special education teacher with master's salary

Salaries for Special Education Teacher with a Master's Degree or MBA

According to our 100% employer reported salary sources the median salary for a Special Education Teacher with a Master's Degree or MBA is $59,111 - $67,931 . Please try our salary wizard to explore how other factors like location, Years of experience and number of direct reports can impact your base pay and bonus.

Master’s in Special Education Degree Guide: Salary & Requirements 2024

Making the decision to become a special education teacher is a commitment to helping students realize their fullest potential. For the many students who receive special education services, fulfilling that commitment requires expertise in the instructional strategies tailored to their unique needs, and that is what a master’s degree in special education provides. 

Special education teachers with master’s degrees are in increasingly high demand and can earn significantly higher salaries than their colleagues with bachelor’s degrees. They are also positioned to easily transition into positions outside of the school setting. Potential non-education roles include diagnosticians and testers, counselors, case managers, and policymakers.

What is a Master’s Degree in Special Education?

Special education refers to teaching students using methodologies that are tailored to their challenges, exceptional needs or learning disabilities. Special education professionals provide early intervention to infants and toddlers identified as having disabilities or developmental delays and also work with eligible school age. The most effective instructional strategies require training and expertise that most general education teachers are unequipped to provide.

A master’s degree in special education generally takes two years to complete and arms teachers with the expertise, skills, and training they need to help special needs students learn and thrive. It also expands their opportunities for advancement, careers outside of the classroom, and higher compensation.

Should I Get a Master’s in Special Education if I Have a Bachelor’s in Special Education?

Many high-quality undergraduate teaching programs allow special education majors to focus on students with special needs. Though having a bachelor’s degree in special education opens the door to teaching this specific demographic, a master’s degree offers higher-level education focused on research, skill development, and leadership.

What Can I Do with A Master’s in Special Education Degree?

After graduating with a master’s degree in special education, you will not only be eligible for higher compensation as a teacher but will also find yourself qualified to move outside of the classroom into other  meaningful, rewarding career paths . Special education teachers with master’s degrees provide invaluable guidance to countless agencies and organizations that are dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities, including:

• School boards
• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Private corporations

Having a master’s degree in special education can open the door to becoming a diagnostician or case manager, a consultant or program coordinator. Graduates also work in early childhood education, elementary education, and secondary education.

How Much Do Special Education Master’s Graduates Make?

According to the  National Council on Teacher Quality , earning a master’s degree provides first-year teachers with $2,760 more in than teachers who have only earned a bachelor’s degree. This pay differential grows with experience, topping out at an average of $7,358 more per year by the time a teacher reaches the maximum number of years of experience within their district’s pay scale.

Some school districts offer incentives that recognize a master’s degree as equivalent to several years of experience, while others offer compensation for higher education credits earned, whether they result in a degree or not. The larger the school district, the greater the difference tends to be. For example, the most experienced teachers with master’s degrees earn $36,716 more than bachelors-degreed teachers with the same level of experience in the Montgomery County Public School District in Maryland. 

Master’s in Special Education Degree Salaries and Career Outlook

A master’s in special education program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to reach the children who require the most attention and help. That need goes far beyond the classroom, and so do the career opportunities. Here are a few of the positions that this degree makes possible, along with salary and job projections provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Median Salary: $61,500 
• Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)

Provides education tailored to meet the unique demands of students with special needs in a wide range of school environments, at all age levels.

• Median Salary: $98,490 

Oversees students in elementary, middle and high schools, providing direction of school operations and activities, oversight of budgets and curriculums, guidance and organization of staff, and engagement with community.

• Median Salary: $66,970 
• Career Outlook: +10% (2020-2030)

Instructional coordinators are tasked with designing, implementing and improving a school’s curriculum and educational programs.

 Source: BLS 

Earning a Master’s in Special Education

Though every program is different, a master’s degree in special education generally addresses the most effective methods of teaching to the abilities of children with learning disabilities or cognitive or emotional delays. The programs are offered in-person, online, and as hybrids between the two.

How Long Does A Special Education Graduate Program Take?

Students who pursue a master’s degree in special education should expect to spend 1-2 years on coursework completing roughly 30-to-36 credit hours made up of both classwork and, in some cases, a capstone project, practicum, or thesis. Specific program lengths vary upon whether students choose a full time or part time program, whether they opt for an online degree or in-person setting, and their educational background prior to the master’s program.

If an applicant to a program has not previously taught and/or does not have an undergraduate degree in education or a  teaching certification , they may also be required to complete prerequisite classes. Alternatively, those who have already attained a certain level of experience and have teaching certifications may be able to accelerate their degree completion, particularly if they select an online program.

Courses in Special Education Programs

Though each master’s in special education program will have its own curriculum based upon the priorities of its administration and its particular concentration, students considering a master’s in special education degree can anticipate taking classes similar to those listed below:

• Introduction to the Exceptional Child
• Specific Learning Disabilities: Identification, Instruction and Assessment (LD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorder Identification, Management, and Assessment (EBD)
• Understanding and Teaching Students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID)
• Assessment/Program Planning and Evaluation for Children with Special Needs    
• Special Education Law          
• Reading Disorders: Assessment, Planning, and Instruction
• Research in Special Education
• Educating Young Children with Special Needs        
• Working with Gifted and Talented Students 
• Designing & Utilizing Assistive Learning Technologies

Skills Learned in a Special Education Program

Master’s in special education programs prepare graduates to help students with special needs achieve and succeed. This is learned through both coursework and research, and results in graduates attaining invaluable skills, including:

• Recognizing and addressing challenging behaviors in applied settings and situations
• Lesson delivery across the autism spectrum
• Behavior modification in special needs students
• Help children develop social, emotional and behavioral wellness skills
• Deliver multi-sensory reading education to students with language-based learning disabilities
• Working collaboratively and creatively with others to deliver quality education to special education students

Master of Special Education Licensure and Certification

There are several different types of credentials required to teach. Every state requires that educators have at least bachelor’s degree and hold a teaching license from their state, and some states now require that teachers pursue and attain a master’s degree within five years of starting their teaching career.

Any graduate of a master’s in special education program who has not previously been licensed will be well prepared to meet the student teaching standards their state requires. In addition to licensure, certifications are awarded following completion of both an educational curriculum and a certain level of hands-on teaching practice. These certifications may be for:

• Specific grade levels such as elementary or high school
• Secondary education
• Special education
• Specific subject areas

There is also a national certification board, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, that awards certifications to teachers that meet their standards. Certification is voluntary but ensure that an individual teacher has met the high and rigorous standards set by the organization. The agency offers a special  “Exceptional Needs Standard”  ideal for those who have earned a master’s degree in special education.

Choosing the Best Special Education Degree

Once you’ve made the decision to pursue a master’s degree in special education, your next step is to find your educational home: the program where you will focus your efforts and attention for the next two years. This decision is based on multiple factors, some of which will be subjective and others objective.

In addition to weighing each program’s concentration, curriculum, faculty, and reputation, you also need to think about whether you prefer to attend classes in person or online, what the costs of the program are, whether financial aid is possible, and potential specializations. There is no single best program — there is only the program that’s best for you.

10 Best Schools for a Special Education Degree

Those looking to become special education teachers likely want to earn the best education possible. The better the degree, the better teachers can connect with and instruct their students. According to Universities.com’s  methodology , these are the 10 best schools for a special education degree:

• Texas Christian University
• Boston College
• University of Georgia
• University of Florida
• University of Washington – Seattle Campus
• Towson University
• Saint Joseph’s University
• University of Maryland – College Park
• University of Hawaii at Manoa
• New York University

To find more great special education schools, check out  our complete ranking here .

