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Massachusetts public universities deliver Special Education and Teaching programs at remarkably low costs, with Fitchburg State University offering net prices of just $15,432 compared to private institutions reaching $39,324. The $23,892 gap between cheapest and most expensive options reflects the state's stark public-private divide. Boston University graduates command the highest starting salaries at $50,606, while the broader range spans from $36,938 to $50,606 annually. Massachusetts schools benefit from the state's emphasis on inclusive education policies and strong demand for special education teachers across urban districts like Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, where individualized education programs require specialized expertise.
14
Programs
$15,432 – $39,324
Net Price Range
$41,595
Avg. Program Earnings
61.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Special Education and Teaching Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $15,432 $11,046 52.7% 86.1%
2 $17,733 $28,610 35.3% 61.9%
3 $17,970 $11,389 54.6% 87.7%
4 $18,561 $11,882 54.9% 81.5%
5 $21,436 $42,061 64.7% 90.9%
6 $24,817 $28,100 67.6% 91.8%
7 $25,702 $35,013 28.4% 74.2%
8 $26,996 $65,168 90.0% 14.4%
9 $28,346 $47,770 69.5% 88.8%
10 $29,504 $46,220 48.3% 87.5%
11 $29,969 $54,500 80.8% 73.4%
12 $31,805 $32,780 61.7% 86.2%
13 $37,899 $51,786 72.1% 74.6%
14 $39,324 $39,212 75.4% 73.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes public universities so much cheaper for Special Education programs in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts public universities like Fitchburg State ($15,432 net price) and Bridgewater State ($17,970) benefit from state funding and in-state tuition rates under $12,000. The MassGrant Plus program further reduces costs for qualifying residents, creating savings of over $20,000 compared to private alternatives.

How do graduation rates vary between affordable and expensive programs?

Public universities show mixed results, with Fitchburg State achieving 52.7% graduation rates and Westfield State at 54.9%. Boston University leads at 90% graduation rates despite higher costs, while some affordable private options like Eastern Nazarene College struggle at just 35.3%.

Does attending a more expensive program guarantee higher earnings?

Boston University graduates earn $50,606 annually despite the $26,996 net price, but Bridgewater State graduates earn $36,938 while paying only $17,970. The $13,668 salary difference doesn't always justify the higher educational investment across all Massachusetts programs.

Where do Special Education teachers find the best job opportunities in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts urban districts in Boston, Springfield, and Worcester actively recruit special education teachers due to federal inclusion mandates. The state's biotech and healthcare sectors also create demand for educational specialists who understand developmental disabilities and therapeutic interventions.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.