special education teacher with master's salary in texas

Special education teacher salary in Texas

The average salary for a special education teacher in Texas is around $57,960 per year.

Special education teachers earn an average yearly salary of $ 57,960 . Wages typically start from $ 43,360 and go up to $ 76,740 .

13 % below national average ● Updated in 2018

Special education teacher earnings by seniority

Top-level special education teacher earnings begin at :.

$ 36.89 per hour

$ 76,740 per year

Senior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 31.19 per hour

$ 64,870 per year

Mid-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 27.87 per hour

$ 57,960 per year

Junior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 24.79 per hour

$ 51,570 per year

Starting level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 20.85 per hour

$ 43,360 per year

Approximate values based on highest and lowest earning segments.

Special education teacher salary by state

How do special education teacher salaries compare to similar careers?

Special education teachers earn about the same as related careers in Texas. On average, they make less than school psychologists but more than childcare program administrators.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

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

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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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Special Education Teachers in Texas

How to Become a Teacher in this High Need Area

SpEd Teachers in Texas

• SpEd Teachers are in High Demand
• The Role of the SpEd Teacher
• SpEd Teacher Salaries
• Steps to Becoming a SpEd Teacher

Additional Resources

Special education teachers in texas are in high demand.

It’s no surprise that  49 states report a shortage of special education teachers , and 82% of special education teachers report that there are not enough professionals to meet the needs of students with disabilities. The Houston Chronicle reported a 21% growth for special education teachers at the preschool through elementary school levels and a 20% growth rate at the middle-school level. The projected growth in the employment of all special education teachers nationwide is 17% until 2020.

If you want to become a special education teacher in Texas, look no further than Texas Teachers. The Texas Teachers alternative certification program will get you fully certified to teach special education, either one-on-one with exceptional students, teaching in a classroom of developmentally delayed students, or teaching in a classroom with mostly average learners and being able to accommodate just a few learning disabled students.

Special Education (SpEd) Teacher Salaries

Since there is a growing need for special education qualifications in Texas, special education teachers enjoy more benefits than other teachers who are certified in another subject area. Special Education teachers may be offered higher salaries and often times are given a stipend by their employing school district as an incentive for retention.

Special Education teachers also receive many less tangible rewards, as their exceptional students’ progress can be greatly inspiring. Most positions will offer full benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance, along with paid summer, winter, and spring vacations, and a retirement plan. You may also receive additional pay for working with students for their extracurricular activities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) , the salary for special education teachers is as high as $67,394. On top of that, many districts will pay special education teachers a $1,000-$3,000 stipend each year.

Steps to Becoming a SpEd Teacher This Year

The Texas Teachers program is approved by the state of Texas to certify teachers in special education in a number of ways. All you need is a bachelor’s degree in any major with a 2.5 GPA to get started. We will need a completed application and official transcripts to admit you into the program.

Step 1: Training After being admitted to our program, you will complete innovative, engaging online training, and teacher observations to get you ready for the classroom. The Texas Teachers of Tomorrow program provides extensive training in pedagogy, allowing special education teachers to gain all of the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective teacher before ever stepping foot in the classroom. Throughout the training you will observe the classrooms of veteran special education teachers and complete projects to expand upon that field experience.

Step 2: Testing Special Education teachers who teach core content to a classroom of developmentally delayed students at the elementary or middle school levels will need to pass both the special education TExES exam and the Core Subjects Exam . Texas Teachers helps you prepare for these exams with comprehensive test preparation modules and an online study community. Additional test preparation materials are also provided on our Study Resources page.

Special Education teachers who teach one or more students who are included in a traditional classroom (also known as ‘inclusion’) will need to pass only the special education TExES exam.

Teachers of any subject at any grade level can add the special education certification by passing the special education TExES exam. Passing this exam allows teachers to accommodate just a few students with disabilities in their classrooms. The demand for this application of special education qualifications has steadily grown, as it allows hiring districts more flexibility when assigning students to a professional educator’s classroom.

Step 3: Teaching During your first year of teaching, also known as the Internship Year, you will receive full pay and benefits. The Internship Year provides the opportunity to work directly with children and lead your own classroom while also having help from your assigned Field Supervisor, a veteran educator with more than 15 years of experience in education.

Upon successful completion of your internship year and program requirements, you will become a fully certified teacher. Special Education teachers are in very high demand in Texas. Make a difference in the lives of students in your community by becoming a certified teacher today.

The Role of the Special Education Teacher

An early childhood special education teacher is responsible for helping infants and toddlers under the age of 5 build learning skills to prepare them for school. Parents, therapists, social workers, and medical professionals all work together to determine the best possible environment and strategies for each child.

