Special education is a facet of teaching that focuses on delivering an appropriate education to children who struggle with mental, physical, emotional, or social delays. Special education teachers often must complete professional training and receive certification in both teaching and special education to work with students who have special needs.

Should an individual decide to gain additional certification that they are qualified in a field of study, they may decide to gain a postgraduate diploma. This type of diploma is attained after one has first completed a master's degree.