A master’s degree in special education opens the door for advanced roles, specialized positions and leadership opportunities in the field of education. Graduates often pursue careers as special education teachers, behavior specialists and instructional coordinators, making a powerful difference in the lives of students across schools and districts.
Determining whether a degree in special education is right for you requires careful consideration of your long-term goals, passions and interests. This guide explores the curriculum, skills and career opportunities offered by graduate programs, such as Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education K-12, to help you make an informed decision about your future.
Why Should You Consider a Master’s in Special Education?
Special education teachers make a profound impact on the lives of students, both in and outside of the classroom. With over 15% of students aged three to 21 receiving special education services nationwide each year, schools and educational organizations are continually seeking well-prepared educators who can support the needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities. These teachers help students overcome academic, social and behavioral challenges by creating inclusive, equitable spaces where they can participate and feel confident in the learning process.
Completing a master’s degree in special education enables experienced teaching professionals to advance their careers and gain valuable expertise that supports diverse learners. By exploring individualized instruction techniques, evidence-based interventions and collaborative teaching practices, graduates create an impactful learning environment that helps special education students reach their goals.
What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Special Education Program
A master’s in special education program covers a comprehensive curriculum, exploring assessment and teaching strategies for students with behavioral, social, learning and developmental disabilities. Core coursework for the program focuses on topics such as the diagnosis of exceptional learners, behavior interventions and advanced methods of teaching students with disabilities. Students also cover relevant topics such as ethics, advocacy and special education law, preparing them to navigate diverse learning environments.
The program develops both soft and technical skills that graduates take into their teaching careers. Students learn how to create individualized education programs (IEPs), use evidence-based instructional strategies and analyze student behavior to support learning. They also develop essential soft skills, like empathy, patience and verbal communication, which create a welcoming and accessible classroom environment.
Careers You Can Pursue With a Degree in Special Education
Completing an advanced degree in special education opens the door for a wide range of career paths within schools, districts and other educational organizations. Some of the most common roles graduates pursue include:
- Special education teacher: These educators adapt lessons, teach basic skills and provide behavioral strategies for students with learning, mental, emotional or physical disabilities.
- Elementary educator: Elementary-level teachers instruct young students on basic subjects, such as math, science and art, to prepare them for middle or secondary school.
- Postsecondary instructor: Often referred to as professors or faculty, these educators teach academic subjects in colleges, universities and other postsecondary institutions.
- Instructional coordinator: These professionals oversee teaching practices and curricula, working with schools and teachers to implement best practices in the classroom.
- Behavior intervention specialist: These specialists develop and implement strategies to improve behavior and support learning for individuals with behavioral, social or emotional challenges.
Why Should You Choose A-State’s Online Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education K-12?
Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching – Special Education K-12 program offers working professionals a beneficial educational pathway to advance their teaching careers and gain the skills to support diverse learners. Using convenient virtual learning platforms, students explore methods for assessing and teaching students with a wide range of needs, and learn how to create safe, inclusive learning environments.
The program offers a straightforward pathway to teaching licensure in K-12 schools, enabling students to begin teaching in as little as 14 weeks. After completing the first semester and the necessary Praxis exams, students can apply for a provisional teaching license in the state of Arkansas and begin their careers while continuing coursework online.
A-State’s MAT Special Education K-12 program prepares graduates with the skills and expertise to create inclusive learning environments that make a meaningful impact on the lives of students. When determining whether the program is right for you, ask yourself the following questions:
- What are your long-term teaching goals?
- Do you want to work with students who have mental, physical and emotional disabilities?
- Are you passionate about creating equitable learning environments?
- Do you want to advance your teaching career and take on specialized roles?
- Are you planning to apply for your teaching license in the state of Arkansas?
Explore A-State’s Online Master’s Programs Today
Thoughtful, dedicated special education teachers make a powerful impact in the lives of students of all abilities. Using tailored instructional strategies, behavioral interventions and individualized support, these educators create inclusive learning environments that promote academic success and personal growth.
Earning a graduate degree allows special education teachers to advance their careers and develop the skills to become leaders within their schools and communities. To learn more about how A-State’s online MAT – Special Education K-12 program can help you reach your goals, contact an engagement specialist today.