Credit: AKU provides an estimate of $11,220 for the total tuition
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)

2. Liberty University

Liberty University (LU) has a fully online Ed.S in Special Education with a fast‑paced format, eight‑week courses, and multiple annual start dates. Enrollees can transfer up to 50% of credits, and the program feeds into an Ed.D. pathway, making it ideal for educators who want to advance into leadership roles quickly.

• Program Length: Approximately 12 to 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Ed.S in Special Education
• Cost per Credit: $610 per credit 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. National University

National University (NU) offers a fully online Ed.S program with year-round enrollment, generous transfer credit options, and no dissertation requirement. Students can specialize by taking six specialization elective courses in Special Education. The curriculum also includes two research courses and a capstone course. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Ed.S in Special Education 
• Cost per Credit: NU provides an estimate of $6,465 for the total tuition per year 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) 

4. Walden University

Walden University has an Ed.S in Special Education program that is offered fully online and with flexible pacing. According to the school, the program curriculum is informed by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)’s Professional Preparation Standards, and it includes an ePortfolio and a final capstone project focused on real‑world practice. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months 
• Tracks/concentrations: Ed.S in Special Education
• Cost per Credit: $670 per quarter hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45 quarter credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. American College of Education

American College of Education (ACE) offers an online Ed.S in Special Education program with multiple start dates, free tutoring, and 24/7 student support services. The curriculum equips practitioners with advanced knowledge and skills on topics like strategies and methods for reading intervention, trends and issues in special education, and exploring the autism spectrum. 

• Program Length: Approximately 18 months 
• Tracks/concentrations: Ed.S in Special Education
• Cost per Credit: $306 
• Required Credits to Graduate: 34 
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

How long does it take to complete an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education program?

Accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education programs are designed for efficiency, allowing busy professionals to advance their education relatively quickly.

While the exact duration can vary by institution and program structure, most accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education programs can be completed in 18 months to two years.

Some highly intensive programs may even allow completion in as little as one year, though this typically involves a very rigorous full-time study schedule.

The "accelerated" aspect often comes from a streamlined curriculum, condensed course formats, and multiple start dates throughout the year, allowing students to progress continuously without lengthy breaks.

The number of credit hours required for an Ed.S typically ranges from 30 to 36, which contributes to the quicker completion time compared to a doctoral program—akin to the rapid progression seen in fastest online MSN pediatric nurse practitioner programs.

How does an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education degree compare to a traditional program?

An accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education program offers the same rigorous curriculum and credentials as a traditional program but in a shorter, more flexible format.

While traditional Ed.S programs often take two to three years, accelerated online options can be completed in one to 1.5 years, allowing educators to advance their careers more quickly.

Classes in fast-track Ed.S programs also usually follow shorter terms, such as seven or eight weeks instead of traditional 16-week semesters.

The online format adds convenience, especially for working professionals, by offering asynchronous classes, year-round start dates, and the ability to study from anywhere. However, the pace is often more intensive, requiring strong time management. 

Academically, both program types meet the same licensure, certification, and accreditation standards, making them equally respected by employers and licensing boards. The key difference lies in delivery speed, flexibility, and accessibility.

Luckily, more graduate degree programs today, whether online or traditional, recognize that offering alternative and flexible pathways, such as accelerated tracks, can widen their market for potential enrollees. 

There are now more options for individuals who aspire to attain advanced educational credentials and increase their economic opportunities.

Current enrollment trends in graduate programs show that the changes in accessibility to different levels of advanced degrees have affected intergenerational inequalities in higher education. 

Furthermore, Spring 20205 enrollment data from the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) Research Center shows that graduate enrollment increased by 1.5% from Spring 2024. 

What is the average cost of an accelerated Ed.S in Special Education program?

The average cost of an accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education program can vary significantly depending on the institution, the total number of credit hours, and whether you qualify for in-state or out-of-state tuition rates.

Based on our research for this guide, you can expect the total tuition for an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education to range from approximately $10,000 to $30,000 or more.

Some institutions, such as Arkansas State University, offer programs with total tuition costs around the $11,000 to $13,000 range. The particularly larger universities might fall closer to the $20,000 to $30,000 plus mark.

It is important to look at the cost per credit hour, which can range anywhere from $220 to over $600. The programs we included in our list fall within this price range.

