With many districts reporting problems finding sufficient numbers of licensed special education teachers, the U.S. Department of Labor projects excellent job opportunities for qualified educators in the special education field. They anticipate an increase of 17% from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Prospective students considering a special education degree can study at many colleges and universities across the country. Special education programs are available not only for undergraduate and master's degree students, but for those pursuing doctoral degrees as well. Undergraduate and graduate students generally encounter coursework in general education as well as special education topics like:

• Abnormal Psychology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Behavior Management
• Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies for Teachers
• Attention Deficit Disorders: ADD and ADHD
• Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorders