What are the Requirements for a Career in Special Education?
A career in special education can connect a caring adult to children facing a variety of learning challenges. To find out more about the requirements and opportunities in this job specialty, continue reading.
Career Overview
Special education teachers work with children with disabilities. In most states, they need to satisfy the requirements for regular teachers as well as meet additional qualifications. In addition to working in special education, those interested in working with this population can also specialize in music therapy, counseling, social work, or administration.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutTeachingSpecialEducation">Important Facts About Teaching Special Education</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Required Education</td><td> Bachelor's required; Master's recommended</td></tr>
<tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td>$62,120 <i>(for secondary school special ed. teachers)</i>; $61,720 <i>(for all other special ed. teachers)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 4% growth <i>(for special education teachers)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td>Work Environment</td><td>Public and private schools, childcare centers</td></tr>
<tr><td>Similar Occupations</td><td>Childcare worker, teacher, recreational therapist</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---Education">Education</h3><p>Although the minimum requirement for entering a career in special education is a bachelor's degree from an accredited college, many of these degree programs include special education courses or require an additional year of study focused in special education. Minimum educational requirements will vary depending on the location, position, and institution. It's common that a certificate or a master's degree in special education or other specialized areas may be needed to gain a position. Coursework specific to special education includes characteristics of special education, teaching methods, special education law, and child development.
</p><h3 id="section---Licensing">Licensing</h3><p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, <i>www.bls.gov</i>), teachers must obtain a license in the state where they work. Requirements vary from state to state, but many states require prospective teachers to take certification tests on professional and basic skills in order to obtain a license. For example, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requires individuals to take the Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL). The MTEL includes questions on communication, literacy skills, and subject knowledge.
</p><h3 id="section---SkillsAndAbilities">Skills and Abilities</h3><p>In addition to educational training and licensure, individuals working in the field of special education should possess skills important to working with special needs children. Educators should be able to communicate and work well with others because they constantly interact with children, colleagues, and parents. Patience and creativity are key qualities for special education teachers. They also must be able to incorporate a variety of learning techniques into daily instruction in order to reach children of mixed ability levels.</p>