Best Affordable Online Master’s in Special Education Programs of 2025

If you’re considering a master’s in special education, you’re likely looking for a program that won’t break the bank but still prepares you well for the classroom. That’s where our rankings come in.

To help you out, we looked at admission rates, net prices, graduation rates, and other important factors to create a list of the best affordable online master’s programs in special education. Though these programs may not be the cheapest ones available, they offer high academic quality at a reasonable price.

Though it’s tempting to take a school’s low sticker price at face value, that price often isn’t the best indicator of affordability. Factors like financial aid availability, time to completion, and long-term return on investment (ROI) all matter just as much as — and sometimes more than — the per-credit tuition rate.

For instance, a slightly higher-priced program may offer better financial aid packages, scholarships, or grants, substantially lowering your overall costs. Similarly, the time it takes to finish your degree significantly impacts affordability. A low-cost program that extends your studies by several extra semesters could end up costing more.

Also, keep in mind that affordability isn’t just about immediate savings. It’s also about future earnings and professional opportunities. Investing a bit more upfront in a program with strong credentials and a solid reputation might lead to better job prospects, higher salaries, and greater career satisfaction over time.

Ultimately, the most affordable degree isn’t always the cheapest — it’s the one that offers the best overall value throughout your career.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in 2020, the average cost of a master’s in education or teaching — which includes special education programs — ranges from $8,000-$12,000 per year. However, financial aid can bring that price down closer to $7,000-$10,000.

The ROI for an online master’s in special education is generally promising when you compare the cost of the degree with the earning potential after graduation.

An online master’s in special education typically costs between $14,000-$20,000 for a two-year program — far less than many other graduate degrees, such as those in business or engineering, which can exceed $50,000 per year.

That affordability stands out even more when paired with the salary increase. According to recent data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), graduates with a master’s degree in special education and teaching earn an average starting salary of around $79,900 — nearly $31,000 more than peers entering the field with only a bachelor’s degree.

However, upcoming federal policy changes may influence how these graduate degrees are regarded. A recent proposal from the Department of Education would exclude education programs from the “professional degree” category, reducing federal loan caps for future borrowers beginning in July 2026.

While this shift primarily impacts student loan eligibility and borrowing limits, some worry the shift could unintentionally position education degrees as less competitive than other degree programs.

Here are some tips to help you save money on your online education:

As an online student, you can access the same financial aid options as on-campus students. These include:

Note that, although FAFSA determines eligibility for most federal assistance, many colleges and universities also offer institution-specific scholarships that students can apply for directly through the school.

If you need to take out student loans to help fund your education, aim to borrow only what you need to reduce the amount of interest you’ll pay over time. It’s also best to avoid private loans when possible — they often come with higher interest rates, fewer borrower protections, and sometimes require a co-signer. Federal loans are generally the safer option, offering grace periods, flexible repayment plans, and potential loan forgiveness.

Some schools grant credit for prior learning (CPL) for work experience, military service, and other hands-on learning opportunities. This can reduce the number of courses you need to take, lowering both the time and cost required to earn your degree.

To qualify for CPL, you’ll most likely need to prove your expertise by taking prior learning assessments (PLA) or submitting documentation that verifies your training and experience.

One of the best ways to ensure the money you spend on your program doesn’t go to waste is to verify that the program is properly accredited. Accreditation confirms that the curriculum meets industry and academic standards, and it’s often required for licensure, certification, and employer recognition.

Most school websites include a page that lists their accreditation status. You can cross-reference this information by checking the accrediting agencies’ websites or by using the Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.