Different Types of Special Education Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The demand for skilled professionals in special education continues to rise as schools seek qualified educators to support diverse student needs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in special education teaching roles is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade, reflecting expanding awareness and resources dedicated to inclusive education.

Choosing the right educational path is crucial for those aiming to enter this rewarding field, as different degree programs align with varied career opportunities and earning potentials. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the various types of special education degrees available and explores the salary expectations graduates can anticipate, equipping readers with essential insights for making informed academic and professional decisions.

Key Points About Different Types of Special Education Degrees and Their Salaries

Individuals with a bachelor's degree in special education typically have access to a wider range of teaching positions and earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, reflecting higher demand and credential requirements in many public school districts.
Special education teachers holding a master's degree often qualify for advanced roles such as program coordinators or specialists and can expect salaries that are 10% to 15% higher on average compared to those with only a bachelor's degree, with some states offering additional stipends for higher education credentials.
Associate degree holders generally have more limited career opportunities, often working as paraprofessionals or teacher aides, with median salaries closer to $30,000 annually, which illustrates the significant earning potential and career growth available by pursuing at least a bachelor's degree in special education.

What Are the Different Types of Special Education Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of special education degrees is crucial for students to make an informed decision that aligns with their career goals and educational background. Each degree option caters to distinct focuses and prepares individuals for varied roles within the field of special education.

Below is an overview of the main types of special education degrees and what makes each unique.

Bachelor's in Special Education: This undergraduate degree introduces foundational concepts such as educational theory, instructional methods, and disability law. Coursework emphasizes classroom management, assessment of learning needs, and strategies for teaching students with mild to moderate disabilities.
Master's in Special Education (MA or MEd): Building upon basic teaching principles, this degree focuses on advanced strategies for supporting diverse learners. Topics include inclusive curriculum design, behavior intervention, assessment tools, and special education law, often incorporating research and practical applications.
Educational Specialist (EdS) in Special Education: Targeted at educators seeking expertise beyond the master's level, this degree covers leadership skills in special education, advanced assessment techniques, and program development. It prepares professionals for consultative and programmatic roles within schools.
Doctorate in Special Education (PhD or EdD): Doctoral programs emphasize research, policy analysis, and advancing special education theory. Students engage in rigorous study of current issues, research methodologies, and program evaluation to generate new knowledge and guide systemic change.
Master of Arts in Administration of Special Education: This degree focuses on administrative and policy skills, including supervising special education teachers and advising districts on compliance. Coursework combines educational policy with leadership training specific to special education contexts.

Special education teachers' salaries vary significantly depending on the degree held, with advanced degrees often leading to higher earning potential. For those interested in exploring efficient educational pathways with promising earnings, reviewing the best paying 6 month certificate programs can also be insightful.

What Specializations Are Available in Special Education Degrees?

Choosing a specialization is a crucial factor when pursuing a special education degree, as it shapes the skills you develop and the career paths available. Aligning your education with your specific interests allows you to target distinct student populations and enhance your professional effectiveness.

Several common specializations within special education degrees cater to diverse needs and goals, including the following:

Early Childhood Special Education: Focuses on assessment and intervention strategies for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with developmental delays or disabilities. Key skills include understanding developmental psychology, early intervention techniques, and family collaboration. Graduates often become preschool special education teachers or early interventionists.
Autism Spectrum Disorders: Prepares educators to support students diagnosed with autism by emphasizing behavioral assessments, sensory strategies, and communication methods. Professionals may work as autism specialists, classroom teachers, or behavior interventionists in various educational and clinical settings.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Centers on behavioral assessments and interventions for students with emotional or behavioral disorders. This specialization develops expertise in data-driven decision-making and ethical practice, leading to roles in schools, private therapy, or as board-certified behavior analysts.
Visual Impairment: Trains teachers to support students who are blind or have low vision, including instruction in Braille and assistive technologies. Graduates typically work as teachers of the visually impaired or provide mobility training in school or private environments.
Gifted and Talented Student Education: Focuses on the unique educational needs of gifted learners, emphasizing differentiated instruction and advanced assessment strategies. Career opportunities include gifted program coordinators or specialized classroom teachers.
Adapted Physical Education: Prepares educators to modify physical education programs for students with physical or developmental disabilities. Skills include motor skills assessment and designing inclusive activities, often leading to roles as adapted physical education teachers or curriculum specialists.

For those considering their academic options, exploring the top online degrees for seniors may also reveal additional pathways into special education and related fields.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Special Education Degree?

Understanding the typical duration of special education degree programs is essential for students planning their education and career timelines. Knowing how long each degree takes helps in making informed decisions about enrollment, balancing life commitments, and entering the workforce. Below is an overview of the main special education degree types and their usual completion times.

