Should I Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education?
As a dedicated professional with nearly eight years of experience in child development, I’ve had the privilege of working with young children aged 0-7, starting from when I was just 13. Now at 21, equipped with an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, I find myself greatly influenced by my current role as a Behavioral Therapist at an ABA clinic, where I’ve been engaging with children on the autism spectrum for nearly two years.
My passion lies particularly in supporting special needs children, and I truly enjoy the daily interactions with my current group, most of whom are between 3 to 6 years old. Their small stature makes any physical aggression from them quite manageable. I am currently employed full-time and earn about $20 per hour, which I believe is a fair wage for the rewarding work I do.
Despite my satisfaction with my job, I am contemplating furthering my education by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. However, I find myself at a crossroads, unsure of what to major in or what career path I should pursue long-term. The field of Special Education is broad, offering various opportunities such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech pathology, school psychology, special education teaching, and social work.
After diving into conversations with many special education majors, I’ve encountered a range of perspectives—some have expressed regret over their choice, feeling that a bachelor’s degree in this field has confined them primarily to teaching roles.
Given my background and experience, I am eager to receive guidance on which major might align best with my aspirations and skills. I am highly motivated to return to school as soon as possible, and any insight or advice from those who have navigated similar paths would be incredibly valuable.
Thank you for your assistance!
It’s wonderful to hear about your passion for working with children, especially those with special needs, and your valuable experience in the field. Since you’re considering going back to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree and are unsure of which path to choose, here are some thoughtful considerations to help guide your decision and offer clarity regarding career options within Special Education.
Explore Your Interests
First and foremost, reflect on your personal interests within the realm of special education. You mentioned the various roles such as ABA Therapist, special ed teacher, speech pathologist, and social worker. Each of these paths requires different educational backgrounds and can lead to different daily experiences:
Behavioral Specialist (ABA): Earning a bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a related field can set a solid foundation. Look for programs that offer a comprehensive understanding of behavioral analysis and developmental psychology.
Speech-Language Pathologist: This role requires specialized training; therefore, pursuing a bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders would be beneficial, followed by a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
School Psychologist: This typically requires an advanced degree (such as a specialist or doctoral degree). Starting with a bachelor’s in psychology or special education can help you lay the groundwork.
Social Worker: A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or a related degree focused on social services may be more fitting if you are interested in this path.
Consider the Degree’s Versatility
While you rightly noted concerns from others about being limited as a special education major, it doesn’t have to pigeonhole you. Many special education programs include curricula that touch upon general education, psychology, communication, and advocacy. A degree in Special Education often equips you with valuable skills such as assessment, instructional strategies, and understanding legal and ethical considerations in education. These skills are transferable and can open doors in various roles outside of traditional teaching.
Acquire Relevant Certifications
In conjunction with your bachelor’s degree, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your employability and flexibility in your career. If you choose to stay within the realm of special education, look into certifications for ABA, behavior analysis, or developmental education. Additionally, considering specializations (like early intervention) can align your studies with your passion for working with children aged 0-7.
Seek Out Internship Opportunities
While pursuing your degree, seek internships or volunteer opportunities that align with your interests. This will not only provide practical experience but also help you network within the field. Engaging with professionals across various roles can offer insights into what each position entails and may help you clarify your career aspirations.
Talk to Professionals and Advisors
Reach out to academic advisors, mentors, or professionals working in fields of interest. They can provide guidance based on their own experiences and possibly share insights about practical job markets. Attending workshops or conferences related to special education can also broaden your understanding of the industry.
Lifelong Learning
Remember that your career path doesn’t have to be linear. You can start with a bachelor’s degree in a broader field (like psychology, sociology or a general education degree) that keeps multiple doors open. Many professionals in education undergo additional training or pivot their specializations as they progress in their careers, so consider this option as you chart your course.
Conclusion
It’s commendable that you want to further your education and deepen your impact in the lives of special needs children. Take the time to explore your options, network with professionals, and choose a path that resonates with your passion and aligns with your long-term goals. Whatever direction you choose, your commitment to learning and growth will serve you well in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those you work with. Best of luck as you embark on this exciting new chapter!