Elementary and secondary special education teachers build lesson plans based on their assessment of each of their students’ needs. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are central to this process. Each student has their own specific set of needs and circumstances, and the IEP serves as a road map to track the student’s progress, informing the strategy behind how supervising teacher assistants, group activity, one-on-one instruction, and parents come together to assist the student in accomplishing their goals toward progress in the classroom.

The special education teacher works in conjunction with general education teachers as well as counselors and administrators to further the goals set forth in a student’s IEP. As each student’s educational steward, the special education teacher updates the IEP throughout the year to reflect their progress and goals. The IEPs you create for students will collectively determine how you structure your classroom. The Texas Teachers training program will teach you how to create effective individualized education plans based on state standards. Once the IEPs have been established, the special education teacher works with students and parents to carry them out.

Responsibilities of the Special Education Teacher:

• Assisting students as they acquire basic life skills
• Behavioral and emotional development
• Designing and implementing modified curricula to fit student abilities
• Assessing students’ performance via modified testing procedures such as oral examinations, larger print materials, and extended test times
• Collaborating with parents, counselors, physical therapists, medical professionals, administrators, and other teachers

Characteristics of a good Special Education teacher:

• Organized and good at multitasking
• Able to provide and cultivate structure for students’ routines
• Optimistic and positive
• Displays empathy and is accepting of their students
• Calm and even-tempered, even in emergency situations
• Creative problem solver
• Seeks to truly understand and encourage students
• Intuitive and able to anticipate students’ needs
• Patient and kind
• Team player

Are you ready to learn more about becoming a special education teacher in Texas? Apply for free and one of our expert program advisors will contact you to help you develop a personalized path to certification!

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER JOBS:

Typically, special education teachers work with students from pre school to high school. Some special education teachers may need to travel or work in residential facilities, hospitals, and the students’ homes. Working in a child’s home is typically more common from special education teachers that work with infants and toddlers. Many more people are starting to go into the special education teacher profession, with a projected 8% of grown from 2022-2030 and about 38,600 job openings each year. 

What is a special education teacher?

A special education teacher is someone who is a trained and certified professional, working with children and youths who have a range of disabilities. The work of a special education teacher is focused on helping students achieve their highest potential and work to excel beyond limitations. What special education teachers are able to teach their students may range depending on the disabilities of the child. Those with severe cognitive, emotional, or physical disabilities may be taught life skills and basic literacy, while those with mild or moderate disabilities may be taught the general education curriculum with modifications. Either way, being a special education teacher is an admirable and necessary occupation.

How to become a special education teacher?

Ever wonder what qualifications you need to become a special education teacher ? Look at the checklist below to see what the requirements are for this career path and how you can complete it through the Texas Teachers program: 

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree in any field or major and receive a 2.5 GPA
• Complete and submit an application and official transcriptios to be admitted into the Texas Teachers program
• Complete all of your online training and modules
• Pass the special education TExES exam and the Core Subjects Exam
• Complete an internship and all program requirements
• Now you are a special education teacher !

How much does a special education teacher make?

On average in the United States, a special education teacher makes around $61,500 per year. However, in Texas, special education teachers make an average of $58,000 per year. In terms of hourly pay, dollar amount can rage from $22 to $35 and depends on a variety of factors, like education, certifications, additional skillsets, and amount of time spent in the profession.  Below is a list of best states for special education teachers with average salary and number of jobs: 

• Maryland – the average salary is $68,000, and the number of jobs is 1,060.
• Connecticut – the average salary is $56,000, and the number of jobs is 580.
• District of Columbia – the average salary is $65,000, and the number of jobs is 235.
• New Jersey – the average salary is $55,500, and the number of jobs is 1,400.
• New York – the average salary is $60,000, and the number of jobs is 1,700.

What does a special education teacher do?

A typical day for a special education teacher can vary based on the children that are being taught, and where the teacher is actually teaching. Typically, the teacher will have to initially give students an assessment to gauge where they are at academically. From there, the special education teacher will create lesson plans or Individual Education Plans (IEPs). This helps students have both goals and teachers have action plans for completing the goals. Special education teachers may also have to create plans for students that are visually impaired and hearing impaired. Again, these responsibilities are not all of the responsibilities for a special education teacher, and each special education teacher will have their own experiences. 

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) provides additional support specifically for prospective special education teachers. Their website provides valuable resources such as their Classroom Management Series publication, video lectures, and much more.

Texas Teachers Certification Areas

Texas teachers currently offers 50+ certification areas:.

• Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources 6–12 (272)
• American Sign Language (ASL) (184)
• Art EC–12 (178)
• Bilingual Education Supplemental (164)
• Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) Spanish (190)
• Business and Finance 6–12 (276)
• Chemistry 7–12 (240)
• Computer Science 8–12 (241)
• Core Subjects EC-6 (291)
• Core Subjects 4–8 (211)
• Dance 6–12 (279)
• English as a Second Language Supplemental (154)
• English Language Arts and Reading 4–8 (117)
• English Language Arts and Reading 7–12 (231)
• English Language Arts and Reading/Social Studies 4–8 (113)
• Family and Consumer Sciences EC-12 (200)
• Health EC–12 (157)
• Health Science 6–12 (273)
• History 7–12 (233)
• Journalism 7–12 (256)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Arabic EC–12 (600 & 605)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) French EC–12 (610)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) German EC–12 (611)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Latin EC–12 (612)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Japanese EC–12 (602 & 607)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Mandarin Chinese EC–12 (601 & 606)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Russian EC–12 (603 & 608)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Spanish EC–12 (613)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Vietnamese EC–12 (604 & 609)
• Life Science 7–12 (238)
• Marketing 6–12 (275)
• Mathematics 4–8 (115)
• Mathematics 7–12 (235)
• Mathematics/Physical Science/Engineering 6–12 (274)
• Mathematics/Science 4–8 (114)
• Music EC–12 (177)
• Physical Education EC–12 (158)
• Physical Science 6–12 (237)
• Physics/Mathematics 7–12 (243)
• Science 4–8 (116)
• Science 7–12 (236)
• Social Studies 4–8 (118)
• Social Studies 7–12 (232)
• Special Education EC–12 (161)
• Speech 7–12 (129)
• Technology Applications EC–12 (242)
• Technology Education 6–12 (171)
• Texas Assessment of Sign Communication–American Sign Language™ (TASC–ASL™) (073)
• Theatre EC–12 (180)
• Trade and Industrial (T&I)

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 Texas

Becoming A Teacher

The most recent available data shows that a special education teacher in Texas makes an average mean wage of between $49,670 and $61,430.

The role of a special education teacher is critical in today’s education system. Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional or physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities, but also may teach basic skills to students with disabilities that are more severe.

Nearly 1 in 10 Texas students receive special education services from teachers within their school district. However, what a special education teacher earns in the classroom is based on a number of factors, from grade level to location and years of experience. 

If you’re considering becoming a special education teacher and want to find out your earnings potential, simply typing “average special education teacher salary Texas” into your Google search bar won’t yield the most accurate results since there are so many factors at play. 

Below we’ll take a closer look at a special education teacher salary and what you can expect. 

Special Education Teacher Salary Texas: Grade Level

Most other grade levels follow closely behind, with the exception of preschool:

• $60,030: Kindergarten and elementary school
• $60,240: Middle school
• $49,670: Preschool

Most of these figures align with national averages, according to the BLS salary data. In the United States, the median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,820 in May 2021 (though it’s important to note that the BLS reports these figures as the median, rather than the mean or average salary). 

Special Education Teacher Salary Texas: Minimum Salary

If you’re just beginning your career as a special education teacher, it’s likely that your salary won’t be as high as those with significant experience. However, the state of Texas sets a minimum base salary schedule based on years of experience. This state base salary schedule provides a good starting point for what you can expect to earn.

This salary is based on a 10-month contract that must include a minimum of 187 days of service unless a furlough program is implemented, according to Section 21.401 of the Texas Education Code.

2022-2023 Minimum Salary Schedule

Source: Texas Education Agency 2022-2023 Minimum Salary Schedule

This table only reflects the minimum you must earn as a special education teacher in Texas.

Special Education Teacher Salary Texas: Location

The location of the school district where you teach can be a major factor in the salary you will receive as a special education educator.

School districts in metropolitan areas often offer higher salaries than those in rural areas, for example. According to a salary report database that the Texas Education Agency maintains, an elementary teacher (grades 1-6) in Region 4, which includes the populous city of Houston, earns an average base pay of $64,966. 

In Region 20, which includes San Antonio, an elementary teacher earns an average base pay of $58,371. In Region 19, which includes El Paso and smaller communities like Dell City, that number drops even further to $55,906.

Although this employment data doesn’t offer a salary breakdown by district for special education teachers, it can be helpful to note salary trends based on geographical location as well as communities experiencing a high growth rate.

Special Education Teacher Salary Texas: Other Factors

One of the most in-demand teaching jobs in Texas is in special education. Each year, the state of Texas releases a list of teacher shortage areas.

