How to Become a Special Education Teacher

This career path is not just a job; it's a calling to make a significant difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs. The overall need for special education teachers is expected to remain stable through 2032, with an average 33,500 job openings each year. For those interested in special education at the preschool level, employment is expected to grow 3% with early intervention for developmental disorders becoming more common.

Whether you're aspiring to become a preschool, elementary, or high school special education teacher, understanding the landscape, from the necessary degrees and credentials, to the skills needed to be successful in the role, is essential.

Special Education Teacher Degrees

Pursuing a career in special education begins with obtaining the right education. A bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for becoming a special education teacher, with many aspiring educators opting for a degree emphasis in special education or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These programs provide foundational knowledge in teaching methods, classroom management, and the principles of special education.

Bachelor’s Degrees

For those drawn to working with young children but aiming for a career in special education, the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education (ECE) is an option, though it's not specialized for this field. In the realm of teaching, a bachelor's degree serves as a foundational step preceding a master's degree, where specialization becomes important. While your undergraduate major can vary, there are bachelor's programs tailored specifically for those committed to an educational path from the outset, such as a BA in Liberal Studies with a Multiple Subject Credential track.

To venture into special education, a master's degree in one of the specialized areas is required. At the bachelor's level, programs like ECE often focus on broader aspects of child development, emphasizing how teaching practices need to adapt to accommodate the emotional, social, and physical needs of young learners. These programs offer valuable experiences through fieldwork and practicums with a more generalized scope. Depending on your aspirations within special education, you might tailor your practical experiences to settings involving students with diverse needs during your undergraduate studies.

Master’s Degrees

Advanced degrees are the primary pathway to becoming a special education teacher. There are a variety of master's programs available, some with a specific emphasis on special education, and different specializations within special education. These programs focus on developing skills and knowledge in child disabilities and what strategies should be used to teach these students.

For example, if you are interested in working with students who have autism, you will want to consider degree programs like a Master of Arts in Education, Autism, Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, or Master of Arts in Special Education, Autism that provides an in-depth curriculum on autism including the characteristics and diagnosis.

There are also a variety of other master’s degrees that can help you jumpstart your special education career, including a Master of Arts in Special Education, Early Childhood and Master of Arts in Special Education, Teaching and Learning.

Getting Your Special Education Teaching Credential in California

In California, obtaining a special education teaching credential, also known as an Education Specialist credential, is a necessary step in the journey to becoming a special education teacher. The process begins with passing either the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET), depending on the age level of children you would like to teach. An elementary special education teacher must pass the CBEST, and a middle or high school education teacher must pass the CSET in their preferred subject. Special education teachers must also pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA), and a U.S. Constitution course or examination.

In order to receive your Education Specialist Preliminary Credential, you must complete a Commission on Teaching Credentialing-approved Education Specialist Credential program in a specialty area. The program should include coursework related to English language skills and the diagnosis of developmental delays, technology use in the classroom, and health education and CPR. You will also be evaluated through the Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA) for Mild to Moderate and Extensive Support Needs students. Lastly, you’ll need a formal recommendation from a degree program sponsor.

Once the Preliminary Credential is obtained, special education teachers are expected to complete an induction program, which provides support and mentorship for new teachers. Education Specialists must also work through Level II special education content, which is often part of California's teaching preparation programs. Upon successful completion of the induction program, educators can apply for a Clear Credential, which signifies full certification.

Special education teachers in California may also need to obtain additional authorizations or credentials, depending on their area of specialization. At UMass Global, we offer specific education degree programs that fulfill authorization and credential requirements. Keep in mind you will need to hold a teaching credential in order to enroll in an authorization program. Our credential and authorization programs include:

• Added Authorization, Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Added Authorization, Early Childhood Special Education
• MA in Teaching, Preliminary Early Childhood Special Education Credential
• MA in Teaching, Preliminary Education Specialist with Extensive Support Needs Credential
• MA in Teaching, Preliminary Education Specialist with Mild to Moderate Support Needs Credential
• Preliminary Special Education Credential, Early Childhood SPED
• Preliminary Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs

What Does a Special Education Teacher Do?

Special education teachers are the unsung heroes in the educational landscape. These dedicated professionals work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.