If you’re looking for other schools that offer Master’s in Special Education programs, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

Online Master of Special Education vs. On-Campus Degrees

Just a few years ago, the idea of earning a graduate degree online was unheard of. But today, accredited colleges and universities offer high-quality programs in both online and in-person formats, and some of the best programs in the country are exclusively available online.

Because online education has progressed to the point where academic quality meets that of in-person classes, potential students can now make their decision based on what is best for them as individuals. When choosing, you should consider the following factors:

• Online education offers more flexibility and the ability to continue your personal and career responsibilities.
• In-person education offers more hands-on opportunities and more face-to-face engagement with your cohort.
• Online education is frequently less expensive, especially because you can learn at home rather than having to pay to commute, park, eat on or near campus, and potentially have to live on or near campus.

Many master’s in special education programs require that their students who are not currently teaching fulfill a minimum number of hours of in-person teaching experience in a special needs setting. If you are not currently a teacher and you’re considering an online program, make sure you understand each program’s requirements for in-person study and experience.

Master of Science or Arts in Teaching (MST or MAT) vs Master of Education (M.Ed.)

When investigating the various special education master’s programs available, you will find that each curriculum has its own particular focus. In addition to differences in concentration/specialization, students must also pick  between a master of science or arts in teaching (MAT or MST) degree or a master of education (MEd) degree . Though the distinction may sound like a matter of semantics, each has its own focus and facilitates a different career outcome. 

While both programs take approximately two years to complete, they diverge significantly when it comes to the content of the material presented. Students who choose to pursue a master of science or arts in teaching often plan on becoming better, more effective teachers. They want to learn new methods to educate their students and better understand their students’ needs and how best they can learn. These degrees make graduates better teachers.

By contrast, graduate degree candidates who opt for a  master’s in education  learn more about leadership and how the educational system works to serve students. Their work focuses as much on issues of ethics and collaboration as on understanding the learning differences of students requiring special education. This knowledge certainly serves to make them better teachers should they chose to remain in the classroom, but also prepares them for careers outside of the classroom.

Accreditation

Whether you choose an online program or one that is taught in person in a classroom setting, it is essential that you choose a school that has received the standardized endorsement of educational quality known as accreditation. Accreditation is controlled by the U.S. Department of Education, and applicants to unaccredited schools are not eligible for federal student aid.

Financial aid eligibility is far from the only reason to seek a school that has received accreditation. Accredited graduate schools are recognized as having achieved a high level of quality as assed by external peer review.

Educational Preparation Programs, including those that teach graduate studies in special education, are not only subject to accreditation by  Council for Higher Education Association  approved regional accreditors as other graduate schools, but also to professional accreditation specific to their subject matter. Programs offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in education are subject to certification by the  Council for the Accreditation of the Educator Preparation  (CAEP).

Applying to Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs

Whether you’ve already been teaching students or you’ve decided to go straight from undergraduate school to a graduate program, applying for admission to a master’s in special education program requires meticulous attention to the selection of the program that most closely matches your goals and needs, the collection of required application material, and the submission of all needed documents to meet each school’s deadlines.

Admission Requirements for Special Education Master’s Programs

Each of the accredited programs that offer master’s degrees in special education has its own specific admission requirements, but there are commonalities among all of them that candidates for admission can expect. These include:

• Completed application form with associated fees
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Official transcripts of undergraduate work
• A record of teaching
• Satisfactory writing skills demonstrated through a personal essay
• Valid teaching certificate
• Current resume

How to Pay for A Graduate Special Education Degree

Attending graduate school and earning a master’s degree in special education is an investment in your future and the future of the students who will benefit from your enhanced knowledge. But the eventual outcome doesn’t mean that paying for it will be easy. As indicated earlier, you can anticipate that graduate school will cost thousands and thousands of dollars, so it’s important that you know the  resources available to help you pay . These include tuition reimbursement from your employer, scholarships and grants, and loans.

How Much Does a Master’s in Special Education Degree Cost?

The cost to attend a graduate program in special education varies greatly, with tuition costs ranging from under $10,000 to almost $70,000. Tuition is based on factors including:

• The program’s reputation
• The quality of the faculty
• Whether the curriculum is taught online or in-person
• Whether the student is pursuing the degree on a full-time basis or part-time basis
• Whether the degree is offered by a private college or public university
• Whether the student is from in-state or from out-of-state

When choosing a program to attend, students should weigh their priorities against the elements that add or subtract to costs. Keep in mind that by choosing an online program, students avoid the additional fees attributable to room and board.

Special Education Career Resources

If you are considering pursuing a degree in special education or would like more information on the support and resources available to those who have chosen a career in educating those with special needs, the following organizations offer a wealth of assistance.

• The National Association of Special Education Teachers
• The Council for Exceptional Children
• The Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps
• National Organization on Disability
• National Center for Learning Disabilities
• The Office of Special Education Programs
• Special Education News

Special Education Degree FAQs

• With a master’s degree in special education, you will be qualified to teach special education students as well as to be a leader in the creation, implementation and management of their education.
• Earning your master’s degree in special education will not only add to your earning potential, it will also provide you with advanced leadership skills and improve your opportunities for advancement.
• The average income for a teacher with a master’s in special education is over $61,500, and other positions for which you will be qualified pay even higher salaries.
• It takes approximately two years to complete a master’s in special education program.

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Masters in Special Education Degree Program Guide

Masters in special education salary.

Whether you’re earning your initial teaching license in special education, expanding your expertise by adding a special education endorsement to your teaching license, or further specializing in the field with a focus in an area like autism spectrum disorder or applied behavioral analysis, a master’s degree is your ticket to a more fulfilling career and better earning potential.

How Demand and Other Factors Are Influencing Salaries and Reducing Student Debt

Salary Ranges for Master’s-Prepared Special Education Teachers in Different Roles and Grade Levels

Examining the earning power of special education teachers with a master’s degree, state-by-state guide to what special education teachers are earning, how demand and other factors are influencing salaries and reducing student debt for special education teachers.

There is a widespread shortage of special education teachers in the U.S., leaving school districts everywhere scrambling to attract and retain talented educators with special ed credentials. According to the U.S. Department of Education, which maintains a database of “teacher shortage areas” in each state , 45 states and Washington D.C. experienced special education teacher shortages in the 2020-21 school year, either in specific grades/special education areas or statewide.

For example, California, Washington D.C, Florida, Michigan, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and New Jersey are just a handful of states that reported a statewide shortage of special education teachers in all grades from PreK to grade 12 during the 2020-21 school year.

These shortages come as no surprise as the number of students in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and receiving special education services through the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) continues to grow. Between the 2007-08 and 2018-19 school years, the number of students receiving special education services increased by a half million, and  now totals 7.1 million in 2019-20 – representing about 14 percent of the entire public school population in the U.S.

With a persistent and widespread shortage to contend with, the federal government and state education agencies are working to solve the problem by eliminating barriers to entering the field. Of course, the barriers in question are almost always financial ones as it gets more and more difficult to afford a college education. That’s why together, state and federal government are working to identify teacher shortage areas and provide affordable loans and loan repayment programs specifically aimed at student teachers pursuing certification with a special ed endorsement, as well as those currently working in the field looking to advance and specialize.

