By: The Capella University Editorial Team
Reading time: 5 minutes
Today’s educators regularly support students with a wide range of learning, behavioral and developmental needs.
For professionals who want to serve these students more effectively, graduate study in special education can help build practical skills in instruction, collaboration and student support. Special education coursework can also be valuable for other professionals who support students, including paraprofessionals, school counselors and school psychologists.
For some, the decision to study special education is also personal. They may have supported a family member, child or student with learning differences and want to advocate more effectively for inclusive instruction and services. That experience can inspire a deeper interest in helping students access the support they need to succeed.
What preparation is typically needed to work with students who receive special education services, and what kinds of roles may connect to this area of study? The answers depend on your background, career goals and state requirements.
Special education programs focus on how to support students with disabilities and diverse learning needs.
Special education includes more than students with specific learning disabilities. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, eligible students may have autism, intellectual disabilities, emotional disturbance, sensory disabilities, orthopedic impairments, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities or other recognized disabilities.
Preparation for roles involving special education students varies by position and employer. Many professionals begin with a bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, psychology or a related field. Some roles may also call for graduate study in education with a special education focus. State licensure or other credentials may be required depending on the role and location, so it’s important to review your state’s requirements carefully.
In Capella’s MS in Education, Special Education Teaching program, students explore how to:
Many people who pursue graduate study in special education are classroom teachers who want to deepen their expertise. Depending on their background and goals, professionals in counseling, student support or related fields may also find this area of study useful. Some graduates may also apply their knowledge in community organizations, training environments or other settings that support individuals with a variety of learning needs.
Across settings, professionals who work with students with a variety of learning needs often benefit from patience, flexibility, empathy and strong communication skills. A solid understanding of student behavior, individual differences and inclusive instructional practices can also be valuable in supporting learner success.
Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with an MS Ed in Special Education Teaching.
Job titles to explore*
Employment settings to explore*
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals. Job titles on this list may require licensure, certification, endorsement or other professional designations. Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a program. This specialization does not lead to license, endorsement, or other professional credential. Teachers are advised to contact their school district to determine whether a program may qualify for salary advancement.
A special education degree may be a good choice if you want to support students with disabilities, strengthen your teaching practice or pursue an education-related career. Its value depends on your professional goals, current credentials and state requirements needed for your intended position.
A special education degree can help prepare you to support students with learning disabilities in roles such as classroom teaching, student support, counseling-related settings and advocacy-focused work.
Yes. Teachers often pursue special education training to strengthen their ability to support students with diverse learning needs and improve classroom practice.
They may. State licensure can be required for certain roles involving special education students, and requirements vary by state.
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