How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Missouri
| by Alex Skov
Special education teachers have the opportunity to build important relationships with students with disabilities and their families. By developing pathways to learning for these students, special education teachers can have a lasting, positive impact on their lives.
Special education teachers might find themselves teaching alongside general education classroom teachers, leading their own classrooms, or working with children in small groups. There are also opportunities for special education teachers to work in schools that specifically serve students with disabilities.
If you’re interested in a career as a special education teacher in Missouri, keep reading to learn about the requirements and the steps you could take to earn your certification in the Show Me State.
Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Missouri
Special education teachers in Missouri need to be well-versed in individualized education programs, or IEPs, which outline needs, educational goals, and the services special education students need to succeed. As part of the certification process, special education teachers in Missouri will likely take the Special Education: Foundational Knowledge Praxis exam.
Aside from those few specifics, the process of becoming a special education teacher is similar to the process of becoming an educator at any other level or subject in Missouri. You can find out more about the certification process in our How to Become a Teacher in Missouri guide, which outlines the different types of certificates, testing requirements, and advice on how to transition into teaching in Missouri.
What Do You Need to Be a Special Education Teacher in Missouri?
Like aspiring general educators, those who want to teach special education in Missouri need at least a bachelor’s degree. They also need to complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), pass their certification exams, and complete a background check through the Missouri State Highway Patrol. In addition to the Foundational Knowledge Praxis exam, there are other Praxis exams for more specialized certification, such as teaching students with visual impairments, education of deaf and hard of hearing students, and working with students with severe to profound disabilities.
If you have yet to earn your bachelor’s degree, that’s likely your first step to becoming a special education teacher. Bachelor’s degrees typically take about 4 years to complete.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree, even if it’s outside of education, you could earn your certification faster through an alternative or graduate-level EPP, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program. This program is 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates, and can be completed in as little as 9 months. It is important to note: TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Missouri, so you would follow the state’s process for out-of-state certification.
Steps to Becoming a Special Education Teacher in Missouri
In-State vs. Out-of-State Pathways
Missouri has a list of in-state EPPs if you want to go that route. If you prefer an out-of-state EPP, you’ll follow Missouri’s path for out-of-state applicants, which is outlined on the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website.
Choosing an EPP is largely based on personal preference. In deciding, you might want to think about your priorities for becoming a special education teacher in Missouri, like how quickly you’d like to earn your certification and if you prefer in-person or online classes.
If you need help getting started, download The Teacher’s Guide to Finding Your Right-Fit Educator Preparation Program. You’ll learn 10 factors to help you evaluate EPPs and find the right one for you.
Steps to Certification in Missouri
If you decide to enroll in an out-of-state EPP, like Moreland University’s online TEACH-NOW program, you could be certified in as little as 9 months. Here’s an example of the steps you could take to earn your certification:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. If you already have a bachelor’s (even if it’s not in education), you can move on to step 2.
- Complete an EPP, such as Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program.
- Pass the state-mandated Praxis exams as they correspond to your subject area. For example, aspiring special education teachers might take the Special Education: Foundational Knowledge Praxis exam to gain certification.
- Get an institutional recommendation form. You’ll get this from the registrar or certification officer of your EPP.
- Complete your background check through the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
- Submit your certification application through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s online system.
This is just one example of a potential path to certification through an out-of-state EPP in Missouri. For more detailed information, visit the Missouri DESE website.
Why the Out-of-State Path Might Make Sense for You
Missouri offers multiple pathways to certification, which is encouraging for aspiring special education teachers in the state. The out-of-state path might make sense for you if you have a teaching license from another state but want to move to Missouri to teach or if you simply prefer an out-of-state EPP.
Deciding to become a special education teacher is exciting, and choosing the right EPP for you is an important step. Be sure to think through your goals and preferences when deciding on the right pathway for you.
Can You Become a Special Education Teacher in Missouri Without a Teaching Degree?
Yes. Many of Missouri’s teachers have bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines. The Show Me State welcomes career changers with various backgrounds. In fact, transitioning to special education from another field can help you form better relationships with your students as you inspire them to explore activities outside the classroom.
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a special education teacher in Missouri, you can visit our Missouri teacher certification page.
Ready to take the next step? Earn your teacher certification in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is 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.