Since Ed.S programs typically require 30 to 36 credit hours, and some schools accept transfer credits, this per-credit cost significantly impacts the overall tuition.

Beyond tuition, remember to factor in other potential costs such as:

• Fees. Application fees, technology fees, resource fees, and graduation fees can add to the total.
• Books and Materials. While some online programs include e-books or resources, others may require you to purchase them separately.
• Certification/Licensure Fees. After graduation, there will be costs associated with applying for any required state-specific certifications or licenses.

Some universities offer tuition caps or flat-rate tuition per term, which can help make costs more predictable. I highly recommend researching the financial aid options and payment plans offered by each program you consider to get an accurate cost estimate. You can also look into low cost online EdS programs in leadership with special education tracks. 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education program?

Financing an accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education is a key consideration for prospective students. Fortunately, a variety of financial aid options are available to help offset the costs.

• Federal Grad PLUS Loans. These federal loans help graduate students cover education costs not met by other aid. They require a credit check but not financial need. Borrowers can receive up to the cost of attendance minus other aid.
• Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. Available to online Ed.S students willing to commit to teaching in a high-need field, including special education, for four years post-graduation.
• American Council on Rural Special Education (ACRES) Scholarship. A $1,000 scholarship is available to currently or recently employed as a certified teacher in a rural school district, working either in special education or "retooling" from regular to special education. 
• John A. Tooley Scholarship for Developmental Disabilities. Awarded to undergrad and grad students from Wayne County, Ohio, studying special education or developmental disabilities and committed to serving individuals with disabilities.
• University-Specific and Departmental Scholarships. Many universities offer scholarships through their financial aid offices or education departments, often merit-based, need-based, or specific to special education graduate students.
• Professional Organizations. Organizations like the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) or the National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) may offer or list scholarships for aspiring special education professionals.

You can maximize support by combining federal aid with targeted scholarships—much like students in best online CompTIA Security+ training bootcamps programs leverage specialized funding to reduce costs.

I also suggest taking advantage of several sources of financial aid to further minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Even smaller scholarships can significantly reduce your overall financial burden. 

Data from the College Board reveals that graduate students received an average of $28,420 in student aid from grants, federal loans, and other sources in 2023-2024. The chart below provides more information. 

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education program?

Enrolling in the fastest online Ed.S. in Special Education typically requires meeting rigorous academic and professional prerequisites. These ensure students have the foundational knowledge and experience needed to succeed in a fast-paced, graduate-level program and advanced roles of special education teachers.

• Master’s Degree in Education or a Related Field. Most Ed.S programs require a completed master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. This degree is usually in education, special education, or a closely related field.
• Valid Teaching License. Many programs require applicants to hold a current teaching license, especially in special education or a related area. Some programs may allow provisional admission for educators working toward licensure.
• Professional Teaching Experience. Applicants are often expected to have at least two to three years of teaching experience, preferably working with students with disabilities or in inclusive classroom settings.
• Minimum GPA. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on graduate-level coursework is commonly required, though some programs may consider lower GPAs with additional qualifications or experience.
• Additional Requirements. Requirements may include letters of recommendation, a personal statement, résumé or CV, background checks for practicum programs, and occasionally GRE scores—though these are rarely needed for online programs.

Some programs may offer conditional admission for applicants who do not meet all criteria but demonstrate strong potential.

What courses are typically in an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education program?

Accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills beyond a master's degree, preparing educators for leadership and specialized roles.

While specific course titles and emphasis may vary slightly by institution, the core curriculum typically covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for supporting students with diverse learning needs.

Here are the types of courses you can typically expect in such a program:

• Foundations of Special Education. These courses cover the historical, legal, and philosophical foundations of special education, including key laws like IDEA and Section 504, along with ethical and cultural considerations.
• Assessment and Diagnosis. These courses teach you how to administer, interpret, and utilize a variety of formal and informal assessments. Learners study data-driven decision-making, the process of developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and methods for reducing bias in assessment.
• Advanced Instructional Strategies. These courses cover evidence-based strategies for teaching students with disabilities, including differentiated instruction, UDL, and specialized methods for reading, writing, and math.
• Behavioral Intervention and Classroom Management. These courses cover various behavior management techniques, positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), functional behavior assessments (FBAs), and the development of behavior intervention plans (BIPs). 
• Collaboration and Communication. Effective special education relies heavily on collaboration. These courses emphasize building strong partnerships with families, general education teachers, related service providers, and community agencies. 
• Research Methods and Applied Inquiry. Many Ed.S. programs include coursework in research and data analysis, covering methodologies, interpreting findings, and applying them to enhance educational practice.
• Capstone or Practicum. Most programs include a capstone or practicum, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings, such as supporting special education directors or coordinating services across schools.
• Specialized Areas/Concentrations. Some programs offer specializations in areas like Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning and Behavior Disorders, Assistive Technology, or Early Childhood Special Education.

What are the licensure implications of an online Ed.S vs. on-campus program?

Online and on-campus Ed.S programs typically offer the same licensure outcomes if they are properly accredited and approved by the state for licensure preparation. You may qualify for several advanced licensure and endorsement options.

However, some states may have specific fieldwork, residency, or in-state practicum requirements, so it is essential to confirm that the online program aligns with your state’s licensure standards.

Here are the types of licenses, certifications, and endorsements you can typically pursue or enhance with an Ed.S in Special Education:

• Special Education Administrator License. Allows you to serve as a district-level or school-based administrator overseeing special education services and compliance.
• Director of Special Education License. Required in many states for professionals managing special education departments at the district or regional level.
• Supervisor of Special Education Endorsement. Authorizes you to supervise special education teachers and programs without holding a full principal or administrator license.
• Educational Leadership/Principal Licensure. In some Ed.S programs with a leadership focus, you can earn eligibility for general school administrator or principal roles.
• Specialist Endorsements. These can be in areas like Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders, and Intellectual Disabilities. 

Pursuing these roles can give you a competitive edge—similar to how graduates of best associate of science in nursing online programs meet licensure requirements and advance their clinical careers.

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 72% of public schools had difficulty finding fully certified teachers to fill vacancies in special education for SY 2024-2025. 

Furthermore, 53% of public schools had too few candidates applying for non-teaching positions. 

How to choose the best fast-track online Ed.S in Special Education degree program? 

Choosing the best fast-track online Ed.S degree in special education program requires a careful approach, particularly focusing on features that enable quicker completion, career advancement, and professional recognition.

Beyond general factors like cost, accreditation, and curriculum, consider the following specific aspects crucial for an accelerated online program:

Generous Transfer Credit Policies

Look for universities that explicitly state generous transfer credit policies. Some institutions may allow transfer of up to 50% of the required credits for an Ed.S degree. 

Flexible Course Delivery and Scheduling

Opt for programs that offer asynchronous classes, multiple start dates per year, or short-term course blocks. These features allow you to move through the curriculum faster and balance work and personal commitments more easily. 

Alternative Pathways to Completion

Some programs offer credit for prior learning, professional experience, or portfolio assessments—methods that can accelerate your progress without sacrificing academic rigor.

Look for schools that provide practicum substitutions or capstone options instead of traditional theses.

Preparation for Licensure or Further Graduate Study

Ensure the program aligns with state certification requirements if your goal is licensure. Also, choose a program with a strong academic foundation if you plan to pursue a doctoral degree later, such as an Ed.D, DBA, or PhD.

Get to know more about these advanced programs by checking what is the difference between DBA and EdD.

Academic Support and Student Services

Strong online programs offer academic advising, career support, licensure guidance, and technical assistance. Access to faculty and flexible scheduling support are especially valuable in accelerated formats.

Is the Accelerated Online Ed.S in Special Education a Cost-Effective Investment?

Accelerated online Ed.S programs are structured to provide advanced qualifications efficiently, often resulting in lower overall tuition costs and faster completion times compared to traditional doctoral pathways. This efficiency can translate into earlier career advancement and increased earning potential. In evaluating cost-effectiveness, consider not only tuition and additional fees but also the reduced opportunity cost of completing the degree quickly. For professionals weighing advanced degree options, these accelerated programs often offer a strategic alternative to more time-intensive solutions such as the quickest online EdD degree, delivering comparable specialized training with a faster payoff.

What career paths are available for graduates of accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education programs?

Graduates of accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education programs are well-prepared for advanced roles in education that go beyond the classroom. These programs equip professionals with leadership, administrative, and specialized instructional skills, opening the door to a variety of impactful career paths.

