What Special Education Teachers DoAll special education teachers not listed separately. Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities. This includes using assistive technology aids when needed, such as Braille writers and computer software, to communicate with students. They also teach basic skills to students with severe disabilities.
- Assess students' skills and determine their educational needs, adapt general lessons to meet students' needs, and develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student.
- Implement IEPs, assess and track students' progress, update IEPs throughout the school year to reflect students' progress and goals, and discuss students' progress with parents, other teachers, counselors, and administrators.
- Prepare and help students transition from grade to grade and from school to life outside of school.
Special Education Teachers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings2,900 Annually
Median Earnings
$87,600 in California
$67,430 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Relating with or serving others
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Learning
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Instructing
- Learning Strategies
Go Deeper: Special Education Teachers Explained
Special Education TeachersExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
Post-Bac FellowshipA post-baccalaureate fellowship typically offers recent college graduates the opportunity to gain work experience, conduct research, and further develop their skills in a specific field, enhancing their qualifications for more advanced career opportunities.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ Finish in 1-3 years
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
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