For example, the federal TEACH (Teacher Education Assistants for College and Higher Education) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year for students who agree to serve as a teacher in a high-need field that serves students from low-income families. Current high-need fields include:

• Special education
• Bilingual education/English language acquisition
• Foreign language
• Mathematics
• Reading specialist

The Teacher Forgiveness Program provides up to $17,500 in loan repayment for special education teachers with Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans. Special education teachers who achieve “highly-qualified” status are eligible for this program if they teach full-time for five, consecutive school years in a low-income school or educational service agency at either the elementary or secondary level.

Many states have also implemented state-level loan repayment and other incentive programs for teachers in high-demand areas. For example, Texas offers the Teach for Texas Loan Repayment Assistance Program , which provides loan repayment assistance of up to $2,500 for teachers working in identified teacher shortage areas, which include:

• Bilingual/English as a Second Language (Grades PK-12)
• Career and Technical Education (including Technology Applications and Computer Science) (Grades 7-12)
• Mathematics (Grades 7-12)
• Special Education (Grades PK-12)

School districts with adequate funding are also able to provide financial incentives for special education teachers in teacher shortage areas. For example, the Austin Independent School District offers two financial incentives for special education teachers: (1) a $2,000/year special education stipend for special education classroom teachers and eligible support staff; and (2) a $1,500 bonus for newly hired special education classroom teachers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), special education teachers earned an average, annual salary of $61,030, as of May 2019, which places even the average income in the filed a good notch above the average salary for teachers overall . But there’s nothing average about teachers who hold a master’s, which tends to mean that their salaries are considerably higher too, and more likely to land closer to the 90 th percentile average of $98,530.

To offer a complete picture that takes into account how location and experience could influence salary potential, even with all other things being equal as far has having a master’s degree goes, we  focus our examination of reported income for these dedicated educators on the higher ranges. That means looking at the 75 th percentile (top 25%) all the way up to the 90 th percentile (top 10%) since that range provides a more accurate picture of what master’s-educated special education teachers are earning: Preschool special education teachers: $79,910 – $115,260 (24% hold master’s degrees at this level) Kindergarten/elementary special education teachers: $77,420 – $97,210 (22% hold master’s degrees at this level) Middle school special education teachers: $79,030 – $98,610 (47% hold master’s degrees at this level) High school special education teachers: $79,150 – $98,890 (18% hold master’s degrees at this level)

Instructional Coordinators

Special education isn’t necessarily all teaching all the time. Someone has to create the tailored curriculum and methods of delivery that students with special needs require. It’s not uncommon for special education teachers with a master’s degree to serve as instructional coordinators who oversee the development and roll-out of new curricula and educational materials. In fact, a master’s degree is the standard for these positions, so median figures provide a good representation of what salaries are like in this role.

These educational professionals earned an average salary of $69,180, while the top 10% earned $103,790 or more according to May 2019 BLS stats, while in elementary and secondary school settings, the average was $72,250—that’s about $12,000 more than the average salary for special education teachers.

A job as an instructional coordinator may also take you outside of the public school setting. Instructional coordinators working for educational support services earned an average salary of $73,030, while those working in state government earned an average of $73,860 during this time.

The top-paying states for instructional coordinators, as of May 2019 were:

• Washington D.C.: $96,640
• Connecticut: $94,450
• Oregon: $83,110
• California: $80,970
• New Jersey: $76,680

The top-paying metro areas included:

• Jackson, MI: $117,990
• New Haven, CT: $111,750
• Warner Robins, GA: $103,980
• Riverside (includes San Bernardino and Ontario), CA: $103,660
• Hanford (includes Corcoran), CA: $96,770
• Bridgeport (includes Stamford, Norwalk), CT: $96,550
• El Centro, CA: $94,080
• Salem, OR: $92,980
• Danbury, CT: $91,110

A master’s degree is the pathway to more – and more varied – professional opportunities in special education, and is virtually always associated with a higher salary. In the vast majority of school districts throughout the country, a master’s degree earns special education teachers a bump in pay over their bachelor’s-prepared colleagues.

For example, special education teachers with the Broward County Public Schools (Ft. Lauderdale) earn an annual salary of $41,742 if they have three years of experience and a bachelor’s degree. However, special education teachers with a master’s degree and the same number of years of experience earn $3,650 more, or $45,392 annually.

Similarly, special education teachers with the Bakersfield, California City School District earn $56,950 with five years of experience and a bachelor’s degree. However, with a master’s degree and the same number of years of experience, teachers in that same position pull down $61,979—more than $5,000 more every year.

Because the greatest need for special education teachers is in the elementary schools, that’s where most of the hiring is taking place right now. The following BLS stats highlight what special education teachers in the kindergarten and elementary school setting are earning (50 th – 90 th percentile range as of May 2019):

• Alabama: $52,550 – $63,510
• Alaska: $72,860 – $100,670
• Arizona: $45,720 – $62,880
• Arkansas: $49,050 – $63,580
• California: $77,470 – $118,210
• Colorado: $52,610 – $79,180
• Connecticut: $77,990 – $102,690
• Delaware: $57,990 – $80,570
• District of Columbia: $76,660 – $118,620
• Florida: $64,040 – $86,430
• Georgia: $59,920 – $85,680
• Hawaii: $57,580 – $76,900
• Idaho: $46,880 – $75,490
• Illinois: $61,590 – $98,230
• Indiana: $49,550 – $79,490
• Iowa: $55,320 – $81,750
• Kansas: $52,760 – $73,190
• Kentucky: $52,780 – $65,290
• Louisiana: $49,350 – $61,700
• Maine: $51,210 – $73,660
• Maryland: $69,620 – $108,470
• Massachusetts: $72,550 – $110,890
• Michigan: $63,330 – $98,220
• Minnesota: $58,730 – $85,140
• Mississippi: $46,770 – $64,810
• Missouri: $54,260 – $96,630
• Montana: $49,270 – $73,540
• Nebraska: $58,490 – $81,140
• Nevada: $52,970 – $74,570
• New Hampshire: $59,350 – $80,210
• New Jersey: $67,060 – $99,170
• New Mexico: $51,390 – $77,900
• New York: $78,810 – $120,610
• North Carolina: $49,390 – $66,290
• North Dakota: $57,820 – $85,040
• Ohio: $56,670 – $82,100
• Oklahoma: $47,030 – $74,330
• Oregon: $76,330 – $118,160
• Pennsylvania: $64,210 – $94,340
• Rhode Island: $77,930 – $98,890
• South Carolina: $58,470 – $87,670
• South Dakota: $44,300 – $59,480
• Tennessee $52,630 – $72,120
• Texas: $57,390 – $72,710
• Utah: $43,620 – $81,870
• Vermont: $60,690 – $86,110
• Virginia: $64,040 – $102,140
• Washington: $68,150 – $93,220
• West Virginia: $42,820 – $58,480
• Wisconsin: $54,700 – $81,070
• Wyoming: $60,470 – $77,870

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which preschool special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which kindergarten and elementary special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which middle school special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which secondary school special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which instructional coordinators work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries.   

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

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15 Top-Paying States for Special Education Teachers

Plus tips for maximizing your salary.

In the education job market, special education teachers are always in high demand. In 2019, 44 states reported special education teacher shortages, and by 2022, that jumped to 48 (source: NPR ). Federal law ( IDEA ) states that students with disabilities must be taught by fully licensed teachers. This means that states may try to get creative with staffing special education classrooms. In the past, states have tried to attract and retain special education teachers with alternative licensure programs and other pathways to licensure. But recently, they’ve been turning to cold hard cash in the form of special education teacher signing bonuses and salary increases.

Show Me the Money: States Giving Cash for Special Ed

In 2020, Hawaii started paying special education teachers $10,000 more per year. (Source: NPR ).

