Filling the Demand Gap: Earning Your MA in Special Education

The demand for skilled teachers in special education is growing rapidly. New Mexico schools urgently need specialized support for students with diverse needs. A Master of Arts in Special Education offers the opportunity to dive deeper into effective teaching strategies, gain a greater understanding of learning differences, and become an advocate for students who face unique challenges.

With the flexibility of an online degree, you can shape your expertise around your schedule, while expanding your ability to make a real difference in the classroom and beyond. The right education can transform how you approach teaching, opening up new ways to connect with and support your students—at a time when it’s needed most.

In fact, New Mexico ranks 13th in the nation in students with learning disabilities, according to the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) (see page 5). Pursuing an online Master of Arts in Special Education can provide you with the skills to help fill the demand and set you on a path to long-term career success.

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New Mexico faces a persistent shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in the field of special education. According to a KRQE News article published in November 2024, there was a 38% increase in vacancies among special education teachers across the state.

In the 2022-2023 school year, over 16 percent of public school students qualified for special education services, calling for significant improvement in the quality of education provided to students with disabilities.

New Mexico Public Education Department, 2024, page 2

This demand is only expected to grow as more students with diverse learning needs require individualized support.

A Master of Arts (MA) degree in special education helps fill this gap by providing teachers with the tools and qualifications needed to work with students with disabilities, learning differences, and behavioral challenges. With schools actively seeking well-qualified educators, a Master of Arts in Education can significantly improve job prospects and create a pathway to career advancement in the field.

MA in Education vs. MA in Special Education

When considering a Master of Arts in Education (sometimes abbreviated as MAEd) it’s essential to understand the difference between a general MA in Education and one with a special education focus.

• Master of Arts in Education: This is a broad MA degree designed to equip educators with advanced skills in teaching, curriculum development, and educational leadership. While it can prepare educators for leadership roles in various educational settings, it doesn’t offer specialized training for teaching students with disabilities or other special needs.
• Master of Arts in Special Education: This MA degree takes a more specialized approach, focusing on the methods and strategies needed to teach students with learning differences, disabilities, and other special needs. A program like this goes beyond general teaching methods to include specialized techniques for developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), working with students in inclusive and resource settings, and understanding the legal and ethical aspects of special education.

While a general MA in Education offers solid leadership and teaching foundation skills, pursuing a specialized MA in Special Education makes you more marketable and prepares you for the specific demands and challenges of teaching students with disabilities.

Career Options with a Master of Arts in Special Education

The opportunities available with a Master of Arts in Special Education are diverse and rewarding, with options spanning from classroom-based roles to administrative and leadership positions.

1. Special Education Teacher

The most direct path after earning a Master of Arts in Special Education is becoming a teacher in special education roles. In these positions, you will work directly with students who have a range of disabilities or learning challenges, developing individualized plans to help them succeed in a mainstream classroom or a specialized learning environment.

2. Special Education Coordinator or Case Manager

These positions involve overseeing the IEP process for students with disabilities. Special education coordinators ensure that IEPs are followed, staff is trained, and students receive the resources they need. They may also work with families to ensure students’ needs are being met.

3. Behavioral Specialist

Behavioral specialists work with students who struggle with behavior issues or emotional disturbances. They develop and implement strategies to help these students thrive, both academically and socially.

4. Special Education Consultant

Experienced special education teachers may decide to become consultants, offering their expertise to school districts, educational organizations, or nonprofits. Consultants can help schools improve their special education programs, create training programs, or assist with legal and policy compliance.

5. Special Education Advocate

Special education advocates work closely with families to ensure that students with disabilities receive the services and accommodations they need under the law. This role involves a deep understanding of the legal framework surrounding special education and advocating for students in school districts or during due process hearings.

Does NMSU Global Campus Assist with Licensure Upon Graduation?

Yes, NMSU Global Campus offers an online Master of Arts in Special Education designed to meet the licensure requirements for New Mexico and many other states. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue licensure as a special education teacher, provided you meet any additional state-specific requirements, such as passing relevant exams.

Additionally, the program can prepare you for certifications that may be required to work in specific areas within special education, such as autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, or behavioral disorders.

Our online program’s flexibility allows you to complete coursework while continuing to work in the classroom. This makes it easier for current teachers to pursue further education and licensure without putting their careers on hold.

Additional Certifications and Studies for Job Placement and Advancement

Beyond the core MA in Special Education degree program, there are various certifications and areas of specialization you may want to consider pursuing to enhance your qualifications and increase job placement opportunities:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Certification: Specializing in ASD can help you become an expert in working with students on the autism spectrum. This is particularly valuable in states like New Mexico, where an increasing number of students are diagnosed with autism.
• Behavioral Intervention Certification: This certification focuses on providing educators with the skills to implement behavioral interventions and support students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
• Assistive Technology Training: Understanding how to integrate assistive technologies into the classroom can be a significant advantage for special education teachers. Assistive technology enables students with disabilities to participate more fully in the classroom and can be a key component of effective special education teaching.
• Leadership and Administration Credentials: If you want to move into leadership roles such as special education director or school principal, pursuing additional coursework or certifications in educational leadership or administration may be beneficial. For example, you should explore our Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration in Pre-K-12 + Licensure.

These certifications help set you apart in the job market and can improve your ability to meet the needs of a diverse student population.

FAQ for Prospective Students Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Special Education

1. What are the prerequisites for entering the Master of Arts in Special Education program?

Generally, applicants will need a bachelor’s degree in education or another field. Learn about the five different pathways available at NMSU Global Campus. (See the Program Overview section.) Whether you’re already a licensed teacher or not, there’s a pathway to an MA in Special Education for you.

2. How long does it take to complete the program online?

The timeline can vary depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. On average, students can complete the program in about 2 years, although part-time students may take longer.

3. Can I continue working while pursuing this degree?

Yes, the online format is designed to accommodate teachers and other working professionals. You can complete your coursework on a flexible schedule while continuing to teach or work in education.

4. What types of licensure or certifications will I be eligible for after graduation?

After earning your MA in Special Education, you will be eligible for special education licensure in New Mexico, with the possibility of earning additional certifications in specific areas of special education, such as autism or behavioral intervention.

5. Are there job placement resources available after graduation?

NMSU Global Campus provides career services and guidance, helping you navigate job opportunities, develop your resume, and prepare for interviews in the field of special education.

6. Is financial aid available for the Master of Arts in Special Education program?

Yes, federal financial aid and scholarships may be available for qualified students. Explore costs and financial aid opportunities at NMSU Global Campus. At New Mexico State University Global Campus, we’re dedicated to providing as many opportunities as possible for students to achieve their education. We’re here for you every step of the way!

Why a Master’s Degree in Special Education from NMSU Global Campus is Key to Career Advancement

An Master of Arts in Special Education from NMSU Global Campus provides educators with the specialized knowledge and credentials needed to excel in the rewarding field of special education.

With a growing demand for qualified special education teachers in New Mexico and across the U.S., earning an online Master of Arts in Special Education can significantly enhance your career prospects. Whether you’re looking to advance within the classroom or pursue leadership roles in the field, this degree will equip you with the skills, certifications, and experience needed for long-term career success.

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