How to become a special education teacher

Children enter the classroom with unique backgrounds, cultures, family dynamics, and home environments, and teachers design curriculums for the needs of the majority. For neurotypical and able-bodied children, a standardized classroom approach is often sufficient. Special education demands a more individualized approach.

Professionals in this field employ a variety of accommodations, including specialized tools, techniques, and learning strategies, to optimize the potential of their students. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools are mandated to create individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to the needs of children with disabilities. IEPs are designed collaboratively by teachers and parents to guarantee the most beneficial educational experience for each student.

Special education teacher requirements

Becoming a special education teacher requires a bachelor’s degree. In some states, you can major in education or a chosen content area and minor in special education, while other states require a special education major. You will also need to complete a student-teaching program, earn state licensure, and undergo an extensive background check to teach in a public-school setting. Learn more about this process in our complete guide to becoming a teacher.

Step 1 – Bachelor’s in special education

As part of a bachelor’s in special education, you will learn about developmental domains, how to devise IEPs tailored to each student’s needs, and develop expertise in behavior management and intervention strategies. If your bachelor’s degree doesn’t include embedded teacher prep, you’ll need to complete one separately. Teacher prep programs typically include field experience, such as student teaching or internships.

Step 2 – Choose an area of focus (optional)

If you want to focus on particular disabilities or disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or emotional and behavioral disorders, you can get additional training through Continuing Education Units (CEUs), specialized teacher prep, or a post-bachelor certification program. However, the most common way to specialize is by earning a master’s degree.

Step 3 – Pass required exam and obtain state certification

Each state has its own requirements for teacher certification, and these can vary significantly. Many states use the Praxis series, but others have their own state-specific exams or use alternative testing systems like the National Evaluation Series (NES) or state teacher performance assessments. After completing the required exams, apply for your state’s special education teaching certification, which may require additional training, exams, and a background check.

Step 4 – Master’s in special education (optional)

Around 50% of special education teachers have a master’s degree, and 88% of districts offer a pay raise for earning your master’s. Certain school districts require teachers to earn a master’s degree within 5 or so years of starting their careers, while in other districts, a master’s is required for the highest level of licensure.

Earning a master’s in special education enables you to provide more focused support to students with diverse learning needs. You may also qualify for leadership positions or enter advocacy roles to influence educational policies and the promotion of inclusive learning environments. If your bachelor’s didn’t include teacher prep, or you majored in something other than education, consider a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) with a focus on special education to fulfill certification requirements and become eligible for a teaching license.

Special education teacher salary information

While short-term earnings with a bachelor’s in special ed are lower than average, long-term salaries tend to be slightly higher. According to the Census Bureau, the average salary for bachelor’s degree holders aged 25-34 is $59,600, whereas special education teachers earn a median of just under $62,000. Salaries tend to increase modestly with the age of the students being taught, meaning that teaching older students generally results in slightly higher pay.

What can you do with a special education degree besides teaching?

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in special education without committing to a 4-year degree, consider becoming a paraeducator or teaching assistant. For those with a master’s degree, opportunities in school administration and other advanced positions are available. Alternatively, if you’re keen on earning a bachelor’s degree but not interested in teaching, a career as a sign language interpreter may be the right choice.

Final thoughts

Children with special needs were historically excluded from mainstream education until special education became mandatory in 1975. Today, advocacy efforts and advances in research have created better opportunities for children with disabilities and other special needs, ensuring their right to free and appropriate education. Special education teachers, administrators, and advocates play a crucial role in supporting these students and their families.

Approximately 15% of all public-school children in America receive special education services as part of their routine school day. Though there is a significant demand for educators across various disciplines, it is particularly pronounced for those trained in special education, ensuring a consistent availability of job opportunities in this field.