Even places that don’t report as much challenge filling special education classrooms are putting their money where their mouth is. Metro Atlanta, Georgia, is offering $5,000 sign-on incentives to special education teachers (Source: The74million.org ).

It’s not clear if salary bumps work—Oklahoma provides a 5% salary bump for special education teachers, but that hasn’t necessarily decreased shortages. According to Education Week , some districts have increased special education teacher salary incentives to as high as 10% or offered signing bonuses of $2,000 to $3,000.

I don’t know about you, but my paycheck matters.

Aside from the cash bonuses, in 2023, special education teachers are paid an average of $54,290 across all states, according to an April 2023 Zippia study . This is an average of $26.10 per hour based on working 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year (but who’s calculating).

Top 15 States for Special Education Teacher Salary

1. maryland.

Median salary: $76,282

Hourly rate: $36.72

Salary range: $53,000–$108,000

Median salary: $77,146 ADVERTISEMENT

Hourly rate: $37.09

Salary range: $64,000–$91,000

3. Washington

Median salary: $63,434

Hourly rate: $30.50

Salary range: $45,000–$87,000

4. New York

Median salary: $64,250

Hourly rate: $30.89

Salary range: $45,000–$90,000

5. California

Median salary: $63,874

Hourly rate: $30.71

Salary range: $45,000–$89,000

6. Connecticut

Median salary: $60,164

Hourly rate: $28.93

Salary range: $42,000–$84,000

Median salary: $59,266

Hourly rate: $28.49

Salary range: $42,000–$81,000

8.  New Jersey

Median salary: $60,228

Hourly rate: $28.96

Salary range: $42,000–$85,900

9.  Massachusetts

Median salary: $58,591

Hourly rate: $28.17

Salary range: $42,000–$80,000

10.  Virginia

Median salary: $56,559

Hourly rate: $27.19

Salary range: $40,000–$79,000

11.  Rhode Island

Median salary: $55,984

Hourly rate: $25.92

Salary range: $40,000–$78,000

12.  Delaware

Median salary: $55,147

Hourly rate: $26.51

Salary range: $38,000–$78,000

13.  Wyoming

Median salary: $55,244

Hourly rate: $26.56

Salary range: $41,000–$74,000

14.  Pennsylvania

Median salary: $54,620

Hourly rate: $25.78

Salary range: $37,000–$75,000

15.  Illinois

Median salary: $51,414

Hourly rate: $24.72

Salary range: $37,000–$70,000

Don’t see your state on the list? Find it in the Zippia report .

How to maximize your special education teacher salary.

Once in special education, you can direct your expertise to maximize pay for the job.

Work in a specialized teaching location.

Teaching as a homebound teacher and in other specialized teaching locations may boost your pay. Homebound teachers provide services for students who are required to learn from home.

Earn credits for speech-language pathology.

If you’d like to earn more money and are up for some additional education, earn credentials to become a speech-language pathologist .

Work for a staffing company instead of a school district.

Education staffing companies like Kaleidoscope Education Solutions or the Birch Agency provide special education teachers through contracted services, which may pay higher than going directly through a district.

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Special Education Teacher Salary: How Much Do They Make?

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A top consideration of applying to any job is how much you're able to make in the position—and teaching is no exception. However, data from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that teachers are among the most educated workers but aren't compensated at the level they should.

While there are several reasons a special education teaching career is rewarding, it's important to be prepared with realistic salary expectations. Here's an overview of how much special education teachers make, as well as the factors impacting salary.

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How Much Do Special Education Teachers Make?

According to our analysis of job postings data, special education teachers in the United States earn a median annual salary of approximately $52,500. This represents a positive trend, with a 19.4 percent growth rate over the past three years.

Like most professions, states offer different salary ranges for special education teachers. For example, special education teachers in the New England area earn an annual median salary of $61,600—with the top 24 percent earning $78,000 per year or higher. In Massachusetts specifically, they earn an average salary of $62,300 per year.

There are a variety of factors that influence how much you can make as a special education teacher, which prospective teachers can take advantage of.

5 Factors That Impact a Special Education Teacher’s Salary

1. education level.

Master's-level education is required for special education teachers in several states—including Massachusetts. Even in states where it isn't required, advancing your education can increase your salary potential.

For example, special education teacher job postings in the United States that require a master's degree offer higher median wages—averaging $60,300 per year.

It’s important to note that several states are now also requiring general teachers to obtain a master's degree in education. As a result, if you’re getting a master’s degree in teaching special education, you’ll be able to teach in regular classrooms and become more marketable in special education classrooms.

“Going into additional education for yourself and getting different degrees can make you more marketable and increase your earning potential,” explains Priscilla Boerger, program director of Regis College’s Master’s in Teaching Special Education. “But so can going into the field of the degree.”

2. Previous Work Experience

In addition to educational background, you can leverage your previous work experience to obtain a higher salary.

However, if you don't have experience in teaching special education, it may also be possible to leverage other relevant experience, including:

• Volunteer experiences
• Internships
• Assistant teaching positions
• Substitute teaching positions
• Experiences working with children with learning differences

While these positions alone won't satisfy the requirements for becoming a special education teacher , you may be able to leverage them to negotiate a higher starting wage for yourself.

3. Location

Different states—as well as regions within states—have a wide range of median salaries for special education teachers. While searching for high-paid positions based on the employer alone is a good idea, it's also important to consider long-term goals.

For example, if you're hoping to stay in the same area but are open to working at more than one school, you'll want to examine your location’s wage data to ensure you'll be able to maintain the same salary throughout your career.

Before moving to a different state, however, it's important to consider the following:

• Cost of living: States/regions have different expenses you'll want to consider, such as taxes, groceries, utilities, and health care. Consider using a cost of living calculator to determine your approximate expenses before applying to teaching jobs in another state.
• Housing market: If you're hoping to purchase a home in the state you move to, make sure the housing market is affordable before accepting any job offers. It's also a good idea to ask prospective employers whether they offer relocation assistance.
• Licensure requirements: Every state has its own unique set of licensing requirements for special education teachers. It's important to ensure you contact the appropriate state department of education to review licensure qualifications.
• Other considerations: Remember to review other considerations in the area, such as local attractions or seasonal climate to ensure you’re going to be comfortable living in this new area.

While switching locations for a higher salary is a valid option, it's important to also ensure that your resume presents a consistent record of experience. Job hopping can be a red flag employers look for when considering applicants. However, this doesn't mean you're stuck in the first role you obtain.

“Do the time so that your resume doesn't look so choppy,” Boerger advises. “But move around if you need to.”

4. Relevant Skills

Improving your skill set is another way you can increase your earning potential. Having demonstrable relevant skills on your resume can impress prospective employers and also help you stand out from other applicants.

According to our analysis of job postings data, the top skills required for special education teaching positions include:

• Special education
• Individualized education programs (IEP)
• Communication
• Mathematics
• Progress reporting
• Working with individuals with disabilities
• English language

Many of these skills—such as communication—aren't specific to teaching special education positions, but are critical to the role. “Sometimes teachers can feel intimidated or frustrated by parents,” explains Boerger. “So I think communication skills are key.”

Consider what relevant skills you can currently demonstrate and whether they'd be beneficial to a teaching special education position. Including some of these skills on your resume can make a huge difference when bargaining for a higher salary.

5. Other Qualifications

Your qualifications can also impact your potential salary. According to our analysis of job postings data, top qualifications for special education teachers include:

• Teaching certificate
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)™
• CPR certification
• First aid certification
• Registered behavior technician

While these additional qualifications might not be required for your role, they can significantly improve your marketability.

