Exploring the path of a special education major: careers and insights

Key takeaways about a special education major

• Special education majors prepare for careers supporting students with diverse learning needs.

• You’ll study education theory, behavior management, and specialized teaching strategies.

• Core courses cover psychology, assessment, and inclusive classroom design.

• Graduates can pursue teaching, advocacy, or related education roles.

• Special education majors earn competitive salaries and high job stability.

What is special education?

Special education is all about teaching and supporting students who learn differently. These students may have physical, emotional, developmental, or cognitive differences that require unique teaching strategies. Unlike traditional classrooms, special education programs use customized learning plans to meet individual needs while helping students succeed academically and socially.

As a special education major, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to make learning more inclusive. You’ll not only teach core subjects like reading and math but also develop individualized education programs (IEPs), collaborate with other teachers, and advocate for your students inside and outside the classroom.

Special education vs. general education teaching

General education teachers usually follow a set curriculum and adapt it slightly for different learners. Special education teachers, however, customize instruction daily to match the specific needs of each student. This could mean breaking lessons into smaller steps, using assistive technology, or offering extra emotional support.

If you’re comparing special education vs. general education teaching, think of it like this: general education teaching is about guiding a class as a whole, while special education teaching is about meeting students where they are and helping them grow at their own pace.

Core courses for special education majors

Your coursework will blend education theory with hands-on classroom strategies. Expect classes such as:

• Introduction to special education
• Child and adolescent development
• Behavior management in the classroom
• Inclusive curriculum design
• Assessment and evaluation of learning needs
• Collaboration with families and support staff

Many programs also include student-teaching experiences, where you’ll work directly with students under the supervision of licensed teachers.

Certificates needed for special education

Most states require special education teachers to be licensed or certified. This usually means completing a bachelor’s degree in special education, passing teaching exams, and completing supervised teaching hours. Some states also ask for additional certifications based on the age group or specific needs you want to teach—such as autism spectrum disorders or emotional/behavioral disorders.

If you’re looking into scholarships, there are plenty of financial aid opportunities to help cover these certification costs.

Common double majors or minors with special education

Pairing your special education major with another field can make you more versatile. Common pairings include:

• Elementary education: Prepares you to teach both general and special ed classes.
• Psychology: Helps you better understand how students think and learn.
• Speech and language pathology: Useful if you want to support communication needs.
• Social work: Adds a strong foundation in advocacy and family support.

Skills you’ll gain as a special education major

This degree is more than academics—it builds real-world skills that are valuable in and outside of the classroom. These include:

• Patience and empathy

• Creative problem solving

• Adaptability in teaching approaches

• Communication and teamwork

• Advocacy for students’ rights

Career paths for special education majors

Many graduates go on to become licensed special education teachers, working in public or private schools. Others move into roles like:

• Educational consultant

• Advocate for disability rights

• Special education coordinator or administrator

• Early intervention specialist

• Nonprofit or policy work in education

With the skills gained in this major, you’ll be equipped to make a difference across many settings.

How much will I earn with a special education degree?

Salary can vary by state and level of education, but the average special education teacher salary in the U.S. is around $62,000 per year. Teachers with advanced degrees or certifications often earn more. Plus, special education is considered a high-demand field, which means strong job stability and opportunities for growth.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025

Notable schools for special education majors

Some colleges and universities are especially well-known for their special education programs. While rankings can vary, some schools often appear on top lists, like:

• Vanderbilt University

• University of Kansas
  

• Boston College

Use Scout College Search to find even more programs that fit your goals, location, and budget.

Getting started with your special education major

If you’re feeling inspired to pursue this path, start by researching programs, comparing degree requirements, and applying for scholarships. Tools like Scholly Scholarships make it easier to find funding that fits your profile. To help cover additional schooling costs, check out the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship and other scholarships for special education majors. Remember—this degree isn’t just about academics. It’s about building a career where you can change lives every day.