For the 2022-2023 school year, the teacher shortage areas are:

• Special Education - Elementary and Secondary Levels
• Bilingual/English as a Secondary Language - Elementary and Secondary Levels
• Career and Technical Education - Secondary Level
• Technology Applications and Computer Science - Elementary and Secondary Levels
• English Language Arts and Reading - Elementary and Secondary Levels
• Mathematics - Secondary Level
• Science - Secondary Level

If you teach in one of the above areas, it can influence your earnings potential two-fold.

First, because there is generally a greater demand for special education teachers, you may have more bargaining power as a candidate when it comes to your salary. 

Secondly, teachers with certain types of student loans may qualify for partial loan forgiveness, deferment or cancellation benefits, according to the TEA. Eligibility for these benefits also depends on whether the teacher is serving in a designated low-income school. Partial loan forgiveness may help you pay off your student loans faster or free up more pay in your monthly income.

Another factor that can influence your earning potential is your benefits package. School districts that cover a high percentage of an employee’s premium can lead to larger take-home pay for special education teachers.

Lastly, because a teacher’s contract typically only accounts for 10 months of work, there are additional opportunities to earn extra income over the summer months, such as tutoring or teaching summer school. During the school year, there may be opportunities to teach extracurricular activities like sports or clubs. School districts typically compensate teachers who do this in the form of stipends.

Topics: Becoming A Teacher

Written by Scott Fikes

Scott is the Deputy Executive Director and Program Consultant. Scott earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Texas Woman's University and a Master of Education from Texas Woman's University. Scott has extensive experience in both the classroom and as an administrator in districts in North Texas.

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Special Education Teacher Salary

Rising numbers of autism, ADHD other diagnoses are helping drive the demand for special education services throughout the nation, putting an unprecedented strain on our nation’s schools to attract and retain special ed teachers. And while this is creating some real challenges for schools to overcome, for aspiring and practicing special education teachers, it simply means better opportunities to lock in a great position with the district of their choosing.

While teachers in just about every subject and grade level are dealing with the challenges of having to pick and move to a new area where they’re lucky enough to land a position, special educators often find themselves with multiple offers to consider.

Federal, State, and Local Incentives for Special Education Teachers

Salary trends for special education teachers according to location and licensure level, the rising number of students with ieps is driving demand for special education teachers, state-by-state guide to special education teacher salaries.

Special education teachers are bound to the same salary schedules as their colleagues in other subjects and specialty areas, largely due to guidelines set forth by state teacher unions.

So, while special education shortages persist throughout the nation, school districts cannot deviate from the set salary schedules as a way to recruit new special education talent. However, the federal government, state education agencies, and local school districts can and often do provide other financial incentives in an effort to attract and retain them.

Teachers working in state teacher shortage areas recognized by the U.S. Department are eligible to receive special benefits from the federal government. For example, the 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. Special education consistently manages to land toward the top of the list of high-need fields:

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

Through the Teacher Forgiveness Program , special education teachers recognized as highly qualified and teaching at either the elementary or secondary level can receive up to $17,500 in loan repayment for their Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans if they teach full-time for five consecutive school years in a low-income school or educational service agency.

Many state education agencies also offer statewide financial incentives. For example, the Minnesota Teacher Shortage Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance of up to $1,000 annually ($5,000 total) for special education teachers serving in districts located in defined teacher shortage areas.

At the local level, it’s common for school districts to offer specific financial incentives to attract teachers and encourage them to take jobs 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. The top 10%—likely those with extensive experience and/or a graduate degree—earned an average of $98,530 that year.

As of May 2019, there were 443,700 special education teachers in the U.S. By 2029, the number of working in  preschools around the country will grow by 14,300.

As expected, average salaries for special education teachers don’t vary a whole lot according to grade level:

• Preschool special education teachers: $60,000
• Kindergarten/elementary special education teachers: $60,460
• Middle school special education teachers: $61,440
• High school special education teachers: $61,710

The average salary for special education teachers is also similar to that of general education teachers at the elementary ($59,670), middle ($59,660), and high school levels ($61,660).

