Intelligent.com, a widely recognized source for higher education rankings and research, has included the College of Staten Island in its annual assessment, recognizing it as one of the Best Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs for 2025, ranking No. 19 nationally.

Unlike conventional rankings, Intelligent.com employs a rigorous, data-driven methodology designed to provide students with the most accurate and meaningful evaluations. Each university is assessed on a proprietary scale of 0 to 100, with scores derived from four key factors: academic quality, graduation rates, cost and return on investment (ROI), and student resources. This distinctive approach ensures that institutions with strong academic rigor, affordable programs, and exceptional student support rank higher, helping prospective students make the most informed decisions.

“This ranking is another affirmation of the top-quality, low-cost programs to be found at the College of Staten Island,” said CSI President Dr. Timothy G. Lynch. “It is not surprising to learn that our School of Education—with its dynamic and talented faculty, immersive experiential learning opportunities, and strategic support services—has been recognized in this manner. We are proud of the work we are doing here and appreciate the acknowledgment by intelligent.com.”

CSI Professor and Special Education Coordinator Nelly Tournaki, PhD, commented on the honor, saying “It’s great to be recognized by Intelligent.com as a top program nationally. Our nationally recognized program prepares qualified teachers that can teach students with disabilities on Staten Island and beyond. Special education teachers are in high demand by public schools, so employment of our graduates is almost guaranteed.”

The evaluation process by Intelligent.com is enhanced by leveraging comprehensive data from trusted sources such as U.S. News & World Report, the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These sources are cross-checked with internal reviews and aggregated rankings to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date results.

With this meticulous methodology, Intelligent.com’s rankings serve as a benchmark for top-tier online and hybrid programs, focusing on institutions that prioritize both quality and affordability. The universities selected as top picks stand out for their commitment to academic excellence and their ability to prepare students for successful careers.

To access the complete ranking, please visit https://www.intelligent.com/best-masters-in-special-education-degree-programs/#cuny_college_of_staten_island