Associate Degree in Special Education: Typically takes about two years of full-time study. Part-time options can extend this timeline, while transfer credits from prior coursework may shorten it. Some community colleges offer online classes to provide flexibility for working students.
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education: Usually requires four years of full-time study. Factors like advanced placement credits or heavier course loads can reduce this duration, whereas part-time study extends it. Many institutions now provide online or hybrid formats to accommodate diverse student needs.
Master's Degree in Special Education: Often completed in two years beyond the bachelor's degree, assuming full-time enrollment. Part-time programs may take three to five years. Accelerated and online master's programs are increasingly common, offering options for working professionals.
Doctoral Degree in Special Education: Generally requires three to six years post-master's degree, depending on research scope and dissertation completion. Full-time study shortens the timeline, while part-time or working students may take longer. Some programs offer flexible schedules and online coursework elements.

Are There Accelerated Special Education Degree Programs?

Yes, accelerated special education degree programs are available in the United States, offering a faster route for students to earn their credentials compared to traditional timelines. These programs exist at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, with some structured to allow students to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree within approximately five years.

The primary methods that enable this acceleration include condensed courses that cover material more intensively, year-round academic terms without long summer breaks, and the opportunity to transfer or share credits between undergraduate and graduate studies.

Additionally, many programs incorporate intensive practicum or fieldwork experiences that are designed to meet licensure requirements more swiftly. Online and hybrid formats are becoming increasingly common as well, adding flexibility for those who may be working or need to balance other commitments while pursuing licensure or advanced degrees.

However, prospective students should be aware of important considerations before enrolling in accelerated special education programs. The workload is typically more intense, requiring full-time commitment throughout the year, including summers, which may challenge those balancing jobs or family obligations.

Eligibility criteria often demand a solid academic standing, such as a minimum GPA of around 3.0 for graduate-level tracks, relevant undergraduate coursework, and sometimes supporting documents like letters of recommendation or personal statements. Another factor to keep in mind is that fieldwork or student teaching components often occur during daytime hours, limiting flexibility for outside employment.

Despite these challenges, these accelerated pathways can be an efficient and cost-effective option for motivated students or career changers eager to meet the growing demand for qualified special education teachers, where median salaries range from about $62,950 for kindergarten and elementary levels to $65,910 for secondary education roles.

Reflecting on the experience of a graduate from one of these accelerated special education degree programs, he described the journey as "intense but incredibly rewarding." He noted that the compressed schedule meant juggling heavy coursework loads while deeply engaging in practical teaching experiences, sometimes feeling "like there was barely a moment to catch my breath." However, he also emphasized that the robust support from faculty and the program's structure helped maintain focus and momentum.

The graduate shared that "the continuous, year-round pace required discipline and resilience," but those factors also provided a consistent learning flow that reinforced his skills without the typical downtime that can lead to knowledge gaps. He appreciated the combination of online flexibility with in-person fieldwork, which allowed him to manage obligations that might have otherwise hindered his progress.

In retrospect, he considers the accelerated program an excellent fit for his goal to enter the special education field quickly, remarking that "while challenging, the experience prepared me well for the demands of teaching and made the career transition smoother than I anticipated."

Are Online Special Education Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online special education degree programs now uphold academic standards comparable to those of traditional programs, especially when offered by accredited universities. Both formats demand rigorous coursework covering child development, educational psychology, and special education law. Additionally, each includes supervised teaching placements, either conducted in person or through hybrid arrangements.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics highlights that in the 2017-2018 school year, 59% of public schools provided at least one fully online course, demonstrating the growing acceptance of online learning within teacher preparation.

Some studies even indicate that online schools sometimes enroll a higher percentage of special education students and, in certain cases, achieve better outcomes on standardized assessments compared to traditional schools. However, hands-on training and personalized mentoring remain essential elements, with traditional programs often offering more direct face-to-face feedback.

Recent trends show increasing employer acceptance of online special education degrees, provided these programs hold regional accreditation and include the necessary state certification. Degrees from recognized institutions such as Edgewood University are regarded as globally validated and respected, much like their traditional campus-based equivalents.

Salaries for special education teachers largely depend on position, location, and educational attainment, with bachelor's degree holders earning median salaries around $61,820. Advanced degrees typically lead to higher pay or administrative opportunities.

Ultimately, the credibility of a special education degree is more strongly influenced by the reputation and accreditation of the issuing institution than by whether the program was completed online or in person. For most employers and certification bodies, the format of learning is secondary to the quality and standing of the degree itself.

How Much Does Each Type of Special Education Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding the differences in tuition costs across various degree levels in special education is essential for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Tuition can vary widely depending on the degree type, institution, and program delivery method. Below is an overview of typical tuition ranges for each type of special education degree to help prospective students better plan their educational investment.