Special educators are tasked with developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student, a process that involves assessing students' abilities, setting educational goals, and tracking their progress. These teachers work closely with parents, school counselors, administrators, and other healthcare professionals to provide the most effective and supportive educational environment for their students.

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher

Being an early childhood special education teacher requires a deep understanding of child development. They are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of various developmental delays and disabilities, such as speech and language delays, motor skill deficits, or sensory processing disorders.

Creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment is another critical aspect of the job. This involves setting up a classroom that is safe both physically and developmentally, welcoming, and stimulating for young learners. Teachers must carefully consider the arrangement of furniture, materials, and resources to promote exploration, curiosity, and active engagement.

Early childhood special education teachers work closely with families, as well as other professionals such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, to provide a holistic approach to supporting children with special needs.

Elementary Special Education Teacher

Elementary special education teachers play a crucial role in the foundational years of a child's education. Working with children from kindergarten through fifth grade, these educators are focused on teaching basic skills and concepts that form the building blocks for future learning.

Elementary special education teacher responsibilities include assessing children's skills to determine their educational needs, developing and implementing IEPs, and adapting lesson plans to meet each child's unique learning style. Collaboration is key in this role, as these teachers often work with a team of educators and healthcare specialists to provide a holistic educational experience.

Secondary Special Education Teacher

The transition from elementary to secondary special education brings a shift in focus towards preparing students for life beyond school. They work closely with students, their families, and other professionals to develop comprehensive transition plans that address areas such as further education, employment, and independent living skills. By collaborating with various stakeholders, these teachers ensure that their students have the necessary tools, resources, and support to succeed beyond the classroom.

One of the key aspects of being a special education teacher is the close relationships they build with their students. By establishing a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment, these teachers create a safe space where students feel valued, respected, and supported. During middle school, special education teachers face the challenges of dealing with students undergoing puberty, which can impact emotional and social behavior.

This is where modifications are necessary, boosting self-confidence. Special education teachers advocate for their students' rights and collaborate with other professionals to provide appropriate accommodations and modifications.

Skills Needed to Become a Special Education Teacher

Becoming a successful special education teacher requires a unique set of skills. Cultivating these skills is an ongoing process that requires dedication, reflection, and a commitment to professional growth. Special education teachers must be lifelong learners, continually seeking out opportunities to enhance their knowledge and abilities. Some of the common skills needed to become a special education teacher include:

• Communication: Strong communication skills are crucial for explaining concepts in ways that meet the individual needs of students. This includes the ability to use nonverbal communication and exaggerated gestures effectively.
• Critical-thinking: As a special education teacher, you must be able to solve problems as they arise throughout the school day. It takes strong critical thinking skills and creativity to help manage classroom dynamics and individual behaviors, particularly in the face of conflict.
• Collaboration: Special education teachers need to work cooperatively with parents, school counselors, and other support professionals to foster a supportive learning environment and advocate for the needs of their students.
• Empathy and patience: Special education teachers must exhibit high levels of empathy and patience, understanding the unique challenges faced by each student. It may take a long period of time for students to master new academic and behavioral skills.
• Data management: The ability to organize and analyze educational data helps in tracking student progress and adapting teaching methods. This part of the job is necessary due to the use of IEPs.

Do Special Education Teachers Make More than General Education Teachers?

In many cases, special education teachers do earn higher salaries than their general education counterparts. This can be attributed to the additional responsibilities and challenges that come with teaching students with disabilities and special needs. Special education roles also require more specialized schooling and certification, which contributes to higher pay.

However, salaries can vary widely depending on the school district, geographic location, and level of experience. As of March 2024, on average, special education teachers in California make $69,199, compared to $64,965 for general education teachers. Special education teachers can also make upwards of $90,000, whereas the cap for general education teachers is $79,230. It's important for aspiring special education teachers to research salary trends in their area to get a better understanding of what to expect.

Make a Difference in Special Needs Education with UMass Global

The journey to become a special education teacher requires a deep commitment. The skills and personalized approach needed in this profession not only prepare educators to face a variety of classroom situations but also underscore the importance of dedication, empathy, and patience in shaping the educational experiences of their students. For those looking to pursue this important profession in California, UMass Global offers special education degree programs tailored to various areas of need, including autism, to help you achieve your goal. Request more information about our Master of Arts in Teaching programs or apply today.