10 Easiest Online Special Education Degrees

Online special education programs are a great option for students who need a flexible learning environment. But if you have a lot of commitments on your plate and aren't sure you can even take online courses full-time, you may be wondering what your options are. Can you find an online bachelor's degree in special education that will be easy for you to complete?

Though ''easy'' is a subjective term, there are factors that can lead to students considering certain degree programs easier than others. Keep reading to learn more so you can become a special education teacher.

What Makes an Online Special Education Degree Easy?

Going to college can prove challenging for both online students and those who study on campus. Few students would consider any special education degree offered by a legitimate, accredited school ''easy''.

That said, some programs may be considered easier than other programs depending on an array of factors. Some of the factors to consider when looking for an easy online college include:

• Flexible scheduling: Many online degree programs offer flexible scheduling. This makes it easier for some students to fit their studies around other life commitments like caring for children or working full-time.
• Accelerated programs: Those hoping to get started in their new career path quickly often prefer accelerated online programs. These programs may require a larger time commitment but can help you graduate and earn the credentials you need more quickly than normal.
• Having an associate degree: If you already have an associate degree, you're halfway to earning a bachelor's degree. This means that, with the appropriate transfer credit hours, you could begin attending a four-year school and graduate from a bachelor's degree program in as little as two years.
• Transfer credits: If you don't have an associate degree but have attended college in the past, you may be able to transfer some or all of your general education credits to a new bachelor's degree program. Depending on how many credits you have to transfer, this can help you save time and money on getting your degree, making it easier to start your career as a special education teacher.
• Simplified admissions process: Some schools make it easier to get started with your education than others by having a simple enrollment process, relaxed admission requirements, and a high acceptance rate. Choosing a school with a simplified admissions process can help you get your degree easier.
• Supportive learning environment: Having a supportive learning environment can make higher education easier for any student, regardless of their chosen program. If you plan to study online, look for a school that offers plenty of student resources and opportunities for learners to interact with professors and peers through virtual classrooms and forums.
• User-friendly technology:

Many schools offer online courses through Canvas or similar programs, while others provide their own online learning formats. Look for an online school that's known for having user-friendly technological programs to ensure your learning experience goes as smoothly as possible.

• Part-time study options: Since many nontraditional students have to fit their online education into their busy lives, schools that offer part-time study options can be highly beneficial. Though these programs may take longer to complete, they can allow you to complete the training necessary to meet licensure requirements without sacrificing the other parts of your life that are important to you.

Easiest Special Education Degrees Online

Various schools offer online special education degrees that can easily be completed. Let's look at some of the top options.

1. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University offers a highly flexible and affordable special education degree. The online Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) in special education K-12 prepares Arkansas residents to become licensed special education teachers in their home state.

The program features highly affordable tuition rates and the option to transfer up to 90 credit hours from another school. Several start dates are offered each year, allowing students to begin studying whenever they are ready.

2. Drexel University

Drexel University's special education program prepares students for teaching careers, according to the standards set by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Council for Exceptional Children. The Bachelor of Science in special education is available online and enables both in-state and out-of-state students to pursue teaching certifications.

This part-time program allows students to transfer up to 90 quarter credits or 60 semester credits from another school. It features small classes and student support services to help online students succeed.

3. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin is part of a large private school system with campuses and online degree programs available throughout the U.S. The school offers an accelerated online Bachelor of Arts degree in cross categorical special education.

The program can be completed in as little as three years and leads to teaching licensure. Students can complete eight-week course sessions on a schedule that works for them; the school accepts up to 84 transfer credits.

4. Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University provides various flexible online degree programs for busy adult students. One of the programs available is a Bachelor of Arts in special education, K-12 generalist. Students can pursue either the licensure or non-licensure option.

Students complete five-week courses one at a time, allowing them to progress through the program in a way that fits their schedule. The program requires 120 credit hours and student teaching experience to graduate.

5. East Carolina University

East Carolina University is a public school in North Carolina that offers an online special education degree. The Bachelor of Science in special education offers both general curriculum and adapted curriculum tracks, preparing students to work with students facing mild to moderate disabilities or more serious learning disabilities.

Both tracks are online degree completion programs. Students from North Carolina community colleges enjoy seamless transfer into the program of their choice. Student teaching and observation opportunities are available throughout the program, with students working a full-time internship during their senior year.

6. Central Methodist University

Central Methodist University in Missouri provides many flexible online degree programs at affordable prices. One of the programs available is a Bachelor of Science in Education, special education, mild to moderate disabilities K-12.

The program enables students to become certified to teach special education in Missouri. All coursework is completed online, while various field experiences enable students to gain the hands-on learning they need to succeed as teachers.

7. Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a fully online school that provides self-paced, competency-based degree programs. Students can pursue two special education bachelor's degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in special education (mild to moderate) and a Bachelor of Arts in special ed and elementary ed (dual licensure).

Students complete courses at their own pace through this online college of education. The school charges flat tuition rates per six-month term, rather than ''per credit hour'', helping highly-motivated students to graduate affordably.

8. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online Bachelor of Science in special education that can be completed as a full degree or degree completion program. Students must complete at least 30 of the 120 required credit hours through Old Dominion to graduate.

The program provides both general and adapted curriculum tracks. Students who earn this degree can pursue licensure in Virginia; if they plan to work elsewhere, they must check with their state's requirements beforehand to ensure the program meets all requirements.

9. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia offers a special education program that receives high rankings from U.S. News and World Report. The Bachelor of Science in education-special education prepares students to work with special needs students in preschool through 12th grade.

Students complete the program entirely online. Those meeting eligibility requirements can pursue an accelerated master's degree in special education concurrently with their bachelor's degree.

10. Liberty University

Liberty University offers special education degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. The online Bachelor of Science in special education interdisciplinary studies provides a great opportunity for students to begin working in non-licensure special education roles.

Students can transfer up to 75% of their total required credit hours and take advantage of flexible eight-week courses. The program offers affordable tuition and the opportunity to transfer seamlessly into the school's Master of Arts in teaching-special education program.

Find a Special Education Degree Program Today

If you're ready to begin your special education journey, check out the schools featured right here on Learn.org. You can contact the admissions office at any of these schools to find out which special education degree program may be right for you.