Associate Degree in Special Education: The average tuition for an associate degree typically runs around $3,800 per year, totaling approximately $7,600 for the full two-year program. Community colleges usually offer more affordable tuition compared to four-year institutions. Students can benefit from federal Pell Grants, state assistance, and scholarships that reduce overall expenses.
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education: Tuition costs vary significantly, with public in-state programs averaging between $9,800 and $10,500 annually, while private institutions may charge upwards of $37,650 per year. Online bachelor's programs often present lower net tuition, averaging around $5,000 to $5,400 per year. Many students rely on a combination of federal aid, scholarships, and state grants to manage these costs.
Master's in Special Education: Tuition typically ranges from $11,000 to $21,000 per year depending on school type, resulting in a total program cost between $20,000 and $42,000 for two years. Some online master's programs offer more affordable tuition, starting as low as $3,800 annually. Graduate students frequently access federal loans, work-study opportunities, and institutional support to offset expenses.
Doctoral Degree in Special Education: Doctoral programs are generally the most expensive, with annual tuition often exceeding $20,000 and total costs sometimes surpassing $100,000. Funding options commonly include research and teaching assistantships as well as competitive fellowships, which can substantially reduce the financial burden for doctoral candidates.

Reflecting on the experiences shared by a graduate of a special education degree program, she described navigating her tuition challenges through careful planning and resourcefulness. "I took advantage of scholarship opportunities early on, but also worked part-time jobs and applied for federal aid," she explained. She emphasized that the flexibility of online courses allowed her to balance work and study without overwhelming financial strain.

Now working as a special education teacher, she values the investment saying, "The degree opened doors to a rewarding career, and managing costs thoughtfully made the journey much less stressful than I anticipated." Her story highlights the practical approaches students can take to handle tuition expenses while securing a meaningful educational outcome.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Special Education Degree?

The level of your special education degree significantly influences the career opportunities and types of roles you qualify for. Higher-level degrees often lead to specialized, leadership, or research positions, while entry-level degrees prepare graduates for supporting roles in classroom environments. Below is an overview of common jobs associated with each degree type in special education.

Associate Degree in Special Education: Graduates typically work as teacher assistants, paraprofessionals, or classroom aides. These roles involve supporting certified teachers, assisting students with disabilities in their daily tasks, and helping implement lesson plans, mainly in K-12 public and private schools.
Bachelor's Degree in Special Education: This degree prepares individuals to become licensed special education teachers, preschool or childcare center directors, and instructional aides. Responsibilities include developing individualized education programs (IEPs), collaborating with families, and working across elementary to high school settings.
Master's Degree in Special Education: Graduates can advance to roles like behavior analysts, curriculum specialists, educational diagnosticians, early intervention specialists, or program directors. They often lead teams, develop curricula, and manage programs in schools, clinics, or administrative offices. For those interested in accelerating their career and earning potential, exploring fast masters programs can be beneficial.
Doctoral Degree (PhD or EdD) in Special Education: Doctoral holders qualify for university faculty positions, high-level policy development, or leadership roles managing large special education initiatives. These roles frequently involve postsecondary teaching, research, and administration, with salaries exceeding $90,000 depending on the institution and location.

How Do Salaries Differ by Special Education Degree Type?

Degree level often plays a crucial role in determining earning potential within special education careers. Understanding how salaries differ by degree type can help students make informed educational and career decisions that align with their goals. Below are typical salary ranges and relevant details for each major special education degree type.

Associate degree in Special Education: Graduates with an associate degree typically qualify for roles such as paraeducator or teaching assistant, with starting salaries ranging between $25,000 and $35,000 annually. These positions generally offer lower pay due to limited responsibilities and are influenced by factors such as school district budgets and regional cost of living.
Bachelor's degree in Special Education: This degree is the minimum requirement for most licensed special education teaching positions. Average starting salaries range from $42,000 to $53,000, with a national average near $48,000 as of 2025. Salaries vary significantly by state, district, and grade level, and bachelor's holders often face fewer advancement opportunities compared to those with graduate degrees.
Master's degree in Special Education: Holding a master's degree can increase starting salaries by $4,000 to $10,000 over bachelor's degree holders. Typical salary ranges fall between $55,000 and $75,000, with access to specialized roles such as interventionist or curriculum developer that often pay $75,000 to $95,000 or more depending on location and district.
Doctoral degree (Ed.D. or Ph.D.) in Special Education: Doctorate holders can pursue careers in higher education, administration, or policy, with salaries frequently exceeding $90,000 and sometimes reaching six figures. These advanced degrees offer the highest long-term earning potential, especially in urban districts or government positions.

For students considering further education to improve salary prospects, exploring the cheapest online degrees programs can provide flexible and affordable options to advance their qualifications and career outlook.

