Special Education Degree: What Are the Available Jobs Aside from Teaching?
Committing to pursuing a special education degree signals a dedication to positively influencing the lives of those with disabilities. While the demand for teachers in this noble field is high, the realization might dawn that the traditional classroom setting isn’t the perfect fit. The question then arises: What other doors does a special education degree open?
Is it hard to be a teacher?
Teaching, a profession laden with purpose and impact, poses inherent challenges. The journey involves managing diverse learning needs, deciphering individualized education plans (IEPs), and cultivating an inclusive environment. The mental and emotional toll of such responsibilities prompts individuals with a special education degree to introspect, pondering if their skills and passions could find a better fit elsewhere.
The multifaceted demands of a special education teacher extend beyond delivering lessons. Crafting adaptive strategies, fostering a supportive atmosphere, and engaging with students on an individual level demand resilience and creativity. Acknowledging the formidable challenges is the first step towards exploring alternative paths that align more closely with personal aspirations.
Does a special education degree have other jobs aside from teaching?
Undoubtedly! A special education degree serves as a gateway to a diverse array of professions, extending its influence far beyond the conventional classroom setting. Here, we explore each alternative career option in greater detail, unveiling the distinctive avenues they offer for professional fulfillment:
1. Publishing Company Trainer
As a publishing company trainer, you play a pivotal role in guiding educators on the effective utilization of special education materials. Your expertise ensures that these resources contribute seamlessly to the learning journey.
Potential Salary: The remuneration for this role varies, contingent on factors such as the company’s scale and your level of experience.
2. Textbook/Curriculum Sales Representative
In the role of a textbook or curriculum sales representative, your primary responsibility is to propagate educational materials with a specific focus on special education. This involves marketing these resources to schools and educators.
Potential Salary: This position often operates on a commission-based structure, with your earnings directly tied to your sales performance.
3. Field Trip Coordinator
As a field trip coordinator, you become the architect of educational outings, extending the boundaries of learning beyond the classroom. Your role involves meticulous planning and execution of these enriching experiences.
Potential Salary: The average salary for this role is approximately $46,638 per year.
4. Tutor
Working as a tutor, especially at renowned learning centers like Sylvan Learning Center, entails providing specialized tutoring services tailored to the unique needs of individual students. This role requires a deep understanding of diverse learning styles.
Potential Salary: Tutors can expect to make anywhere from $53,717 to $53,717 annually, depending on their location and the size of the tutoring facility.
5. Post-secondary Instructor
A postsecondary instructor specializes in educating at the collegiate level, with a distinct emphasis on special education. This role demands a profound understanding of advanced concepts and the ability to impart knowledge effectively.
Potential Salary: Compensation is commensurate with academic qualifications, reflecting the advanced expertise required.
6. Remedial Skills Instructor
Guiding individuals through basic skills programs for diverse age groups is the primary focus of a remedial skills instructor. This role contributes significantly to foundational skill development.
Potential Salary: Salaries for Remedial Skills Instructors depend on the organization and the scope of the programs they manage.
7. Fundraising Professional
Stepping into the role of a fundraising professional involves mobilizing financial support for organizations dedicated to special needs causes. This position requires strong networking and communication skills.
Potential Salary: The salary range is diverse, with an average of around $57,888 per year.
8. Lobbyists for education reform
As a lobbyist for education reform, your advocacy efforts center around driving positive changes in education legislation at various levels. This role demands a keen understanding of the legislative landscape.
Potential Salary: Compensation varies, with an average of around $62,034 per year.
9. Pediatric Hospital Educator
Addressing the educational needs of young patients in pediatric hospitals is the core responsibility of a pediatric hospital educator. This role requires adaptability and a compassionate approach to patient care.
Potential Salary: Salaries vary based on the hospital and location.
10. Training Professionals in corporate settings
Serving as a training professional in corporate settings involves delivering employee development training and drawing on your educational expertise to enhance workforce skills.
Potential Salary: Salaries average around $55,738 per year.
11. Curriculum Specialist
A curriculum specialist is tasked with crafting and enhancing educational curricula tailored to specific needs. This role requires a deep understanding of educational frameworks and innovative instructional design.
Potential Salary: Compensation varies, with an average of around $63,740 per year.
12. Educational Technologist
Educational technologists play a crucial role in integrating technology into educational settings, enhancing learning experiences for students. This role requires staying abreast of technological advancements.
Potential Salary: Compensation is dependent on the role and organization.
13. School Administrator
As a school administrator, your responsibilities extend to supervising school operations and programs and ensuring the smooth functioning of educational institutions. This role demands leadership and organizational acumen.
Potential Salary: Significant, with an average of around $110,463 per year.
14. School Counselor
School counselors guide students on personal and academic matters, fostering holistic development. This role requires empathy and effective communication skills.
Potential Salary: Salaries for school counselors average around $57,888 per year.
15. School Psychologist
Focusing on students’ mental health and overall well-being, a school psychologist engages in individual and group therapy sessions. This role is crucial for addressing social and emotional challenges among students.
Potential Salary: Salaries for school psychologists average around $55,970 per year.
Would you need additional skills?
The foundational skills from a special education degree provide a robust base, yet some roles may necessitate additional expertise or certifications. For example, a curriculum specialist might benefit from proficiency in curriculum design, while a fundraising professional could excel with strong networking and communication skills. Recognizing these supplementary requirements becomes pivotal in making informed career choices.
What would be your next steps?
Embarking on a journey beyond traditional teaching involves strategic steps. Self-reflection to identify personal strengths, aligning them with potential roles, and proactive networking are key. Gaining relevant certifications and seeking mentorship enhance the transition process, ensuring a smooth trajectory toward a fulfilling career outside the conventional classroom setting.
There are other jobs available for a special education degree
A special education degree is not a rigid pathway confined solely to teaching roles. The skill set acquired opens doors to a myriad of professions where impact and fulfillment go hand in hand. Beyond the classroom, whether influencing education policies, crafting curricula, or guiding students on a broader scale, the Special Education Degree unveils a world of opportunities. If the conventional teaching landscape doesn’t resonate, rest assured that your special education degree is the key to unlocking a multitude of fulfilling career possibilities.