How to Become a Special Education Teacher in New York State

Updated on 11/6/2025

Special education teachers play an essential role in helping students with disabilities reach their full potential. These educators design individualized learning plans, adapt lessons, and provide targeted support to meet each student's unique needs. In New York State, there's strong demand for qualified professionals as schools continue to expand special education services and inclusion programs.

If you're wondering how to become a special education teacher in NY, the process includes completing an approved education program, meeting certification requirements, and passing state exams. Below, you'll learn what degrees, experience, and credentials you'll need, as well as what to expect from the job market, salary, and long-term career outlook.

What Is a Special Education Teacher?

A special education teacher works with students who have diverse learning needs, including intellectual disabilities, emotional challenges, speech or language impairments, autism spectrum disorders, and physical limitations. Their primary goal is to create a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically, socially, and behaviorally.

In this role, you'll design and implement individualized education programs (IEPs), collaborate closely with general education teachers, and communicate progress with families and specialists. You'll also learn to use adaptive technology, differentiated instruction, and classroom management strategies that promote inclusion and independence. Success in this field requires patience, empathy, and a commitment to equity.

How To Become a Special Education Teacher in New York State

Becoming a special education teacher in New York involves meeting several special education teacher requirements set by the New York State Education Department (NYSED). The steps below outline each stage of the process from your first degree through professional certification.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Education or Special Education

The first step toward becoming a special education teacher in New York is earning a bachelor's degree in education, special education, or a closely related field. Coursework typically includes child development, classroom management, assessment methods, and instructional strategies for diverse learners. You'll also study how to modify lessons and use assistive technology to help students with disabilities access the general curriculum.

Some colleges in New York offer integrated programs that combine undergraduate coursework with teacher preparation and field experience, making it easier to meet certification requirements. Whether you choose a traditional or online degree, your program must be approved by NYSED to qualify for teacher certification in the state.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

After earning your degree, you'll need to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program that provides hands-on classroom experience. These programs pair coursework with supervised fieldwork in New York schools, allowing you to apply theory in real-world settings. You'll observe experienced teachers, design lessons, and work directly with students who have a range of learning needs.

Your program must include a student teaching or practicum component, where you'll spend several weeks or months leading a classroom under supervision. This experience builds the practical skills you'll use daily as a teacher, like adapting instruction, managing behavior, and evaluating progress. Completion of this step is mandatory before applying for certification through NYSED.

Step 3: Pass Required New York State Teacher Certification Exams

To qualify for certification, all teacher candidates in New York must pass the New York State Teacher Certification Exams (NYSTCE). These exams assess your content knowledge, teaching ability, and understanding of how to work with diverse student populations.

Passing scores on all three of the following key assessments are required for initial certification.

• Educating All Students (EAS) Test: This test measures your ability to teach inclusively and support students from various backgrounds.
• Content Specialty Test (CST): It evaluates your understanding of special education principles and instructional methods.
• edTPA: This test is a performance-based assessment requiring you to plan lessons, teach, and reflect on student learning outcomes.

Step 4: Apply for Initial Certification Through TEACH Online Services

Once you've met the education and testing requirements, you can apply for your initial certification through the TEACH online services portal, managed by NYSED. This certification allows you to begin teaching in New York public schools.

You'll need to submit official transcripts, proof of completed coursework, test scores, and the application fee. NYSED will verify your eligibility and issue your certification once all requirements are met. The initial certificate is valid for five years, giving you time to gain classroom experience and work toward professional certification.

Step 5: Complete Fingerprinting and Background Checks

All educators in New York are required to complete fingerprinting and background clearance through the New York State Education Department. This process helps ensure student safety and is mandatory before you can begin student teaching or employment in any public school.

You can complete fingerprinting through an approved vendor, such as IdentoGO, and results are automatically sent to NYSED for review. The background check may take several weeks to process, so it's best to complete this step early in your certification journey. Once cleared, your fingerprint record remains valid for future employment within the state.

Step 6: Gain Classroom Experience Under Initial Certification

After receiving your initial certification, you'll begin your teaching career while fulfilling the requirements needed for the next level of licensure. This period typically lasts five years, during which you'll teach full time, participate in professional development, and strengthen your classroom management and instructional skills.

Many teachers use this time to identify specific areas of focus, such as working with particular grade levels or disability categories. Gaining experience under supervision also helps you prepare for your professional certification, which requires a record of successful teaching experience verified by your employer.

Step 7: Earn Professional Certification

The final step is obtaining your professional certification, which allows you to teach permanently in New York. To qualify, you must complete a master's degree in education or special education, gain at least three years of full-time teaching experience, and fulfill professional development or mentoring requirements.

This advanced certification demonstrates your continued commitment to growth and excellence in the classroom. It also opens doors to higher pay, leadership positions, and specialized roles in curriculum development or educational administration. Once earned, your professional certificate must be maintained through ongoing professional learning hours every five years.

Career Outlook for Special Education Teachers in New York

Special education teachers in New York are in consistent demand, with job opportunities available across public schools, private institutions, and early intervention programs. As schools expand inclusive classrooms and individualized learning supports, certified educators with expertise in special education are becoming increasingly valuable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median special education teacher salary in New York is $116,500 per year, which is higher than the national average.

Career growth opportunities are also strong. Many teachers advance into leadership roles such as instructional coordinators, special education directors, or district-level administrators after earning additional credentials or graduate degrees. With steady job security, meaningful daily work, and opportunities for advancement, a special education teaching career in New York offers both professional stability and the chance to make a lasting impact.

FAQs About Becoming a Special Education Teacher in New York

If you're exploring how to become a special education teacher in New York, you probably have questions about coursework, timelines, and career expectations. Below, we answer some of the most common questions to help you plan your certification path with confidence.

What Classes Do I Need To Take To Become a Special Education Teacher?

Special education teachers take courses focused on child development, instructional design, behavior management, and teaching strategies for students with disabilities. You'll study topics such as assessment and evaluation, assistive technology, and collaboration with families and specialists. Most programs also include classes on inclusive education and diversity to prepare you for working in a variety of classroom settings.

How Long Does It Take To Get Certified as a Special Education Teacher in NY?

The certification process usually takes between four and six years, depending on your chosen path. You'll spend about four years earning a bachelor's degree, followed by testing, student teaching, and the application process for initial certification. If you pursue a master's degree for professional certification, plan on an additional one to two years of study.

Do I Need a Master's Degree To Teach Special Education in New York?

Yes you do need a master's degree, but not right away. You can start teaching with an initial certificate, which only requires a bachelor's degree and completion of a teacher preparation program. However, you'll need to earn a master's degree within five years to upgrade to professional certification and continue teaching long-term in the state.

Do Special Ed Teachers Get Paid More Than General Ed Teachers?

In some cases, yes, particularly for teachers who hold advanced degrees or work in high-demand districts. While pay scales vary by region and school district, special education teachers often receive additional stipends or higher starting salaries due to their specialized training. The median salary in New York tends to reflect this premium, with experienced teachers earning well above the state's average for educators.

Is It Hard To Become a Special Ed Teacher?

The path can be challenging, but it's also deeply rewarding. Earning certification requires dedication, strong communication skills, and compassion for students with diverse learning needs. With the right preparation and support, you can build a fulfilling career that makes a meaningful difference in students' lives and communities.

Explore Special Education Programs

Explore accredited bachelor's and master's programs in special education approved by the NYSED. Visit Learn.org to compare certification pathways, find flexible online options, and start planning your teaching career in New York.