Is There High Demand for Special Education Degree Holders in the Job Market?

The demand for special education degree holders in the U.S. job market remains notably high due to several influencing factors. Emerging technologies such as online learning platforms and assistive devices have broadened the scope for special education professionals, enabling work in both traditional classrooms and virtual environments.

Workforce shortages significantly contribute to this demand, with over half of districts and 80% of states in 2023-24 reporting difficulties filling all special education vacancies. Moreover, regional differences impact job availability; rural and inner-city schools often have the greatest need, and candidates with bilingual skills or experience in multicultural settings are increasingly sought after.

Job growth also varies by specialization, with preschool special education roles expected to grow at 8% through 2026, outpacing average rates for other grade levels.

Alongside workforce needs, salary variations based on degree type and location make special education an attractive career path. New graduates can expect stable employment opportunities in a field that encompasses more than teaching roles, including a shortage of doctoral-level faculty and specialists in autism and severe learning disabilities.

For those interested in the economic aspects of education-related careers, reviewing the highest paying trade school careers list can provide additional context. Overall, special education degree holders entering the workforce can anticipate steady job growth, widespread vacancies, and expanding career pathways across the nation.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Special Education Degree?

Choosing the right degree level in special education is a critical decision that shapes your career trajectory, earning potential, and ability to support diverse learners effectively. Aligning your education with both professional goals and personal circumstances ensures you make the most informed and beneficial choice. Below are key factors to consider when evaluating different special education degree options:

Career Goals: Different degree levels qualify you for distinct roles in the field. A bachelor's degree is usually required for licensed K-12 special education teaching, while advanced degrees like master's or doctoral open pathways to leadership, specialist, or administrative positions with greater responsibilities.
Salary Expectations: Higher educational attainment often leads to increased earning potential. While bachelor's degree holders earn an average salary near $44,395, master's or doctoral degrees can provide access to higher-paying roles such as program directors and consultants.
Specialization and Certification: Many programs offer specific tracks or dual licensure options targeting particular disabilities or age groups. Consider which population you want to serve, as certain specializations may require advanced degrees or extra certification beyond the initial credential.
Time Commitment: Degree programs vary in length and format. Typical bachelor's degrees take about four years, with master's degrees requiring an additional one to two years. Accelerated or combined programs might shorten the timeline but need a significant upfront commitment.
Flexibility and Program Format: Evaluate whether you need part-time, online, or in-person options to fit your lifestyle. Flexible formats can be essential if you are balancing work, family, or other obligations while studying.
Licensure Requirements: State certification rules differ, so ensure the program you choose aligns with the licensure requirements for the state where you plan to work. Some degree paths include built-in licensure preparation, while others might require additional steps.

What Special Education Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Diego: "Earning my doctoral degree in special education was an intense but rewarding experience that sharpened my research skills and expanded my vision of inclusive education practices. It allowed me to contribute meaningfully to academic discussions and community programs focused on accessibility and equity. Balancing my academic goals with community impact has been fulfilling, and I now lead initiatives that support families and educators alike. The challenges of pursuing this advanced degree have strengthened my commitment to fostering positive change."

Ariane: "Reflecting on my journey through a master's degree in special education, I appreciate how much it deepened my understanding of individualized learning plans and behavioral management techniques. It was challenging yet transformative, pushing me to become a more empathetic and patient educator. This degree has empowered me to take on leadership roles within my school, influencing policies to better serve students with disabilities. The professional development opportunities in this field have been invaluable to my growth."

Gary: "Completing my bachelor's degree in special education opened doors I hadn't imagined. Not only did the program provide me with essential teaching strategies, but it also gave me confidence in advocating for students with diverse learning needs. Starting my career in an inclusive classroom has been incredibly rewarding, as I witness firsthand the growth and joy in my students. The stability and demand for special education teachers make this path both secure and fulfilling."

Other Things You Should Know About Special Education Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary for special education teachers in the United States?

The average salary for special education teachers in the US is approximately $56,000 per year. Salaries vary by state, experience, and the level of education taught, with higher pay typically offered in large urban districts and at secondary education levels.

Do special education coordinators earn more than teachers?

Yes, special education coordinators generally earn higher salaries than teachers. Coordinators oversee programs and staff, with average salaries ranging from $65,000 to $85,000 depending on district size and budget.

How does a master's degree in special education affect salary potential?

Obtaining a master's degree in special education usually increases salary potential by 10% to 20% compared to a bachelor's degree. It also allows for advanced roles such as specialists, lead teachers, or administrators who command higher wages.

What salary range can special education professionals expect with a doctorate?

Special education professionals holding a doctorate can expect salaries between $80,000 and $110,000 annually. These roles often include university faculty, researchers, or high-level administrators within education systems.