How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Colorado

Special education can be a challenging field; it requires commitment, patience, and a wide range of skills as you work with students at different academic levels and with different diagnoses. But for the right teacher, it’s also an opportunity to make a meaningful difference and to have a lasting impact on the lives of some of the most vulnerable students.

If you’re considering this rewarding career path in Colorado, you’ll find a state that values education, welcomes career changers, and offers multiple pathways to licensure. This post will walk you through the steps you could take to become a special education teacher in Colorado.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Colorado

Special education teachers follow a few specific requirements for licensure (specific licensure exams, for example). But in a lot of ways, special education teachers in Colorado follow the same essential steps to licensure as general education teachers.

For a broad overview of teacher licensure in Colorado — including alternative routes, testing requirements, and license types — check out our How to Become a Certified Teacher in Colorado guide. This resource provides detailed information about Colorado’s licensing system, the benefits of teaching in the Centennial State, and the various routes available to aspiring educators.

What Do You Need to Be a Special Education Teacher in Colorado?

Special education teachers in Colorado must have at least a bachelor’s degree and complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). They’ll also pass a series of Praxis exams — or demonstrate content knowledge in a different way — and clear fingerprint and background checks.

If you’re a high school graduate, it will likely take you around 4 years to earn a teaching license as you complete your bachelor’s degree in education.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, however, you don’t have to start over. And you could become a licensed teacher much faster, through a graduate-level EPP. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, can be completed in as little as 9 months. Now, it’s important to note that TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Colorado, so you would apply for your Colorado license through the out-of-state process.

Steps to Becoming a Special Education Teacher in Colorado  

In-State vs. Out-of-State Pathways  

Colorado offers flexibility when it comes to earning a special education teacher license. The state has a searchable list of approved in-state EPPs. If you prefer an out-of-state program, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program, you’ll simply follow Colorado’s process for out-of-state applicants.

Both in- and out-of-state pathways lead to the same credential, so your choice often comes down to personal preference, schedule, and program structure. In-state programs may offer more face-to face interaction and local networking opportunities, while out-of-state programs (particularly online options) can provide greater flexibility for those balancing work or family commitments.

Steps to Licensure in Colorado  

Let’s say you choose Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program, an out-of-state EPP for Colorado. Here’s an example of the steps you could take to earn your special education teaching license:  

1. Earn your bachelor’s degree. This degree does not need to be in education; Colorado welcomes career changers with degrees and experience in other fields.
2. Complete your EPP. The TEACH-NOW program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as 9 months. 
3. Demonstrate content knowledge. Colorado teachers take Praxis exams, and special education teachers will take exams for their focus area. For example, you might take the Foundations for Special Education exam along with tests on teaching reading and math. Colorado also allows teachers to demonstrate content knowledge in other ways, such as a portfolio review.  
4. Get a completed verification form for your out-of-state EPP. You’ll get this from the registrar or certification officer of your EPP.  
5. Complete your background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. 
6. Submit your licensure application through the Colorado Department of Education’s online system.  

It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path. For more detailed information, visit the Colorado Department of Education website. 

Can You Become a Special Education Teacher in Colorado Without a Teaching Degree?  

Yes, and in fact, Colorado actively welcomes career changers. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue your special education license through a graduate-level EPP. 

Special education is a growing field in Colorado, and the state is projecting nearly 1,000 openings a year for special-ed teachers, according to data from the U.S. Dept. of Labor. If you’re a career changer ready to make the move, your experience outside the classroom could end up being a huge benefit for your students as you share your knowledge and skills.

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Ready to take the next step? Earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.  

Once you complete the TEACH-NOW program, you have the option to add on a master’s degree in just 3 additional months.

Apply for free (the application only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.