Degrees and Pathways for Careers in Special Needs Support

For college students aspiring to careers working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs), it’s essential to pursue one of the many degrees working with special needs individuals requires. A combination of academic preparation and essential work experience will equip you to make a meaningful impact.

Several degree paths can lead to a fulfilling career in this field, each opening doors to different specializations and roles.

Social Work 

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a common starting point for entry-level non-clinical positions, with a Master of Social Work (MSW) often pursued for advanced roles. This degree is highly beneficial for positions like a developmental disability case manager, where you assist with health care services and claims. Social work emphasizes understanding individuals within their environment and connecting them with vital resources.

Psychology

Degrees in psychology, at both bachelor's and master's levels, can lead to careers in counseling, particularly specializing in disabilities. These roles focus on helping individuals cope with challenges and foster a positive outlook. A doctoral degree in psychology can further qualify you as a rehabilitation specialist or mental health case manager. Psychology coursework provides a deep understanding of human behavior, development, and mental processes.

Special Education

A special education degree offers a direct and highly relevant path, especially for those interested in working with children and teenagers with learning disabilities. A Master's in Special Education opens up a diverse range of careers beyond traditional classroom teaching. These include becoming an educational diagnostician who assesses student needs, a behavior intervention specialist, or an instructional coordinator who develops individualized education programs. 

Specializations within this field can include Autism Spectrum Disorders, Dyslexia, or Visual Impairments. This degree focuses on developing tailored educational strategies and supportive learning environments.

• Speech-language pathology. A master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology prepares you to become a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). SLPs work with individuals across all age groups who have communication or swallowing disorders, helping them improve their speaking and hearing abilities.

• Orthotics and prosthetics. For those interested in the physical support aspect, consider a master's degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics. Prosthetists design and fit assistive devices like braces and artificial limbs, significantly enhancing mobility for individuals with physical disabilities.

Beyond academic qualifications, relevant work experience is paramount — and you don’t have to wait until you graduate to get it. You can acquire valuable training by working as a direct support professional (DSP) in or out of college by working with an organization that serves special needs individuals. The skills and real-world knowledge you’ll gain as a DSP can also help you determine if this career path aligns with your passions.

Discover a Rewarding Career With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses. A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. 

We are hiring! No experience? No worries! Whether you’re currently pursuing a special needs-related degree or just exploring options, you bring a warm heart, and we'll teach you how to be a fantastic caregiver, plus give you skills that you can use to further your career. Apply now!