• Special Education Director or Supervisor. Oversees special education programs at the school or district level, ensuring compliance with laws and managing services for students with disabilities.
• Instructional Coordinator or Curriculum Specialist. Develops, implements, and evaluates special education curricula, providing training and support to teachers and staff.
• Special Education Administrator. Holds leadership roles in schools, districts, or educational agencies, managing budgets, staffing, and policy implementation specific to special education services.
• Behavior Intervention Specialist or Consultant. Designs and implements behavioral support plans for students with emotional or behavioral disorders, often collaborating with IEP teams and psychologists. Learn more about this career path through online ABA certification programs.
• Transition Coordinator. Helps students with disabilities prepare for post-secondary life, including employment, independent living, and further education.
• Postsecondary Instructor. Teaches future educators or paraprofessionals in special education topics, especially in community college or professional development settings.
• Educational Consultant or Advocate. Works independently or with organizations to support schools, families, and districts in developing and implementing effective special education services and IEPs.
• Educational Diagnostician. Conducts comprehensive assessments to identify students' learning and developmental disabilities. 
• Early Intervention Specialist. Provides early intervention services and assesses child development. This path tends to require pursuing ASHA online SLP programs or similar training focusing on specific developmental delays.

These career paths show that an Ed.S. in Special Education is a valuable credential for advancing into leadership, support, and administrative roles. This will enable you to make a broader impact on the lives of students with disabilities. 

Certain Education Specialist roles also open doors for higher earnings, sometimes putting these experts on the same salary range as school principal salary figures.

To give you a more detailed picture, here are the annual mean wages of certain jobs that graduates of special education Ed.S programs can pursue: 

What is the job market for graduates with an accelerated online Ed.S in Special Education degree?

In 2022-2023, 15% of all public school students aged three to 21 in the United States received special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

With this in mind, the job market for graduates with an accelerated online Ed.S degree in special education is generally strong, particularly for those in leadership, administrative, and specialized roles. 

• Employment trends from O*NET OnLine show 5,100 projected annual job openings in 2023-2033 for Educational and Childcare Administrators in Preschool and Daycare. 
• Employment trends from O*NET OnLine show 5,100 projected annual job openings in 2023-2033 for Educational and Childcare Administrators in Preschool and Daycare.
• For Educational Administrators in Kindergarten through Secondary Schools, it is 20,800 job openings each year.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 35,900 openings for special education teachers each year from 2023 to 2033.

Furthermore, while many schools saw improvements in filling non-teaching staff positions like instructional coach and academic interventionist, 69% of public schools reported difficulty in hiring for one or more of these jobs. 

To give a clearer picture of hiring opportunities for Ed.S special education graduates, here is additional information from NCES on the percentage of vacancies filled in relevant roles for A.Y. 2024-2025. 

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About the Fastest Online Ed.S Programs in Special Education

Other Things You Need to Know About Accelerated Online Ed.S in Special Education Degrees

Who should pursue an Ed.S in Special Education instead of an Ed.D or PhD?

An Ed.S in Special Education is ideal for educators seeking advanced leadership or specialized roles without the dissertation commitment of a doctorate. It is perfect for current teachers or administrators aiming for positions like special education coordinator, diagnostician, or instructional specialist, offering quicker career advancement and increased earning potential. 

How do you verify if an online Ed.S in Special Education program is accredited?

To verify if an online Ed.S in Special Education program is accredited, check the school’s website for regional accreditation and program-specific accreditation like CAEP. You can also confirm accreditation status through the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions.

Do you need an Ed.S to become a licensed special education administrator?

An Ed.S is not universally required to become a licensed special education administrator, but it is often the preferred and most direct pathway. Many states accept a master's degree in educational leadership or special education administration.

However, an Ed.S provides specialized training and advanced credentials specifically designed for these roles, making graduates highly competitive and well-prepared. Always check your specific state's licensure requirements.

How do online Ed.S students collaborate or engage with faculty?

Online Ed.S students engage with faculty through video conferencing, discussion boards, email, and virtual office hours. Many programs also incorporate group projects, real-time webinars, and personalized feedback to foster collaboration.

These tools create meaningful interaction, ensuring students receive mentorship and support comparable to traditional, on-campus learning environments.