Post Grad Certificates in Special Education
Special education entails working with students that have emotional, learning, mental and physical disabilities. Special education teachers make sure that students with learning disabilities get an education according to their limitations. They assess their knowledge and skills in order to determine their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, special education teachers develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and transition plans as well.
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These days, children with special needs are being identified earlier on in growing years. This is why the demand for special education teachers is soaring for young children. Being a special education teacher is also one of the top-five “happiest jobs” according to Forbes. This is because the employment of special education teachers is predicted to increase by 17% during the next 10 years, which is about as fast as the average for all jobs. Growth is anticipated due to the soaring enrollment and continuous demand for special education services.
Being a special education teacher provides a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment as well. But you must remember that helping special education students can also be stressful and physically demanding.
Career Prospects
The employment for special education teachers is very positive as there is lot of demand for these professionals. They are required in public and private schools. Special education teachers can also find jobs in charter schools, childcare centers, and private religious and secular schools. Some of these teachers also work in residential facilities. Special education teachers' salaries range between $35,000 and $83,000 a year.
Education
Aspiring special education teachers must hold a bachelor's degree in order to enter this field. Students can opt to obtain a degree in special education or major in elementary education or subjects such as chemistry, and minor in special education.
Students in these programs receive instruction in various types of disabilities. Some of the courses of study include general special education, sensory disability, multiple disabilities, early childhood and sensory disability, orientation & mobility. In addition to classroom learning, candidates also do fieldwork to get hands-on training in the field.
Licenses
Special education teachers in public schools also require state licenses just like other teachers in public schools. The requirements for license/certification vary by state but candidates generally need a bachelor's degree and complete a teacher preparation program. In addition, they should also have supervised experience in teaching.
Post Grad Certificates in Special Education
A variety of post-grad certificates are offered in the field of special education. Students can pursue programs such as learning difficulties support, learning and behavior support or high support needs. Some of the topics included in these programs are effective instruction, communication and curriculum issues.
These programs are designed to extend the competence of teachers to educate and support students with special educational needs. To pursue a post grad certificate in special education, candidates must hold an approved degree or equivalent qualification in education, disability studies, physical therapy or a related field. Other requirements may vary by school or type of certificate.
In addition to regular schools, online institutes also offer certificates and degrees for aspiring special education teachers. The online programs can be suitable for working professionals who seek advanced credentials to improve their profile or the ones who want to switch careers.