While many education careers are rewarding, few jobs in the field that are more meaningful than those with a focus on specialized instruction. Working with students who have diverse learning needs is both challenging and deeply valuable, and it requires a combination of passion and unique skills, especially when it comes to designing and executing appropriate curricula. Fortunately, for those education professionals who want to pursue this career path, there are specialized degree programs that can provide them with exactly the tools they need to succeed.
One such program is the University of Louisiana Monroe’s (ULM) online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction. This unique, flexible program offers you the chance to specialize in one of four distinct areas, including Special Education, allowing students to customize the program to fit specific career goals. For instance, some of the roles the degree prepares graduates for include those of Early Interventionist, Developmental Specialist and Curriculum Developer/Coordinator. This degree program is an ideal first step toward unlocking your full potential, while also serving students with complex needs.
Special Education Assessment Strategies
Curriculum design is important for all students, but lessons and learning plans for students with special needs and learning disabilities require particular care and attention. In particular, professional skills in diagnosis, curriculum adaptation and assessment strategies are essential for developing inclusive learning environments and helping to address the unique needs of exceptional learners.
ULM’s online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program offers advanced preparation specifically designed to help professionals prepare for this. Courses like Advanced Diagnosis of Exceptional Learners address an array of testing and diagnosis procedures, while placing a particular emphasis on the administration, interpretation and formulation of appropriate education programs.
Careers With a Special Education Focus
Before setting your career goals in the field of special education, it is important to know the specific details of any job you might undertake. Some examples of such roles can include:
Early Interventionist
This is an important job that often requires work in school settings. An early interventionist will offer educational support to students with learning disabilities, with a particular focus on young students. According to Indeed, an early interventionist is defined as “a behavior specialist who works with children from when they’re infants through when they’re five years old.” In addition, an early interventionist can expect to earn on average $53,315 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.
Educational Diagnostician
Another career option for graduates of ULM’s online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction could be that of educational diagnostician. According to ZipRecruiter, an educational diagnostician “evaluates students with learning challenges and identifies particular issues they may have.” Unlike an early interventionist, an educational diagnostician will work with students of all ages to conduct emotional and educational assessments. These professionals can also expect to make an average annual salary of $65,353.
Development Specialist
According to ZipRecruiter, a development specialist is responsible for crafting and overseeing programs that contribute to a child’s healthy development, often in an educational or childcare setting. Some of the responsibilities you will undertake as a development specialist include diagnosing and treating developmental delays and learning or reading disabilities, among other potential roadblocks that may interfere with a child’s ability to learn. These professionals typically earn an annual average salary of $50,885.
Why an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction Online?
When it comes to jobs in the field of special education, teaching probably comes to mind first. While educating in the classroom is important, other roles are equally vital and learning to support children with diverse learning needs through curriculum design is a critical part of the puzzle.
Discover the variety of career paths open to you as a graduate of ULM’s advanced degree program. If you have a passion for supporting such students, an online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a Special Education focus can be the perfect next step in your career.
Learn more about ULM’s online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction program.