Teaching Special Education - Hearing Impairments

Candidates with strong people skills and an interest in linguistics or audiology may consider the hearing impairment disabilities area of special education. Degree programs in this field, which are available at the undergraduate and graduate levels, blend traditional classwork with fieldwork to provide graduates with the necessary tools to work with special needs students.

Inside Teaching of Hearing Impaired

The National Technical Institute for the Deaf estimated that as recently as 2011 there were over 28 million individuals, including one million children, with some level of hearing loss in the United States (www.ntid.rit.edu). To teach special needs students, included learners with hearing impairments, every state has licensure requirements, which can vary by state. It is also necessary to hold at least a bachelor's degree and complete a training program for teachers. Some states also require individuals to pass certification exams, participate in student teaching or undergo a background check.

Students taking courses for hearing impairment specialization can learn about linguistics, auditory development and sign language. Some programs also offer internship opportunities with local organizations, hospitals or schools. Once a person attains a credential and finishes their degree program, they can pursue employment as a special education teacher with educational agencies or private and public academic institutions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for special education teachers is predicted to rise by 17% from 2008 to 2018 (www.bls.gov). The BLS notes that this may be due to an increase in student population in some parts of the United States, such as western and southern areas. The BLS also reported that in 2008 the median annual salary for special education teachers in the elementary setting was $50,020, while the median annual wage for special education teachers working in secondary schools was $51,340.

Learn More About Teaching of Hearing Impaired

The field of special education offers numerous opportunities for educators, as well as those who wish to further their training at the graduate level. Whether you're just beginning to research this subject or you are taking steps to advance your career, Education-Portal.com provides you with tools to expand your knowledge.

Degree Options

Students can begin their special education through an associate's degree program and specialize their training all the way to the doctorate degree level. Certificate programs and concentrations are also available for those who want to teach special education or pursue hearing impairment focused education.

Career Options

Special education is a field that provides many types of career opportunities. The following are just a few examples of the options you can pursue with a degree in special education. Some of these careers, specifically those in teaching, may also require state certification.

Distance Learning Options

Some schools offer special education instruction virtually through distance learning courses or full degree programs. Education-Portal.com provides information on the many reputable colleges and universities where you can find programs at any level.