Across the country, administrators are searching for teacher candidates who can meet the unique needs of special education students. Through the University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s online Master of Arts in Teaching with a Specialization in Special Education – General Curriculum program, educators are prepared to make an immediate difference for special education students upon graduation. Graduates gain tools and techniques to help students with diverse learning needs.
These educators have a profound impact on their students, helping people with disabilities achieve greater independence, find employment opportunities and improve their social skills so they feel more connected to their communities, according to K-12 Dive.
The Growing Need for Skilled Special Education Teachers in Underserved Populations
The demand for qualified special education teachers has reached a critical point, both nationally and in North Carolina. This shortage profoundly affects students with disabilities, particularly in underserved communities where access to specialized instruction is already limited. The National Association of State Boards of Education, or NASBE, highlights that for nearly three decades, the need for fully certified special education teachers has consistently surpassed supply, jeopardizing the educational opportunities guaranteed to students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
In North Carolina, the situation has only worsened following the COVID-19 pandemic. A January WRAL report reveals that schools across the state are struggling to hire and retain qualified special education teachers, leaving some students without the specialized services they require. In fall 2023, about 1,200 special education teacher positions were vacant or filled by unqualified staff in North Carolina — or more than three times the number of vacancies five years before that. This shortage not only hampers the academic progress of these students but also places schools at risk of non-compliance with state and federal laws. Complaints from parents and staff have begun to flow in, leaving school districts searching for qualified teachers who can immediately step into the gap.
What Is the M.A.T. in Special Education and Who Is it for?
M.A.T. programs are designed for professionals who have backgrounds in other fields and want to develop practical skills in specific content areas ranging from science and math to special education. The M.A.T. in Special Education is a graduate program equips educators with the skills and knowledge to effectively teach students with diverse learning needs.
The degree is particularly suited for individuals seeking an initial teaching licensure or those looking to transition into the field of special education from other disciplines. UNCP’s online Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) emphasizes practical teaching strategies and hands-on experience.
The Benefits of the Online Model for a Special Education M.A.T.
UNC Pembroke’s program is tailored to meet the needs of working professionals and those seeking a flexible pathway to licensure. The online format provides several distinct advantages, including flexibility and convenience. Students can access coursework from anywhere, allowing them to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments, according to Forbes. As Buck by Buck points out, this flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who wish to continue working while pursuing their degree.
The program’s structure also enables students to apply newly acquired strategies and concepts directly to their current educational settings in real time. This immediate application reinforces learning and enhances teaching effectiveness. For learners who prefer to absorb lessons through virtual formats such as mobile apps, simulations and discussion boards, the program is an ideal pathway to absorbing new material and benefiting from the expertise of UNC Pembroke faculty experts.
Discover Special Education Teaching Career Opportunities With UNC Pembroke
UNC Pembroke’s program emphasizes field experience and internships that bring educators in direct contact with the students they will serve upon graduation. They learn how to implement behavior management and support strategies, how to assess students with mild to moderate disabilities and how to navigate state and federal laws governing special education services. Recognized by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the program effectively prepares graduates for teaching licensure in the state.
By choosing UNC Pembroke’s online M.A.T. in Special Education, educators are not only advancing their careers but also addressing the critical shortage of special education teachers in North Carolina and beyond. The program empowers teachers to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students who need specialized instruction the most.
Learn more about UNC Pembroke’s online M.A.T. with a Specialization in Special Education – General Curriculum program.
