Best Online Special Education Undergraduate Programs of 2024

What’s the best online special education program? If you’re majoring in education, you already know that a supportive learning environment matters. And when you’re investing in a bachelor’s in special education, you want your investment to pay off.

BestColleges crunched the numbers and ranked the University of Georgia at the top of our list of the best special education programs. We identify top programs by considering factors like affordability and student outcomes. And by showcasing how different programs measure up, you can find the best fit for your needs.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The University of Georgia ranks as our top online special education degree program. UGA stood out for its strong retention and graduation rates. The public institution reports an impressive 95% retention rate, indicating that nearly all first-year students return to the university for their second year.

UGA also reports an 88% graduation rate, compared with an overall average graduation rate of 63% at four-year public institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

The 40% admission rate at UGA indicates a selective admissions process, meaning that UGA may be harder to get into than other schools on our list. UGA also ranked third for its net price of nearly $15,000, which is more than double the most affordable online bachelor’s in special education program.

Florida International University ranks as the most affordable school for an online special education degree — and when it comes to affordability, few schools can compete with FIU. The school’s net price of around $6,200 is significantly less than the other colleges in our ranking. However, that rate applies to Florida residents. If you live in another state, you’ll need to pay a higher, out-of-state tuition rate.

FIU just missed out on the number one spot due to its slightly lower retention and graduation rates. While 90% of FIU first-years returned for their second year, the public institution reported a 67% graduation rate. However, FIU does report a higher admission rate of 64%, meaning you have a better chance of getting into the school.

A private institution focused on online education, Western Governors University reports the best admission rate of the schools in our ranking. At WGU, you’re guaranteed admission — the school has a 100% acceptance rate. However, that high acceptance rate means the university’s retention and graduation rates are slightly lower. Just 63% of first-year students return for their second year, and the school has a 64% graduation rate.

WGU offers a unique tuition model where students pay a flat rate for six months. You can take as many courses as possible using a competency model during that time. For motivated students with a background in education, that can help you save money. The school’s net price of just under $12,000 ranked as the second most affordable.