How To Increase Your Earning Potential

If you're interested in teaching in this field, there are several steps you can take to increase your earning potential.

• Volunteer: Seek out local volunteer or teacher's assistant opportunities.
• Improve your skill set: Familiarize yourself with the skills required for these teaching positions—not only the job-specific ones but soft skills as well.
• Advance your education: Obtaining a master's degree not only increases the number of states you're eligible for licensure in but also increases your earning potential.

It's also important to keep in mind that if your salary prospects aren't ideal, there are other benefits you can look for in teaching positions, such as stipends.

“Some schools have given teachers stipends for supplies,” says Boerger. “Teachers typically pay about $700 a year out of pocket for supplies. But there are schools and districts that do give funds for that.”

It's also important to consider what other resources the school has available for teachers, such as mental health support or vacation policies. It may be worth sacrificing a higher salary if the school has resources to help you avoid burnout.

Take the Next Steps in Your Teaching Career

Teaching won’t make you a millionaire, but it can earn you a comfortable living wage that provides incredibly rewarding experiences in many other areas. The ability to make a difference in the lives of children with learning differences is highly fulfilling. Following the steps listed in this article can go a long way in ensuring you can make a positive impact without worrying about your finances.

If you're ready to take the next step in your teaching career, consider applying to Regis College's Master's in Teaching Special Education . Our program fulfills the licensing requirements for teaching in Massachusetts, and prepares you with the education and skills you need to succeed.

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How to Become a Special Education Teacher

Jump to section, what are the requirements for special education teachers, who will my students be, what does a special education teacher do, special education teacher jobs & job description, where can certified special education teachers teach, special education teacher organizations & associations, what is the salary of a special education teacher.

Great teachers empathize with children, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be built on. Ann Lieberman

A career as a special education teacher will involve instructing students with emotional, physical and learning disabilities. Special education teachers may work with individuals of all ages from infants to adults. Their job will consist of helping their students develop problem solving, motor and social skills needed to complete their education and live independent lives. They may work with their students on personal and life skills in addition to academic curriculum and advancement.

Qualities of a Special Education Teacher

Special education teacher requirements include fantastic communication skills since they will be working with students, parents, and educators. They must be able to work in a one-on-one setting with students as well as in a group setting. Being able to meet the individual needs of their students is very important. Good computer skills and organization skills are important due to needing to keep detailed records of each student's progress. Being familiar with assistive technology devices in a classroom is a plus. An encouraging personality as well as the ability to be creative and flexible are all great qualities for a special education teacher.

Job Growth for Special Education Teachers

The employment growth for special education teachers is 3% at the national level for the 10-year period ending in 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will vary according to which state you live in, however, and be driven by increased demand for special education services, and the need to replace teachers leaving their occupations.

All certified special education teachers in the United States must have at least a bachelor's degree and hold a state-issued license or certificate specific to teaching special education students. However, each state has their own specific licensing requirements.

Education Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Many universities and colleges offer special education degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

Special education teacher degree classes will include gaining knowledge of disabilities like autism, downs syndrome, visual impairment and more. Students will also learn practical procedures for teaching science, math and reading skills to students who have special needs.

Specialized classes could examine topics like technology for differentiated instruction, low incidence disabilities and more. Special education teacher training will also include curriculum development courses and supervised classroom student teaching. Most special education teachers earn a degree in Special Education or Education .

Special Education Teacher Preparation Program

If your school does not offer a degree in special education, you can enroll in a special education teacher preparation program after receiving your degree. This type of program will lead you toward becoming a certified special education teacher. Licensure/certification can be attained through the completion of a teacher education program that is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Due to the high level of specialization among special education teachers, many states may require additional training before you can get a professional license.

Tests to Pass if you Want to Become a Special Education Teacher

Prospective special education teachers are also required to take and pass all special education content area assessments in order to obtain certification at the special education level. These standardized tests vary from state to state. Licensing and competency exams should be taken in the state where you wish to teach.

Find Information About Becoming a Teacher In Your State

Each state has different requirements for becoming a certified teacher. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia

Special Education Teacher by Degree Level

The tables and charts below break down the education level obtained as averaged across the U.S.

Data taken from BLS Educational attainment for workers 25 years and older by detailed occupation, 2010-11 (http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_111.htm)

Special education teachers will have students with learning, physical and emotional disabilities. Many special education students may have delayed motor and social skills and will need to be worked with in these areas on a daily basis. Special education students can range from pre-k to 12th grade, depending on your area of specialty.

Special education teachers will work with students who have a wide range of disabilities ranging from learning, physical, mental and emotional. They are responsible for adapting general education lessons to meet the needs of their students. Subjects taught include reading, writing and math as well as basic skills like literacy and communication techniques. Their students may have disabilities ranging from mild to moderate to severe.

Job Duty Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers must be able to meet their students' needs to ensure that each individual student receives proper attention and the assistance needed to succeed in school and life. This may include providing one-on-one assistance in the setting of a general classroom, adapting materials, providing appropriate testing opportunities and more.

Special education teachers provide the families of their students the tools they need to grow as independent individuals in their communities. These teachers work with parents, other teachers and paraprofessionals to create individual education plans (IEP) for their students in order to help meet the individual needs of each child.

A complex and demanding career path, the role of the special education teacher is difficult to encapsulate briefly, given that every teacher's caseload of students looks very different from the next. While there are similarities between elementary to secondary, there are differences as well.

Becoming an Elementary Special Education Teacher

Often considered a generalist (though perhaps with special interest or training in one or two areas of need) elementary special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can. Elementary special education teachers:

• Work with students who have Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), autism, Asperger's syndrome, those who are blind, low-vision, deaf or hard-of-hearing, who have Central Auditory Processing Delays (CAP-D), physical disabilities, cognitive impairments or developmental delays.
• Spearhead the development of an Individual Education Plan each year as a working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for students
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks
• Meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Mentor and advise professional support staff such as speech pathology, audiology, interpreting, psychological assessment, occupational therapy, social work and medical services
• Ensure that accommodations or modifications during instructional time are also in place during assessments
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from elementary to high school with post-secondary planning being a relevant goal and timeline
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every success is measurable
• Communicate proactively and professionally about student assessment and behavior with teaching and non-teaching staff, individual students, their families and associated professionals, bearing in mind the impact of confidentiality regarding vulnerable persons
• Support the school's culture and practices for inclusion through extracurricular and co-curricular activities and staff leadership

Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher

Often considered a specialist (though perhaps a generalist due to diversity of need or size of school population) high school special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can, and then some. High school special education teachers:

• Assess student learning needs in the classroom on a holistic basis, taking into account the students current and past achievements, current cultural and familial framework, and future goals
• Spearhead the continuation of an accurate and effective Individual Education Plan each year as an editable working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for student growth
• Act as a daily point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including the student themselves as their individual need dictates
• Act as a friendly face and advocate, helping students learn the valuable skill of self-advocacy as they approach the end of high school
• Function as a resource for school to work transitioning
• Advocate for and promote students for extensive co-operative education placements both in and outside of the school
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks; keep rigorous metrics
• Proactively meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Suggest beneficial reductions in support for the student to foster self-reliance, reduction in vulnerability, and independence
• Understand theories of adolescent development and how special needs may alter these developmental arcs
• Advocate on behalf of the student's needs to classroom teachers and administration, either individually and on an ad-hoc basis or in a more formal setting
• In-service teaching staff, support staff and administration on student behavior and general best practices for interaction and engagement
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from high school to post-secondary education or job training. Ensure timelines are accurate; work backward from end-goal.
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every small success is measurable

Certified special education teachers have many employment avenues open to them, including consultation, policy development, advocacy and administration.