The top-paying states for special education teachers, according to grade level, include:

• New York: $89,930
• Oregon: $77,320
• Rhode Island: $72,750
• Connecticut: $70,400
• Montana: $68,960

Kindergarten and Elementary School

• California: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $78,830
• New York: $77,840
• Oregon: $76,880
• Connecticut: $76,780

Middle School

• New York: $87,440
• Connecticut: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $80,080
• Maryland: $78,190
• Alaska: $77,740

High School

• New York: $83,890
• California: $83,000
• Maryland: $80,800
• Oregon: $79,460
• Washington D.C.: $79,010

Increasing numbers of students in America now qualify for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) through the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)—that’s an increase of about half a million students since 2007-08. During the 2018-19 school year, 7.1 million students, or about 14 percent of the entire public school population, received services through IDEA. And in some parts of the country, the percentage of special education students is much higher. For example, in New York, more than 19 percent of all students receive special education services under IDEA.

And schools throughout the U.S. simply can’t keep up with demand.

While the lack of special education teachers is a serious and prevalent problem, for those looking to enter or advance in the field, it equates to exceptional professional opportunities and, in many cases, higher salaries, courtesy of federal, state, and local financial incentives designed to get them in the door and keep them there.

As of the 2020-21 school year, 45 states and Washington D.C. reported shortages of special education teachers, with most states reporting shortages in all or most all disability categories. Some states like Alabama and Rhode Island, are just dealing with a shortfall of qualified teachers in early childhood special education classrooms, while states like Washington and Oklahoma are experiencing shortages at all levels and in all exceptionalities.

The 45 states contending with these shortages are:

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

You can learn more about your state’s special education needs by using the U.S. Department of Education’s searchable database of teacher shortage areas .

The following BLS stats highlight what special educator teachers (at the kindergarten/elementary school level) were earning at the 50 th – 90 th percentile 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. 

All salary and employment data accessed October 2020.

Become a Special Education Teacher

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

• Salary By State
• Best States

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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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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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.

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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.

Would you sign up to teach special education for a boost in pay? Share on our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook.

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Special Education Teacher Salary in Houston, Texas

Special education teacher salary in houston, tx.

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Houston, TX? The average Special Education Teacher salary in Houston, TX is $63,717 as of August 27, 2024, but the range typically falls between $50,230 and $83,452 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

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SCHOOL SERVICES - SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - $48 PER HOUR

AB Staffing Solutions - San Antonio, TX

LOCAL CONTRACT SCHOOL SERVICES - SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - $40-50 PER HOUR

Phaxis - Austin, TX

Special Education Teacher

AB STAFFING - Killeen, TX

Austin Achieve Public Schools - , TX

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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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What Should I Pay?

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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Salary.com job board provides millions of Special Education Teacher information for you to search for. Click on search button below to see Special Education Teacher job openings or enter a new job title here.

• LOCAL CONTRACT SCHOOL SERVICES - SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - $40-50 PER HOUR Phaxis - Austin, TX Phaxis is seeking a School Services Special Education Teacher for a local contract job in Austin, Texas. Job Description & Requirements. Specialty. Special... - 5 Days Ago
• Special Education Teacher AB STAFFING - Killeen, TX Job Overview. Under general supervision of a principal and/or other designated administrator, plans and implements an instructional program and provides re... - 5 Days Ago
• Special Education Teacher Austin Achieve Public Schools - , TX Austin Achieve Public Schools is a tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school preparing Austin youth to attend and excel at the nation’s top colle... - 4 Days Ago
• Special Education Teacher International Leadership of Texas - Cleveland, TX This position is a Special Education Middle School Resource Teacher. Certified SPED Teachers starting at $80,000. (This starting amount includes stackables... - 4 Days Ago

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Company description, what does a special education teacher do, are you an hr manager or compensation specialist.

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Special Education Teacher Pay Difference by Location

Special Education Teacher salary varies from city to city. Compared with national average salary of Special Education Teacher, the highest Special Education Teacher salary is in San Francisco, CA, where the Special Education Teacher salary is 25.0% above. The lowest Special Education Teacher salary is in Miami, FL, where the Special Education Teacher salary is 3.5% lower than national average salary.

About Houston, Texas

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Level of Education for Special Education Teacher

Jobs with different levels of education may pay very differently. Check the Special Education Teacher salary of your education level.

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About Houston, Texas     Houston is located 165 miles (266 km) east of Austin, 88 miles (142 km) west of the Louisiana border, and 250 miles (400 km) south of Dallas. The city.... More

Houston, Texas   area prices were up 2.3% from a year ago     View the Cost of Living in Houston, Texas

Special Education Teacher Salary in popular cities: San Antonio ,  Dallas ,  Austin

Skills associated with Special Education Teacher: Student Information Systems (SIS) , Childhood Education , Develop Lesson Plans , Academic Focus: Special Education ... More

Recently searched related titles: Special Education Instructional Assistant , Special Education Paraprofessional , Educational Therapist

Recently searched companies with related titles : Lausd Special Education Trainee

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