Why Career Changers Are Choosing Online Special Education Degrees

Several professionals reach a certain point in their professional lives when they start seeking more than just a paycheck. What they then crave is fulfillment, a purpose in their mundane jobs, and an opportunity to make a genuine difference.

For those eager to seek work with real meaning, the field of education, particularly special education, allows a chance to pursue a new direction in your career path. Career changers aspiring to escape constant disillusionment and burnout are likely to find a more profound sense of purpose and renewed energy on this path.

To help you make a perfect start on your journey, an online Special Education degree is designed to equip learners with the right tools and knowledge for supporting students with diverse learning needs. The program helps restore profound satisfaction of assisting differently-abled individuals and giving them the strength to survive the odds.

Why an Online Special Education Degree Appeals to Career Changers

Several professionals seeking a career switch turn to the path of special education, as it is both practical and impactful. Moreover, an online Special Education degree makes this transition even more accessible and rewarding for graduates. Here are some more reasons why the degree appeals to career changers worldwide:

Pursuing Purpose After Burnout or Career Fatigue

Many professionals aspire to pursue Special Education Master’s programs when they begin to feel burned out or disoriented in their current roles. Special education enables them to pursue a career path that is impactful and gives their life meaning.

• It enables professionals to transition into a role centered on compassion and support, rather than one that requires them to work in high-pressure environments.
• It provides an opportunity to directly support the inclusion and growth of differently-abled students.
• It also helps you restore a sense of purpose and personal well-being in your own life while helping others.

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Flexible Learning with Online Programs

The best part about pursuing a Master’s in Special Education is that the degree can be completed online. This works best for working professionals who can continue with their work commitments while upskilling.

• You gain access to live classes and coursework from anywhere. All you need is reliable internet connectivity.
• You can choose to study at your own pace. Set your study schedule that works best around your work commitments.
• You can choose to continue working a full-time or part-time job. Work as you learn to move up the career ladder.

Applying Transferable Skills from Other Industries

Working in the field of special education empowers you to apply the skills you have learned in other job roles throughout your career journey. These strengths may be relevant to your special education career path and ease the transition process for you. Some of these key skills include:

• Problem-solving and critical analysis
• Empathy, support, and effective communication
• Organizational ability

Also Read: How to Become a Certified Elementary or Middle School Teacher

Strong Job Security and Demand

A high demand for online Special Education certification programs is also being witnessed, due to a proportionate increase in the demand for skilled special educators to meet the diverse learning needs of the population.

• Special educators play a crucial role in helping educational institutions fulfill their legal obligations to ensure educational inclusion.
• Schools worldwide are continually seeking qualified special education teachers.
• Special education job roles continue to be in demand even during economic downturns, hence offering long-term career stability to educators.

Personal Life Experiences that Inspire a Shift

This could be yet another reason for the gradual shift in career paths for many professionals. Personal experiences or situations often trigger their decision. These may include:

• Raising a special  needs child themselves
• A brief volunteering stint at an NGO may spark the desire to choose a long-term career path in the domain
• Growing up around a special needs child may fill you with a sense of responsibility toward others with similar others

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Common Career Options Available After a Special Education Degree

By pursuing a Special Education certification online, you become eligible to unlock a wide range of rewarding (both financially and personally) job opportunities. Here’s a look at some of them:

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (Approx)
Behavioral Analyst	USD 80,874
Occupational Therapist	USD 94,335
Social Worker	USD 69,329
School Counselor	USD 62,399
Special Education Teacher	USD 98,926

Special Education at Edgewood College: Designed for Career Transitions

Helping you make a seamless career transition is an online Special Education degree from Edgewood College. The Bachelor of Arts in Cross-Categorical Special Education – Degree Completion program is designed for working adults passionate about making a real difference in the lives of children with special needs. Courses in the major are delivered in an 8-week session format, allowing for self-paced learning among busy working professionals.

FAQs on Why Career Changers Are Choosing Online Special Education Degrees

Q: Can I switch to special education without a teaching background?
Ans: Of course! You can transition to a career in special education without prior teaching experience. However, you would need to complete the relevant certification, program, or training to enter the field and obtain the required license to teach.

Q: How long does it take to complete an online special education degree?
Ans: This may vary from one institution to another. For instance, Edgewood College’s online special education program is delivered in an 8-week format.

Q: What qualifications are required for an online special education degree?
Ans: Every institution may have its eligibility criteria. Hence, do check before applying. The course at Edgewood College accepts students who are at least 22 years of age and have completed 4 years of high school. A minimum of 2.75 GPA is required to qualify for teacher licensure.

Q: What is the average cost of an online special education degree?
Ans: The average tuition fee for the program offered at Edgewood College is USD 50,830 (approx). The cost may vary from one college to another; hence, please check before applying.

Q: Are there scholarships available for online special education programs?
Ans: Yes, Edgewood College offers a wide range of scholarships to students aspiring to pursue online special education programs. You may check the website for more details.