Special education teachers can work in elementary schools, charter schools and private schools.

Public Schools

Public schools are required to admit any student who lives within the district, regardless of ability, ethnicity or socioeconomic backgrounds. In public schools, special education teachers tend to work with a diverse group of children with varying needs. Prospective public special education teachers are often required to apply directly to the district prior to seeking employment at a specific school.

Private Schools

Since private schools charge tuition for a child to attend, special education services are generally not free. Many smaller private schools do not even offer special education services. With that said, families of students with special needs may be required to hire a private one-on-one aide to assist the child. These schools are generally governed by a private school board or organization and may have religious affiliations.

If a prospective special education teacher is interested in teaching at a private school, they should check with the school in which they wish to teach to find out specific criteria. Many private schools do not have the same requirements for special education teachers as their public school counterparts. In some cases, relevant experience or a bachelor's degree will suffice.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are independent schools that do not require tuition. They have more flexibility than public schools, but are expected to perform better and have a greater accountability. Charter schools are typically smaller and more selective. They may have additional requirements for their education teachers. However, some charter schools may not have dedicated special education services. To inquire, contact the charter school of your interest.

NASET - National Association of Special Education Teachers: NASET is a national membership organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to those preparing for or teaching in the field of special education.

CEC - Council for Exception Children: The Council for Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of children and youth with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.

IASE - International Association of Special Education: The IASE works to improve the quality of life and service delivery for all individuals with special needs.

NAPSEC - National Association of Private Special Education Centers: NAPSEC is a nonprofit association that supports access to appropriate special education programs with more than 200 programs nationally and over 400 at the state level through the Council of Affiliated State Associations.

The median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,030 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with entry-level teachers earning less than $40,730, and the highest 10% of experienced teachers earning more than $98,530 per year.

In addition to the salary, educators get great health and retirement benefits. Given the degree of specialty training that a special education teacher receives, he or she has an average salary that is somewhat higher than their mainstream counterparts, although private school teachers do earn less than public school teachers. Like other teaching roles, salaries are based mostly on experience and education.

Visit our Teacher Salary-What to Expect? page to find out more.

(Salary data for special education teachers reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2019. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed March 2021.)

Special Education Teachers (Preschool)

Salary (2022) and job outlook (2012 to 2020) by state.

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) is $69,620, with an estimated 22,970 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 16.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) (SOC Code: 25-2051)

Salary (2022) By Largest Metropolitan Areas

Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School)

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) is $68,580, with an estimated 195,010 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 6.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) (SOC Code: 25-2052)

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Special Education Teacher Salary By State: Highest-Paid Special Education Teachers by State [2024]

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Research Summary. After extensive research by the Zippia data science team , we identified these details of special education teacher salary by state for the United States:

Maryland has the highest special education teacher salary of $76,282

Mississippi has the lowest special education teacher salary of $38,081

The national average salary for special education teachers is $54,290

The national hourly pay for special education teachers is $26.1

You can read more on the specific methodology .

Without fail, in surveys across basically every demographic, the number one most important aspect of a job for most people is the salary — how much do special education teachers get paid where I live?

And while there are many things to go into how much you, specifically, can expect to make, there’s really good data for average salaries for special education teacher by state across America broken down by seniority level. So while your city may be slightly different than the state average, these averages give you a rough sense of what to expect for your salary.

The state with the best salary for special education teachers after this adjustment? That would be Maryland.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the top ten states for special education teacher salaries:

Maryland ( Jobs )

Alaska ( Jobs )

Washington ( Jobs )

New York ( Jobs )

California ( Jobs )

Connecticut ( Jobs )

Oregon ( Jobs )

New Jersey ( Jobs )

Massachusetts ( Jobs )

Virginia ( Jobs )

Let’s take a look at how we got here and a full ranking of all the states.

Highest-Paid Special Education Teachers By State

Methodology: Special Education Teacher Salary By State

To better understand special education teacher pay by state, Zippia has aggregated data across a multitude of channels including the BLS, FLC, and OPM. We then supplement that data with actual listed salaries from job posts. Finally, the data science team calculates a weighted average of these inputs to create an average pay for special education teachers by state.

We took the average annual salary data for special education teachers from these estimates and ranked every state on this criteria with the state with the highest salary ranking as highest average salary for special education teachers.

Special Education Teacher Salary By State FAQs

What is the highest-paid state for special education teachers?

The highest-paid state for special education teachers is Maryland with an average salary of $76,282 per year.

What city pays special education teachers the most?

Baltimore, MD pays special education teachers the most with an average salary of $76,511 per year.

What is the worst state for special education teachers?

The worst state for special education teachers is Mississippi with an average salary of $38,081 per year.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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Salary of a Special Education Teacher With a Master's Degree

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 463,200 special education teachers were employed in the United States as of May 2020 - mostly in elementary and secondary schools. Special education teachers instruct students with developmental and learning disabilities. They assess students' skills, determine their needs, and then develop educational and physical activities to enhance their development. A bachelor's degree is usually required for this job. Salaries for special education teachers with master's degrees can vary, depending on the state or district in which they work.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the BLS, the median 2020 salary for special education teachers was ​$61,500​ per year in 2020. Median salary means that half in the profession earned more, while half earned less. Job growth through 2030 is projected to be 8 percent, a rate considered average when compared to all other occupations.

Top Pay in State of New York

More for you, what are some skills a physical education teacher needs, the average salary of instructional designers, how much do teachers with a master's degree make, what is the role of teachers in education, how much money does a science teacher make a year.

As with most jobs, geographic location is an important factor in determining wages. Areas with a high cost of living generally pay teachers accordingly. The BLS listed highest salaries, on average, in New York (​$92,650​), Oregon (​$84,800​), Maryland (​$75,440​), New Jersey (​$74,520​) and District of Columbia (​$72,690​.) In metropolitan areas, highest earnings were reported in Los Angeles, CA (​$67,710​), New York City (​$91,840​), Alexandria, VA (​$98,040​), San Diego (​$82,440​) and Chicago (​$57,770​.)

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How Teacher Salaries are Calculated

Special education teachers are typically paid on the same salary scale as their colleagues who teach in the regular classroom. Becoming a special education teacher requires some of the same coursework that all teachers must complete, including child development, pedagogy, and history and philosophy of education. Teaching special education requires specialized coursework, in the same way prospective music, mathematics or physical education teachers take classes in their respective disciplines.

As explained by the National Council on Teacher Quality, most teachers are paid on a "step and lane" salary schedule. The "steps" represent a teacher's years of experience, and are usually read vertically on a salary schedule, from top to bottom. The "lanes," read horizontally, represent increases in earnings awarded for additional education credits and degrees.

Employment website Salary reported that a special education teacher salary with master's degree ranged from ​$35,944​ to ​$89,534​ as of September 2021, depending on location and experience. Teachers working for the public schools generally have a benefits package, including healthcare insurance and a retirement plan.

• US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers
• National Council on Teacher Quality: The Ins and Outs of Teacher Salaries
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers: Summary
• Teach.org: Information Site

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Masters in Special Education

Best master of special education degrees, what’s the average salary with a masters in special education, salary with a master’s degree.

According to PayScale.com, you can expect to earn between $40,000 and $68,000 per year if you have a master’s degree in special education. Middle school teachers typically earn most, followed by high school teachers and elementary/kindergarten/preschool teachers. In general, you can expect to earn around 5% more with your master’s degree than you can with a bachelor’s degree in the same field.

