Those considering a special education degree can study online or at one of many colleges and universities across the country. Online special education programs are available not only for undergraduate and master's degree students, but for those pursuing doctoral degrees as well. As many districts struggle to find sufficient numbers of licensed special education teachers, qualified jobseekers in the field should expect excellent job opportunities, says the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment is expected to increase by 17% from 2008 to 2018, faster than the average for all occupations.

Online coursework from accredited distance learning programs in special education typically include topics like:

• Abnormal Psychology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Attention Deficit Disorders: ADD and ADHD
• Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Behavior Management
• Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies for Teachers
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorders