While all teachers are special, not all of them are special education teachers. Reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) say job prospects have never been better for graduates of special education teaching preparation programs. Because of shortages of qualified trained professionals, many school districts around the country are offering salary incentives and alternative licensure programs to lure teachers into this high-demand educational field.
Today's special education teacher training programs qualify individuals to serve the needs of students with a range of learning and physical disabilities. Special education teachers typically work at the elementary, middle, and secondary-school levels, although some kindergarten and pre-school special education programs attempt to identify and remedy learning problems in children as early as possible.
All states have their own licensing and certification requirements for those who want to enter the special education teaching professions. Under traditional licensing requirements, new teachers in each state must have a bachelor's degree along with certification of completion of a teacher preparation program with a special education focus. Some states require teachers to hold a master's degree special education.
But, because of shortages, some states have accelerated special education training programs or abbreviated requirements that allow new teachers into the classrooms so long as they continue their training on weekends, holiday intensives, or during semester breaks. Coursework may focus on educational psychology, learning disability remediation, early childhood development, and special needs program planning.
Employment in special education is expected to grow faster than the national average for all occupations through 2014, the BLS says, particularly in inner cities and rural areas.
