The expansion of the variability of educational routes for students with disabilities determines the high demand for specialists in the field of correctional and pedagogical support. The purpose of the article is based on the analysis of the results of monitoring the views of students studying in the field of “Special (defectological) education” to identify the state of the current system of training specialists, to formulate current directions for its modernization. The methods of analysis of literary sources, survey, comparative, mathematical, statistical (Spearman correlation coefficient) and content analysis of data were used. The study involved 6,153 people studying in the field of “Special (defectological) education. The criteria that determine the choice of applicants and students of this field of study and profiles within it are disclosed and systematized. The following are determined: the readiness of students to implement work functions and act in accordance with the orientation of the educational program, their expectations in the process of employment, the initial stage of independent professional activity. The problem areas of the existing personnel training system for working with people with disabilities have been identified. Practical solutions aimed at its modernization are proposed.