Online Bachelor of Education in Education – Special Education
Special education teachers are among the most needed educators in the country — and Arizona State University's online Bachelor of Education in special education gives you a clear, efficient path to becoming one. In 90 credits, you'll complete all the coursework, field experiences and student teaching required for special education teacher certification. Plus, ASU will assist in classroom placement support to give you professional experience. Graduates leave prepared to step into K-12 special education classrooms with the skills, credentials and confidence to make a difference.
Quick facts
Next start date: 10/14/2026
Total classes: 27
Weeks per class: 7.5–15
Total credit hours: 90
This program is also available in-person.
Explore campus options
Prepare to be a licensed special education teacher in 90 credits
Professional licensure and certification
Professional licensure:
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage. Contact MLFTCCompliance@asu.edu if you have questions about licensure or certification.
State authorization:
We strongly recommend you visit our state authorization page to learn how ASU is authorized to operate in your state, policies for out-of-state students and program exceptions.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Special education courses and student teaching experience
The curriculum covers the full range of knowledge and skills you need to teach in special education settings — from disability law and assessment to evidence-based instruction and behavior support. Courses are sequenced to build on one another, and each one connects to your clinical experiences so you can apply what you learn in real classrooms throughout the program. The 27-course sequence culminates in a full-time student teaching semester in a special education setting.
What can you do with a special education teaching degree?
Special education roles are in demand. The Learning Disabilities Association of America reports that many schools are facing vacancies. Additionally, many schools are finding it difficult to fill these roles. Graduates of this program are prepared to work as certified special education teachers in K-12 settings, including public schools, charter schools and private education programs. The certification this program leads to is required in Arizona for teaching in special education classrooms, opening doors to roles that are consistently in high demand.
Business Professor
Education Professor
Elementary Special Education Teacher
High School Special Education Teacher
Instructional Specialist
Kindergarten Special Education Teacher
Middle School Special Education Teacher
School Principal
Social Services Director
Learn from faculty shaping the future of teacher preparation
The Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation faculty draws from a range of academic disciplines, including cognitive science, psychology and economics. They seek to answer questions about the process of learning, teaching practices and effects of education policy. Our faculty is also committed to connecting research to schools and other learning environments. They ensure teacher and leadership preparation programs combine scholarly rigor with practical application.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Join one of the best colleges of education in the nation
Mary Lou Fulton College for Teaching and Learning Innovation brings people and ideas together to increase the capabilities of educators and the performance of education systems. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.
#1
best online master's in educational/instructional media programs
#2
best online master’s in curriculum and instruction programs
#4
best online master’s in special education programs
#4
best online master's in administration and supervision programs
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
