Current students and prospective students in the field of education might consider finding out if it is possible to pursue positions as a case supervisor with Master’s in Special Education credentials. While there are many career paths for a future professional in the field of special education, the position of case supervisor can provide some of the greatest rewards and satisfaction.
The Role of a Case Supervisor
Case supervisors are likely to find the most opportunities for employment in schools and school districts, working directly with students from early childhood development classrooms through graduation from high school. Colleges and universities also employ case supervisors to work with students, and other opportunities for employment can be found with community organizations, government agencies, and private care facilities.
A case supervisor works closely with students and their families to assess and identify challenges and barriers in learning, social development, emotional development, and other areas that are necessary for a variety of daily tasks. Case supervisors develop behavior therapy plans and manage intervention strategies on a case by case basis after researching and observing individuals with special education needs.
Some of the daily tasks of a case supervisor include working with clients, meeting with families, writing reports, and making observations. The case supervisor will spend a lot of time compiling and analyzing data in order to develop the necessary plans to help each client, as well as collaborating and communicating those results and recommendations with other educators, families, and others who are part of the therapy programs.
Master’s Degree in Special Education
While some case supervisor positions may only require an undergraduate degree, the most likely requirement will be a graduate degree. A Master’s in Special Education helps prepare candidates for the tasks and responsibilities of managing care and intervention plans for special populations. Some of the course work in this particular degree program includes assessment of students with disabilities, language acquisition, behavior management, development of social skills in special populations, instructional methods for children with disabilities, and intervention strategies.
Certifications in Applied Behavior Analysis
There are two options for gaining additional expertise in order to qualify for many positions as a case supervisor. One option is to consider earning a professional certification in behavior analysis from a professional board such as the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. This organization tests a variety of capability in handling tasks that include everything from ethics to principles of behavior changes.
Another option to consider is earning a post-graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis after completing a master’s degree. Many of these programs are designed to be completed in 18 credits, and the course work helps to prepare students to successfully pass the BACB’s certification examinations. Classes typically include ethical considerations in special education, autism spectrum intervention, applied behavior analysis assessment, and extended principles in applied behavior analysis.
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With the drive to help all students of all ages to succeed academically, socially, and personally, graduates of a graduate degree program in special education have many opportunities to make a difference. One option that can be personally and professionally satisfying is to become a case supervisor with master’s in special education degree requirements for the position.
