Jobs In 2024

Special Education Jobs Outside of the Classroom – Exploring Alternate Professions 2023/24 

Are you a passionate special education teacher seeking exciting special education jobs outside the traditional classroom? This guide is for you if you want to leverage your expertise and make a difference in innovative roles. Whether you’re a seasoned educator craving a fresh challenge or encountering difficulties finding a job in your field, discover how these exceptional opportunities can be your perfect fit. Explore the world of special education jobs beyond the classroom!

What Can You Do with a Special Education Degree Outside a Classroom?

Earning a special education degree opens up various career opportunities beyond teaching in the classroom. While many graduates with a bachelor’s degree in special education pursue teaching positions, other exciting paths are available to those with this degree. Here are some potential career options after obtaining your special-education bachelor’s degree.

State Agencies

States like Pennsylvania and others receive federal funding to offer services for individuals with disabilities. Agencies such as the Intellectual Services division of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (PA DHS) and the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) provide these services. State agencies often have positions in case management or support that require a degree in social work, special education, vocational rehabilitation, or related fields. Some positions in these agencies may specifically require a teaching degree.

Nonprofit Careers

Across the United States, many nonprofit organizations are dedicated to serving individuals with special needs. These organizations actively seek graduates with a bachelor’s degree in special education because they possess the necessary background and professional skills for these roles. A special education degree reflects a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Many nonprofit programs collaborate closely with special education programs and function as vendor agencies for the state, earning reimbursement for the services they provide. Notably, these nonprofits often require leadership positions filled by college graduates whose degrees are immediately relevant to educating and working with individuals with disabilities. Nonprofits offer a range of services, including:

  • Residential Programs: These programs offer housing, supervision, and life skills training for individuals with disabilities. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in special education can find various roles in residential programs, including program coordinator, program manager, director, and senior management positions, even up to the CEO level. Most individuals with this degree start in case management, ensuring that those in their caseload receive services by an Individual Plan (IP), similar to the Individual Education Plan (IEP) in the school system.
  • Vocational Programs: These programs focus on employment training, job readiness, and job placement for individuals with disabilities. Vocational programs often have positions requiring a bachelor’s degree, such as program manager, program coordinator, director, and senior management roles. Many vocational programs hire teachers to provide job readiness classes and conduct mock interviews to prepare individuals with disabilities for the workforce. Given the diverse range of disabilities these programs cater to, candidates with a bachelor’s degree in special education are highly sought after.
  • Advocacy Programs: Advocacy programs offer outreach, support, community education, direct advocacy, mediation, or legal protection for individuals with disabilities. Many of these programs are dedicated to specific causes or populations, making them an appealing option for professionals passionate about particular aspects of special education. Career opportunities within advocacy programs vary widely depending on the advocacy type.

Special Education Jobs

Special Education Jobs – 10 Exciting Career Paths 

1. Publishing Company Educator

As a professional looking for special education jobs beyond the four walls of a classroom, you can join publishing companies dedicated to producing special education materials. As a trainer, you’ll empower teachers and provide valuable insights into using these resources effectively. Expect to travel and conduct professional development sessions in the communities where educators rely on these materials.

2. Textbook and Curriculum Sales Specialist

As a special education specialist, you can utilize your special education background to excel in textbook and curriculum sales. As a representative, you’ll introduce these vital educational resources to K-12 schools and higher education institutions. Your role involves extensive travel within your designated territory, engaging with key decision-makers at school systems district headquarters, and attending industry-specific trade shows. Put your expertise to work in the world of educational materials!

3. Field trip Organizer

You can also use your expertise to dive into educational field trips by becoming a coordinator for museums, libraries, and similar institutions offering school programs. Your role will involve marketing these exciting adventures to schools, managing schedules, and ensuring the content is engaging and enriching.

4. Tutoring Specialist

If you’re ready to explore opportunities beyond the classroom, you can consider a rewarding career as a tutor. Reputable companies like Sylvan Learning Center and Lindamood-Bell actively seek credentialed special education teachers to support their clients. For the entrepreneurial-minded, starting your own tutoring services can be a fulfilling path.

5. Post Secondary Educator

Special education experts holding master’s degrees can explore roles as adjunct instructors at two-year colleges. Opportunities abound at community colleges offering education courses and career schools providing diploma, certificate, and associate degree programs.

6. Remedial Skills Coach

Join nonprofit organizations dedicated to offering basic skills programs for adults and school-age children who haven’t completed their education. These programs cover essential skills like literacy, basic math, and GED preparation. As an instructor, you’ll empower individuals to improve their skills and knowledge.

7. Fundraising Professionals

If you’re passionate about supporting special needs children beyond the classroom, consider a career in fundraising. Working as a fundraiser for organizations like the March of Dimes allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.

8. Lobbyist

As an education lobbyist, you can champion positive reform in education legislation at the state or national level. This role offers an impactful path for special education teachers seeking a change from the traditional classroom.

9. Pediatric Hospital Educator

Special education teachers are in demand at pediatric hospitals to support the educational needs of young patients. Whether working directly with hospitalized children or coordinating educational services with local schools, this role offers a unique and meaningful experience.

10. Corporate Training Specialist

Transition from K-12 classrooms to the corporate world as a training professional. Provide employee development training for large corporations or join companies specializing in training services. Your expertise in special education can make a significant impact in the corporate training environment.

Special Education Jobs

Special Education Jobs – Alternative Possibilities

11. Curriculum Specialist

Special education teachers can broaden their career horizons by becoming curriculum specialists. With advanced degrees or additional certifications, you can focus on shaping and improving educational programs, ensuring that students receive the best learning experiences.

12. Educational Technologist

Embrace the role of an educational technologist, leveraging your expertise to integrate technology effectively into the learning environment. Special education teachers can lead the way in creating accessible and inclusive digital learning experiences.

13. School Administrator

Explore leadership opportunities as a school administrator. Special education teachers driven to make a broader impact on education systems can pursue roles as principals or other administrative positions within schools and districts.

14. School Counselor

Transition into a school counselor role, providing guidance and support to students facing academic and personal challenges. Your background in special education equips you with valuable skills for helping students thrive.

15. Psychometrist

Special education teachers can further specialize as psychometrists, focusing on psychological assessments and evaluations to support students’ needs and educational plans. This role plays a crucial part in addressing diverse learning requirements.

Special Education Jobs  – How challenging is transitioning to one of these careers?

Transitioning to some of the suggested careers may not be difficult, especially for roles like special education advocate, tutor, or education writer, where classroom experience and existing qualifications can be sufficient. However, for certain career paths, further education, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, may be necessary. Returning to college can be a substantial time commitment, and the duration of master’s programs, typically two years full-time or more part-time, can be a factor to consider.

Special education teachers have an advantage in the admissions process, as they often already possess a bachelor’s degree in special education and relevant experience. Some programs may require specific undergraduate coursework, which may entail taking additional credits, especially in fields like school psychology. While transitioning to a new career can present challenges, it is often manageable with dedication and the right resources.

Conclusion on Special Education Jobs

Special education teachers possess a diverse skill set that opens doors to alternate career possibilities beyond the traditional classroom. Whether working as a curriculum specialist, educational technologist, or school administrator or exploring roles as school counselors and psychometrists, the opportunities are abundant for those willing to expand their horizons. By embracing these alternate paths, special education professionals can continue positively impacting education and students’ lives in diverse and meaningful ways.

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