Cheapest Special Education and Teaching Colleges in Washington

Washington's most affordable Special Education and Teaching programs reveal sharp divisions between public and private options. Heritage University in Toppenish offers the lowest net cost at $11,893, while Gonzaga University reaches $36,371 despite maintaining an 87% graduation rate. Public universities like Eastern Washington and Central Washington provide strong value with in-state tuition under $10,000. The state's emphasis on inclusive education aligns with federal requirements for special education services in public schools, creating steady demand for qualified teachers. Central Washington University graduates earn $47,064 annually, the highest among programs with available salary data.

Programs

$11,893 – $36,371

Net Price Range

$45,298

Avg. Program Earnings

57.7%

Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Special Education and Teaching Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Heritage University Toppenish, Washington	$11,893	$19,920	39.8%
2	Eastern Washington University Cheney, Washington	$13,091	$8,353	47.2%	96.1%
3	University of Washington-Seattle Campus Seattle, Washington	$13,485	$12,643	83.7%	47.5%
4	Central Washington University Ellensburg, Washington	$14,715	$9,192	49.9%	93.5%
5	Western Washington University Bellingham, Washington	$18,680	$9,286	65.5%	92.7%
6	Saint Martin's University Lacey, Washington	$22,618	$44,210	57.1%	95.0%
7	Seattle Pacific University Seattle, Washington	$24,820	$38,814	62.1%	90.7%
8	Whitworth University Spokane, Washington	$25,884	$50,920	68.4%	90.5%
9	City University of Seattle Seattle, Washington	$35,049	$14,589	16.7%
10	Gonzaga University Spokane, Washington	$36,371	$53,500	86.9%	69.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Heritage University the most affordable option for Special Education and Teaching?

Heritage University's net cost of $11,893 makes it the cheapest program in Washington, though its 40% graduation rate trails behind public alternatives. The private nonprofit serves a predominantly Hispanic student population in Toppenish.

How do public university costs compare for Special Education and Teaching programs?

Public universities offer significant savings with in-state tuition ranging from $8,353 at Eastern Washington to $12,643 at University of Washington-Seattle. Net costs after aid span $13,091 to $18,680 across the four public options.

Does Central Washington University provide good career outcomes for special education teachers?

Central Washington graduates earn $47,064 annually, the highest reported salary among Washington programs. The university maintains a 50% graduation rate with 93% acceptance rate, making it accessible while delivering strong earnings potential.

Is the University of Washington-Seattle worth the higher cost for Special Education and Teaching?

UW-Seattle's 84% graduation rate far exceeds other programs, though its 48% acceptance rate makes admission more competitive. The $13,485 net cost remains reasonable for a flagship university with strong academic reputation.

More Special Education and Teaching Rankings

Best Value Special Education and Teaching in Washington Special Education and Teaching Under $20,000 in Washington

All Special Education and Teaching Programs Best Colleges in Washington Best Special Education and Teaching in Washington

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