Secondary Math Education and Special Education certification?

Question

I would like some teacher's opinions on double majoring in Secondary Math Education (5-12) and Special Education (Learning Disabilities K-12). I would have to stay in school for 1.5-2 years in addition to the 4 years I would already be there. Would it be better to just finish my Secondary Math Education and then get my masters in sped? Would both certifications even be useful to me in the long run?

Answer 1

Having the second major would be very valuable because it allows you more flexibility when looking for a job. Due to the popularity of inclusion, being dual certified means you can teach both included and regular students in the same math class. You will be truly loved for doing this.

The other issue is that due to NCLB, even special education teachers have to be highly qualified in the area that they want to teach, so your dual cert will take care of that.

I'm not sure about the master's in special education, but I would get a master's before leaving school. These days many people have them and you will behind in the job competition without it.

I would say that the kind of master's degree you get should be decided by the kind of teaching you want to do. Teaching special ed students is a very different kind of challenge than regular education and you have to love the kids to do it well.

Answer 2

I would go for the math. You will still be working with some special ed students. Then you can apply for the special ed certification through the state. A lot easier.