Salary Information by Location

Location plays a big role in the salary you’re offered, no matter what your industry, and this is definitely true for special education teachers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . Elementary/kindergarten/preschool school special education teachers earn the highest salaries in Alaska, while middle school special education teachers earn the highest salaries in Rhode Island and high school special education teachers earn the highest salaries in Connecticut. Other top earning locations for special education teachers include New York and California. In all of these states, the average salary is over $60,000 – and that takes all levels of education into account, so with your advanced degree, you can expect to earn higher than average in many cases.

Salary Information by Employer

Most special education teachers work for schools, though there are other employment options as well. Private schools almost always pay higher salaries than public schools, and you can also often make more money if you work at a school specifically for special needs students. Medical facilities that hire special education teachers are also higher-paying, as are government departments. You can also consider becoming a private tutor to a special needs student, which is an especially good option if you also have a nursing or medical degree, since some families like to hire live-in care givers who can provide both medical care and education to a special needs student.

Top Online Masters in Special Education Degrees

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Maximize Your Teaching Career: The Best Master's Degree for Teachers

As an educator, the commitment to teach and inspire demands a foundation built on knowledge and passion. Deciding that it is time to get a master’s degree or that you want to reinvigorate your teaching career takes thoughtful consideration and planning. For educators driven by a desire to enhance their teaching methods, deepen their subject expertise, or ascend to leadership positions, pursuing a master's degree can be a pivotal step. But with so many options in the master’s degree market, how do you know which master’s degree to pursue as a teacher? How do you evaluate the benefits and drawbacks? We’ll provide an overview of your options and explore how one stands out as the best master’s degree for teachers. 

Master’s Degrees for Teachers 

You first need to know your options to know where you're headed. Here’s a brief overview of the most typical master’s degrees teachers pursue. 

• Master of Education (M.Ed.): Ideal for educators focusing on educational leadership, special education, educational technology, and curriculum development, among other areas.
• Master of Science (M.S.) in Teaching: A research-focused degree aimed at those pursuing doctoral degrees or careers in education beyond the classroom, including curriculum development and educational policy.
• Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.): Designed primarily for those holding a bachelor's degree in a field other than education and seeking both a master's degree and initial teaching licensure. The M.A.T. focuses on practical teaching skills and fieldwork, making it an ideal pathway for new teachers or career changers aiming to enter the teaching profession. If you’re already a teacher, you would not consider this option. Choosing to pursue an MAT vs. M.Ed. is easier than you think. Check out our blog.  
• Specializations in Curriculum and Instruction: These programs prepare educators to design, analyze, and implement curricula and educational programs. Graduates often take roles in schools, corporations, and government, working on educational policy, training, and development.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Master's Degree in Teaching

Personal Interest: Your passion is the best guide to choosing an area of interest . Whether it’s a love for literacy, a fascination with STEM, or a commitment to special education, your M.Ed. can focus on what inspires you most.

Career Goals: It is crucial to align your program choice with your career aspirations. Envision where you see yourself in the future and select a pathway that will help you achieve these goals.

Financial Considerations: Your goal is to balance the immediate costs of graduate school with the long-term benefits of higher earning potential and career opportunities. Advanced degrees are an investment but one that has the potential to pay off significantly. 

Benefits of an MEd

A Master of Education (M.Ed.) stands out as a highly valuable degree for educators looking to deepen their skill set and make a greater impact in their field. It blends the latest in teaching theory with the practical skills educators need to succeed in a variety of settings, helping them lead the way in developing new and innovative teaching methods.

Deepen Your Teaching Skills

An M.Ed. isn’t just about learning more teaching strategies; it’s about exploring the depths of how we teach and how students learn. This degree gives educators a chance to dig into the details of advanced teaching methods and learning theories, making the learning process more engaging for everyone. It turns teachers into lifelong learners themselves, constantly growing and adapting to meet their students' needs.

Step Into Leadership

For those looking to make a difference beyond their own classroom, an M.Ed. can open the door to new opportunities. It lays the groundwork for roles in school administration, instructional coordination, or even educational policy, providing the leadership tools needed to thrive in these positions. It’s a pathway not just to becoming a principal or an administrator but to becoming an educational leader who can inspire change.

Build Your Network

Starting an M.Ed. journey introduces educators to a community of peers who are just as passionate about teaching. This network is more than just a group of colleagues; it’s a source of inspiration, support, and collaboration throughout your career. These connections can lead to innovative classroom ideas, career opportunities, and lasting friendships. It’s a vibrant professional community that grows with you, offering resources and encouragement every step of the way.

Pursuing SMU’s M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning

Southern Methodist University's Master of Education in Teaching and Learning stands out for its dedicated faculty, innovative curriculum, and commitment to practical, research-based teaching methods. The program caters to those seeking to make a real difference in the classroom and beyond.

Our application process is straightforward. We require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The admissions team reviews all materials and looks for passionate educators committed to their personal and professional growth.

From the moment you begin your journey at SMU, you receive support every step of the way. With access to resources such as career counseling and academic workshops, SMU ensures you have all you need to succeed.

Choose the Best Teaching Master’s Degree for You

Embarking on an M.Ed. is more than an academic endeavor; it’s a commitment to yourself and the future of education. Among the long list of personal benefits—enhanced teaching skills, increased earnings, and leadership opportunities—an M.Ed. reaffirms your dedication to making a meaningful impact on students' lives.

For current teachers with a bachelor's degree considering a master’s in teaching, SMU’s M.Ed in Teaching and Learning represents a strategic move towards maximizing your teaching career. We invite you to reach out, learn more , and potentially start a transformative journey that elevates your ability to inspire young minds. Take this step towards personal and professional growth and see where your passion for teaching will eventually take you.

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Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a growing discipline with a presence in both psychology and education that improves the lives of children and adults with disabilities. We offer on-campus and online option ABA programs. Both options allow students to earn a master’s degree in special education and complete the ABA coursework necessary to apply to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

The demand for highly qualified Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) has been steadily increasing nationwide! A variety of settings and industries are competitively seeking BCBAs to fill a wide variety of positions in education, home services, clinical programs, health services and more. Our programs meet all the Behavior Analyst Certification Board coursework and supervision requirements and will qualify applicants to sit for the board exam.

Our goal is to prepare students to be competent, inclusive, ethical, and professional behavior analysts who work with persons with developmental disabilities and their families. Students coming out of our program will:

• Understand and fluently apply the principles of behavior analysis
• Have a working knowledge of current evidence-based practices for individuals with developmental disabilities 
• Select or create contextually appropriate, evidence-based interventions for individuals with whom they work and critically analyze and evaluate the effects of those interventions 
• Work collaboratively and openly with schools, families and other community stakeholders, always with an understanding of how culture and equity impact service delivery
• Ensure that the primary outcome of their work is to improve the quality of life for the individual and his or her family

Beneficence . Behavior analysts have a responsibility to engage in practices that maximize their clients' well-being and avoid those that cause harm. We understand that behavior analytic services are most likely to benefit our clients when they are provided in the context of a trusting and compassionate relationship. Where conflicts of interest arise between consumers of behavior analysis, we prioritize outcomes for the most vulnerable clients.

Inclusion. Behavior analysts have a responsibility to provide individuals of all backgrounds and abilities access to and authentic participation in meaningful activities that promote relationships, a sense of community, and an improved quality of life.

Professional excellence. Behavior analysts have a responsibility to be honest and transparent. We engage in ongoing professional development and analyze our own practices. Professional excellence requires respectful and effective collaboration with individuals from other disciplines while maintaining a commitment to data-based decision-making. Analyzing evidence from different methodologies is encouraged as a way of collaborating with others and improving practice.

