The master’s degree you earn in special education could allow you to be a positive influence in the lives of others.
Why Get a Master’s in Special Education?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the year 2020-21 saw 15% of all public school pupils receive special education per the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). In the same way, several states, including California, report shortages of qualified particular education specialists. When you enter or advance in special education, you influence lives and communities. While at the same time, possessing a master’s degree distinguishes you as a competent candidate for various roles and usually raises your earnings and salary potential.
What Careers Can I Pursue With a Master’s in Special Education?
Alongside the teaching profession, you can choose from other careers in high demand that could allow you to fulfil your desire to help students who have disabilities. Many people who get master’s degrees in special education or education are preparing to instruct in a classroom. Still, a master’s in special education could lead to a range of jobs that assist those with disabilities or children who have.
A graduate degree will make you a more attractive candidate for a job. Why? Because schools are shifting towards employing teachers with special qualifications who can instruct a wider variety of children in the classrooms.
Here are nine career options you could pursue with a master’s degree in special education.
1. Classroom teacher
- Average annual salary $61,820
The projected increase in the per cent of employment between 2020 to 2030 is a 4percent
Special education teachers assist students with disabilities in all grades. If you’d like to be a teacher in a classroom or teach directly, this job might be the perfect job for you. As an educator in special education, you can teach at the elementary, preschool, middle, and high school levels.
In certain situations, you might spend time planning and making slight educational modifications for students with mild or moderate disabilities.
If you are working with students who have more challenging challenges, You can assist in teaching the life skills needed to let your students enjoy the most independence they can as they grow older. Special education teachers create specific plans and strategies to accommodate their students’ needs. If you’re a fan of tailoring approaches to accommodate students with special needs, you’re bound to be a fan of this method.
Even though you could become an educator in special education without a degree in education, having a master’s degree in special education won’t just make you a better-qualified candidate. Still, a higher level of education will also make you a better teacher. Teachers who have a master’s degree usually earn a higher wage. Special education teachers are highly sought-after; by taking on or progressing in this job, you will be able to make an impact on children.
2. Educational Diagnostician or tester
- Average annual earnings are $80,078
Proposed cent increase in employment between 2020 and 2030 The projected increase is 7 %
If you’re interested in helping in early intervention and the diagnosis of particular needs, you might be interested in becoming an educator, diagnostician, or tester. In these positions, you’ll evaluate children to understand their needs and progress. Diagnosticians typically interact with parents and teachers to design the appropriate learning programs and assess the student’s progress on the path. Master’s degrees are nearly always required to become an expert in diagnostics, and this is an excellent opportunity to utilize your training to assist others.
3. Adjunct professor
- The average annual pay is $88,064
The projected increase in the percentage of employment between 2020 and 2030 is 12 per cent.
Some community colleges, as well as some four-year institutions and colleges, recruit master’s degree holders to instruct in adjunct professorships. It is possible to pursue a master’s degree in special education to instruct in this setting for those who want to educate and inspire future Special Education teachers.
4. Clinical unique education roles
- Average annual salary: Varies
A doctorate in special education may also help you to work in clinical situations. Hospitals, for instance, might provide early intervention positions to assist people with disabilities and children to receive the support they require. You can also apply the master’s certificate in special education you earned to assist in coordinating education for children who are in hospital for prolonged periods or in rehabilitation facilities after suffering an injury or illness. You might also be able to offer therapy, education or rehabilitation services for those who are disabled in other situations.
5. Behavior Intervention Specialist
- Annual salary range: $52,388 – $66,861.
The projected increase in the percentage of employment between 2020 and 2030 The projected increase in employment is 25%
A behaviour interventionist observes and assesses each student individually. He advises parents, teachers and students to improve their behaviour and facilitate students’ success. If you’d like to be part of the people committed to aiding a student’s progress, this job could be a great fit. As a specialist in behaviour is a possibility to work at some or all of the schools, at a residential treatment facility, as well as a group home or as part of an intervention programme for children.
6. Special Education Instructional Coordinator
- Average annual salary $63,740
- Proposed cent increase in employment between 2020 and 2030 7.7%
Instructional coordinators assist in the creation of personalized education programs, or IEPs, for students. If you’re the instructor, you’ll collaborate with school leaders and teachers to create plans tailored to meet students’ needs.
7. Consultant or instructor who is independent
- The average annual salary of $69,309
The projected increase in the percentage of employment between 2020 and 2030 is 6.6%
You can offer your expertise in special education to the state department of education or schools. As a consultant with an advanced level, you may instruct teachers on how to be more effective in their teaching.
8. Program manager or director
- Average annual earnings 126 897 dollars
The projected increase in employment between 2020 and 2030 is 24 per cent
A master’s degree will help you manage special education programs or develop curricula or programs that satisfy the needs of students. Leadership and classroom experience can aid you in this vital job.
9. Specialist positions
- The average annual salary varies.
A master’s degree in special education will also help you prepare to fill specialized positions within the school or district. Examples include:
- Specialist in resource management
- Transition team specialist
- Curriculum adaptation specialist
An M.A. with additional authorizations may help you become a specialist in reading or an adaptable fitness (P.E.) teacher.
Next Steps in Your Teaching Career
The master’s degree you earn in special education could help you find a rewarding career. The field is filled with possibilities. Check out our video below to find out more about the PLNU master’s degree program is an enthralling community that helps students succeed in their field as well as have life-changing experiences during the course.
A significant next step for you could be to learn more about Point Loma University’s Master of Arts in Special Education, which includes the courses you’ll be taking and more details on how the program operates.
