The knowledge gained from a major in Special Education and Rehabilitation in the Special Education concentration of child development, pedagogy, behavioral principles, and assessment prepare students to work with children with disabilities and special health care needs in a variety of educational settings. This major leads to a teaching certification, but graduates may also seek work outside of the classroom in administration, advocacy, or curriculum design. This concentration is also excellent preparation for graduate studies in education, public health, social work, or counseling. Some of the job titles listed below may require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Teaching
- Education administration
- Curriculum design
- Outreach
- Health care administration
- Patient advocacy
- Program coordination
- Educational materials development
Sample Employers:
- Preschools
- School districts
- Colleges and universities
- Learning centers
- Government agencies
- Health departments
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nonprofit organizations
- Day care centers
- Hospitals
- Textbook and school supply manufacturers
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Special Education Teacher, Kindergarten/Elementary
|
$34,700 - $52,300
|
|
Special Education Teacher, Middle School
|
$36,400 - $53,400
|
|
Special Education Teacher, High School
|
$36,600 - $54,800
|
|
Special Education Technology Specialist
|
$33,000 - $57,000
|
|
Patient Advocate
|
$27,612 - $51,895
|
|
Health Services Administrator
|
$41,450 - $72,875
|
|
Special Education Director
|
$58,300 - $87,000
|
|
Educational Diagnostician
|
$27,000 - $73,000
|
|
Curriculum Specialist
|
$28,000 - $83,000
|
|
Child Life Specialist
|
$22,560 - $34,300
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).