Self-determination. Behavior analysts respect clients’ rights and promote client dignity, privacy, and autonomy. We assist clients to set and achieve their own goals, develop their own agency, and make decisions about their own lives.

Social Justice. Behavior analysts have a responsibility to attend to injustice where they see it, avoid perpetuating inequitable systems, and advocate for equitable systems change. We are uniquely qualified to identify controlling and contextual variables that contribute to inequitable educational and service-delivery systems and develop solutions to supplant them.

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Applied behavior analysis (on-campus), applied behavior analysis (online).

Special Education Teacher Salary in Texas

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Texas? The average Special Education Teacher salary in Texas is $62,192 as of August 27, 2024, but the range typically falls between $49,028 and $81,455 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

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What skills does a Special Education Teacher need?

Each competency has five to ten behavioral assertions that can be observed, each with a corresponding performance level (from one to five) that is required for a particular job.

Analysis: Analysis is the process of considering something carefully or using statistical methods in order to understand it or explain it.

CPR: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) combines rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) and chest compressions to temporarily pump enough blood to the brain until specialized treatment is available.

Background Check: A background check or background investigation is a review of a potential employee's criminal, commercial and financial records. The goal of background checks is to ensure the safety and security of the employees in the organisation

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Job Description for Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher instructs special education students in a classroom setting. Prepares lesson plans and instructional materials designed to meet the needs of individual students. Being a Special Education Teacher develops individualized education plans, and evaluates and monitors students' performance. Resolves classroom issues and conflicts. Additionally, Special Education Teacher may provide behavioral consultation or implement therapeutic programs for students. May mentor teaching aides. Requires a bachelor's degree. May require state-specific special education teaching license. Typically requires Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Typically reports to a principal. The Special Education Teacher occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Special Education Teacher typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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• Physical Therapist School 2024-2025 SY Epic Special Education Staffing - San Elizario, TX ABOUT US. Together, we are the Epic Special Education Staffing family and family is how we view each member of this incredible community. From our family t... - 1 Day Ago
• Speech Language Pathologist School 2024-2025 SY Epic Special Education Staffing - Killeen, TX Epic Special Education Staffing is now offering a $2,000 sign-on bonus for a limited time for Speech Language Pathologists. ABOUT US. Together, we are the ... - 1 Day Ago
• Speech Language Pathologist School 2024-2025 SY Epic Special Education Staffing - Katy, TX Epic Special Education Staffing is now offering a $2,000 sign-on bonus for a limited time for School Speech Language Pathologist. ABOUT US. Together, we ar... - 2 Days Ago
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Program Supervisor - Home Visiting Services, Early Ed (3844) at Merced County Office of Education

Application Deadline

9/9/2024 4:30 PM Pacific

Date Posted

Number of openings, add'l salary info, length of work year, employment type, for assistance with your ed-join application, prevent your application from being disqualified, about the employer.

The Merced County Office of Education assists Merced County’s 20 school districts through support and oversight of curriculum and instruction, alternative education, business services, early education, technology, migrant education, special education, and teacher credentialing. MCOE is led by the elected Merced County Superintendent of Schools and governed by the Merced County Board of Education. While serving as a focal point to facilitate local school/government/community partnerships, MCOE is responsible for the fiscal oversight of each school district in Merced County, hears appeals for student expulsion hearings and interdistrict transfers and operates Green Meadows Outdoor School.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Behavior Support Specialist, plans, coordinates, and supervises early education staff who focus on supporting parents and caregivers to support the optimal development of young children. Responsible for supporting the overall functioning of the early education programs to meet program goals and reporting requirements. Oversees activities and distributes workload among staff to optimize program operations. Supervises and evaluates assigned staff. Serves as an advocate for children and families.

Requirements / Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education and Experience: Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development, Education, Psychology, or a closely related field. Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience supporting children and families and program implementation. Alternatively, an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Development, Education, Psychology, or a closely related field and seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience supporting children and families; and program implementation. View attached job description for complete details. ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS: The following information must be received before the deadline date in order for your application to be considered for this position: 1) a completed Ed-Join on-line application form 2) brief resume 3) three (3) recent letters of recommendation (SIGNED and DATED within the last 18 months) 4) copy of transcripts or degree (if applicable) 5) any related certifications If unable to attach required documents with your application, you may email them to [email protected] . Make sure to indicate the position you are applying for under a subject line. Upon hire, must provide: TB clearance Official Transcripts DMV Driver Record Proof of auto insurance

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Teacher pay

If you’re a primary or secondary teacher in England, your salary will depend on the type of school you work in, where the school is, and the pay range you’re on.

The pay ranges below apply to maintained schools (schools funded by local authorities).

Non-maintained schools (for example, academies, independent schools and private schools) can set their own pay, but often follow these pay ranges.

Figures apply from 1 September 2024.

Primary and secondary teacher salary

If you have qualified teacher status (QTS) , you’ll get a minimum starting salary of £31,650 (or more in London) as a primary or secondary school teacher in England.

Your salary will be reviewed every year, with most teachers moving up the pay range annually. This will depend on your school’s performance management arrangements.

A typical teacher could earn at least £43,607 (or more in London) after 5 years.

Qualified teacher salary

Additional payments

You may also receive additional payments on top of your regular salary for taking on extra responsibilities.

This could be a one-off payment for a specific project, for example, creating a timetable.

Or it might be an extra responsibility attached to your job role, for example, being the head of department.

Depending on your responsibilities, you could earn up to an extra £16,553. Your school will determine how much you receive.

Career progression

Leading practitioner salary.

Some schools also have a leading practitioner pay range for teachers with exemplary teaching skills who lead the improvement of teaching in their school.

What this will involve will depend on your school, but could include:

• coaching and mentoring other teachers, including trainees and early career teachers
• undertaking a national professional qualification (NPQ)
• supporting your school with plans to reduce workload

Headteacher salary

You could also go into a leadership position, such as a headteacher.

A headteacher is the most senior person in a school. They are ultimately responsible for all teachers and pupils.

Their role is wide ranging, but includes leading and motivating teachers, and ensuring all pupils get a good education.

Find out more about how to move up the career ladder in teaching .

If you do not have qualified teacher status (QTS)

You need qualified teacher status (QTS) to work in maintained primary, secondary and special schools in England.

If you do not have QTS (for example, if you just have a PGCE), you can work in some schools as an unqualified teacher.

This means you will be on a lower pay range and will not be entitled to the same benefits as a teacher with QTS.

If you’re already working as an unqualified teacher and have the right experience, you could be eligible for the assessment only route to qualified teacher status (QTS) .

Or find out how you can earn an unqualified teacher salary while training to get QTS on a salaried teacher training course .

Unqualified teacher salary

You’ll get more days holiday than people in many other professions. In school, full-time teachers work 195 days per year.

For comparison, you’d work 227 days per year (on average) if you worked full time in an office.

Teachers’ pension scheme

The teachers’ pension scheme is one of the most generous in the country and includes an employer contribution of 28.6%.

It is a ‘defined benefit’ pension and is:

• based on your teaching salary rather than the amount of money you pay in
• registered with HM Revenue and Customs - so your contributions are tax-free
• flexible and allows you to take some of it as a tax-free lump sum

You also get other insurance benefits too. Find out more about the teachers’ pension scheme .

Find out more about teaching

Explore more benefits of teaching, and learn what it's really like to be in the classroom.

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Whether it's just an idea or you're ready to apply, you could get personalised support from an adviser with years of teaching experience. Chat to them by phone, email or text as little or as often as you need.

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