Special Education Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Teaching students with disabilities or special learning needs.
Starting Salary
$43K
median
Mid-Career
$55K
salary
ROI Payback
4.8 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
1.5%
rate
Special Education Overview
Teaching students with disabilities or special learning needs.
Category
Education
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
70%
Enrollment Trend
growing
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
5%
Lifetime Premium
$300K
Female Graduates
85%
Special Education Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$14,850
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$14,850
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$285,150
Lifetime earnings premium ($300,000) minus net degree cost ($14,850)
Special Education Salary Progression
Common Special Education Careers
Special Education Teacher
Behavior Specialist
Educational Diagnostician
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Special Education
#1
Vanderbilt
#2
University of Virginia
#3
University of Kansas
#4
University of Oregon
#5
University of Florida
Related Majors
Special Education Degree FAQ
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