FAQ
- Can I start a Special Education credential program as an undergraduate?
- When can I enter a Special Education credential program?
- How long does it take to complete a Special Education credential?
- Can I begin a Special Education credential program in the summer?
- Do I have to have a credential before beginning the M.A. program?
- How can I learn more about the Special Education programs?
- Do I need to know what area of Special Education I want to specialize in before I begin the program?
- What' a Level II credential?
Can I start a Special Education credential program as an undergraduate?
You can complete all of the prerequisite courses as an undergraduate. Program admission occurs after completion of the Bachelor's degree.
When can I enter a Special Education credential program?
Students are admitted in Fall or Spring after they have completed prerequisites and admission requirements. In the future, Summer admission may be a possibility, but it is not currently available.
How long does it take to complete a Special Education credential?
It depends on the program sequence that you select. After prerequisites, there are three options.
- 2 semesters with a heavy academic and practicum load beginning in Fall semester.
- 3 semesters with a somewhat reduced load beginning in Spring semester and including the following Fall and Spring semesters
- 4 semesters with approximately 10 units for two academic years beginning in a Fall semester.
Can I begin a Special Education credential program in the summer?
No, but you can take prerequisite courses in the summer.
Do I have to have a credential before beginning the M.A. program?
Usually the answer is yes, but there are some special circumstances when the answer is no. A Master's degree without the credential might be the best decision for an international student or a student who does not plan to stay in California. Even for these students, prerequisites and some credential coursework above and beyond the 30-unit M.A. will be required.
How can I learn more about the Special Education programs?
- Review this website.
- Review the current SDSU Graduate Bulletin.
- Attend a Group Advising Meeting.
- Meet with a Faculty Advisor in your area of interest.
Do I need to know what area of Special Education I want to specialize in before I begin the program?
Most of the prerequisites are required for all credential programs, but you should decide which credential to pursue early in the prerequisite series.
What' a Level II credential?
Special Education credentials in California have two levels. Completion of a Level I program, is similar to a Preliminary credential and authorizes the holder to teach in the area of their training. Once employed, a candidate has 120 days to enroll in a Level II credential program. The Level II program provides advanced coursework as well as support from the employing district. It must be completed within 5 years of beginning the program, and the candidate must have two years of successful teaching experience within that time period.