Online Masters Degree in Special Education

A career in special education can be rewarding because it pays better than other teaching subjects and the student-teacher interaction is greater. The best way to prepare for such a career doesn't start after graduating with a bachelor's degree in education: It starts with an online master's degree in special education.

Online Master's Degree in Special Education More Prominent

Although not every school requires their special education teachers to have graduate degrees, it is strongly preferred. To advance in the profession, an online master's degree in special education is practically necessary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more special education teachers have master's degrees than other teachers.

Special Education Teachers:

• Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary School: 40 percent have master's degrees
• Middle School: 52 percent
• Secondary School: 32 percent

Non-special education teachers:

• Kindergarten: 12 percent
• Elementary school: 25 percent
• Middle school: 27 percent
• Secondary School: 13 percent

An Online Master's Degree in Special Education Pays Better

Because of the extra education and dedication involved, special education is higher on the pay scale as well. For preschool through elementary teachers, according to the BLS, the median salary in May 2009 was $52,900. Compare that to $47,830 for regular kindergarten teachers and $50,510 for elementary school,

In middle schools, the difference is $51,970 to $50,770. In high schools, its $52,900 compared to $52,200.

In effect, an online master's degree in special education is better rewarded in preschool through elementary special than middle school and high school.

Getting the Job

Earning an online master's degree in special education is a great way to get started. After earning an online master's degree in special education, student-teaching for up to a year is next, as a good deal of preparation is necessary for the job.