Online Special Education (SPED) Degrees: Inside Top Programs

Choosing the Right Online Special Education Degree

If you’ve never worked as a teacher before, you will start your education at the undergraduate level. These degree programs provide the foundation to work with special education students, including students with autism. If you have experience already and want to sharpen your skills for higher-level roles, you’ll likely pursue a graduate degree. For administrative positions that require advanced leadership skills, graduate special education programs can prepare you to teach on the college level and conduct research.

Online Certificates

There are two types of online certificates: entry-level and graduate. Entry-level certifications are an option if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to get a foothold in the profession. Along with online coursework, you’ll also be required to complete an on-site supervised internship to gain valuable real-world experience. Graduate certificates typically require 18-21 credits and are a great option for special education teachers who want to add skills and advance their careers.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Certificate Program

Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University’s special education certificate program provides an accelerated route to a teaching license for those who already have education experience. By the end of the program, graduates can obtain an Arkansas K-12 Special Education Teaching License. The curriculum covers literacy, assessment, and diagnosis for exceptional learners; positive behavior interventions and supports; and literacy and language development for exceptional learners.

Associate Degrees

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in special education, online associate degree programs can be a great starting point on your journey to certification and licensure. These 60-hour programs offer a comprehensive overview of the field and give you the opportunity to determine whether this career path is right for you. After graduation, you’ll be qualified to take on roles as a teacher assistant, providing valuable support to teachers and students alike. Along the way, you’ll develop a range of core skills, including the ability to work with special education students, faculty, and parents. You will also become familiar with classroom management techniques and the special education curriculum.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Associate Degree Program

Northampton Community College

The special education associate degree program from Northampton Community College focuses on philosophies about disabilities, and the most effective, evidence-based practices for teaching students with these challenges. This program provides a strong foundation, so graduates can eventually go on to become special education teachers, interpreters for the hearing impaired, and special education administrators.

Bachelor’s Degrees

If you want to become a certified and licensed special education teacher, you should earn a bachelor’s degree, which requires 120 units of coursework. Classes cover a wide range of topics, including psychology (with a focus on behavior management), cultural studies, research-based student assessment, interventions, literacy, child development, assistive technology, and the creation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). You’ll build essential core skills preparing you to be an effective and compassionate special education teacher.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program

University of Wisconsin-Stout

The University of Wisconsin-Stout’s bachelor’s degree program equips students for the responsibilities that come with teaching those with disabilities and becoming a strong advocate for their families. Course topics include emotional behavioral disorders, intellectual and learning disabilities, communication disorders, and diverse students with exceptional talents. You will augment your classroom learning with a teaching internship.

Master’s Degrees

A Master of Education (MEd) is for those interested in advanced teaching and leadership roles. A Master of Science (MS) is for students interested in conducting research in the field. Whether you prefer fully online or hybrid programs, you’ll typically need to complete around 45 credits, including field experience. Your coursework will cover advanced topics such as educational psychology, behavioral and classroom management, assistive technology applications for diagnosis and instruction, special education law, the impact on family members, and graduate research theory and techniques.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Master’s Degree Program

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s special education master’s degree program gives students an advanced understanding of data-driven teaching and classroom management strategies. Specific classes include instructional design, planning, and assessment; instructional methods for language and literacy; and research and evaluation in education. You will also be required to complete a supervised research project to demonstrate your understanding of material taught throughout the program.

Doctoral Degrees

Earning a doctorate in special education is the highest level of academic accomplishment in the field and opens doors to various leadership roles in education policy and instructional leadership. The education PhD is for those interested in research at the university level. The EdD is for individuals aiming to deepen their knowledge and qualifications in a specialized area or advance into leadership positions. Doctoral degree programs typically take six years to complete, with credit hours ranging from 40 to 70. However, accelerated education degrees or self-paced online programs can take as little as three years.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Doctoral Degree Program

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado has a doctoral program that allows students to tailor the curriculum based on their academic interests and career goals. Whether you want to become an administrator, college professor, student advocate, or education researcher, you’ll work with an advisor to choose coursework that prepared you for next steps.

FAQs About Special Education Programs

How long does it take to earn a special education degree online?

Online special education degrees at all levels vary depending on whether you pursue them on a full- or part-time basis. Generally, you can complete an associate degree in two years and a bachelor’s degree in four. Graduate degrees may take two to five years, depending on whether you enroll in a master’s or doctoral program. Accelerated or self-paced courses can cut the time to graduation.

Do I need to become certified to teach special education?

Special education teachers are required to hold more than one certification. At minimum, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree to obtain a general K-6 certification. Some online programs offer dual certification that leads to elementary education and K-6 special education credentials. All states offer alternative routes to certification for applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree in the subject they hope to teach. You’ll also need to obtain a state-issued certification in special education. The American Academy of Special Education Professionals (AASEP) offers the national test for certification, and you can also be certified in your specialization(s). Bachelor and master’s students are encouraged to contact state departments of education to learn about specific certification requirements.

What’s the difference between certification and licensure for special education?

While you’ll need certifications and licenses to work in special education, there are key differences. Certifications verify that the applicant has completed their formal, accredited education. Independent national organizations and associations, such as AASEP, offer certification exams. Usually certification requirements include formal education, documented work experience, and an examination of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to work in the profession. Your classroom experience also factors in the approval process. On the other hand, special education licenses are awarded by school districts and state departments of education. Each state has its own licensing requirements. You may apply for a general license or, if the state requires, licenses to work in your specialization.

How much do special education teachers make?

Your pay rate may vary dramatically based on your level of education, relevant certifications, and experience. For example, if you earn an associate degree, you might work in your community as a teacher assistant. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual wage of $35,550 for assistants. If you work as a special education teacher with a bachelor’s degree, the median annual wage is $65,910. By completing a master’s degree, you may advance to jobs as school counselors, administrators, instructional coordinators, and K-5 principals. The median annual wage for instructional coordinators is $74,620.

Are online teaching degrees legitimate?

Yes. Years ago, there were concerns about the legitimacy of online learning, but now that it has become widely adopted and accepted, the perception has become more favorable. As long as you enroll in a program and school that have been accredited, you can be confident that you’re getting an education that will prepare you for the future. Additionally, employers won’t think any less of your degree because you earned it online. If you’ve received the training and skills that organizations look for, no one will be concerned about the format of your degree program.

Special Education Degree Concentrations

Special education teachers seeking advancement can return to an online university to earn a graduate degree. One of the best ways to prepare for career progression is to complete a specialization as part of your master’s degree. Concentrations build on your knowledge and experience, and you’ll gain advanced expertise in a niche serving one or more student populations. The targeted subject matter is focused and intensive. Graduate students can choose a specialization that targets their educator goals or to prepare for careers on the rise within a school district. Here are some of today’s top concentrations in special education.

Ranking Top Special Education Programs Online

Special education teachers address serious learning challenges that can impede a student’s ability to make progress both in and out of the classroom. As a result, you will need quality training to prepare for this unique experience. To help, we have curated the best online special education programs. Program scores reflect key factors like affordable tuition rates, robust student support services, proper accreditation, and flexible course scheduling. Learn more about our top picks and see which program fits your needs.