Master of Science in Special Education / Education Specialist Mild/Moderate Disabilities Credential Program

Program Overview

In Cal Poly’s Special Education Program (SPED), you can earn a Preliminary Education Specialist Credential and a Master of Science in Special Education. These programs prepare a diverse group of future teachers to deliver specialized instruction, enabling all students to thrive. Through small class sizes, personalized support, and Cal Poly’s signature ‘Learn by Doing’ approach, candidates develop essential teaching skills on campus and apply them in local K-12 special education classrooms. 

Cal Poly's SPED graduates are highly sought after, with a 100% hiring rate over the last five years. The program provides California with dedicated special educators who are competent, caring, and creative. Graduates of the programs are particularly well prepared to:

1. Make data-based decisions to meet the individual needs of students
2. Use High Leverage Practices and Universal Design to meet the needs of all students
3. Motivate and engage a wide range of students to learn subject matter and become self-directed in their learning
4. Collaborate with other professionals and families to meet the needs of all learners
5. Develop learning opportunities that are accessible and align with grade-level expectations.
6. Leverage technology to achieve the above-listed and other worthy goals.

Program Learning Outcomes

By the time they complete the program, SPED Candidates should be able to:

1. Apply understandings of learner development, learning differences, and knowledge of students.
2. Create and maintain classroom routines and environments that promote learning, inclusivity, respect, and health/safety.
3. Demonstrate and apply curricular content knowledge to design and organize compelling learning experiences.
4. Select and implement scientifically validated instructional approaches to meet the individual learning needs of students.
5. Collect and analyze assessment data from multiple measures to make data-based decisions about student learning needs, service eligibility, and instructional modifications.
6. Demonstrate professionalism, ethics, legality, collaboration, and continuous growth and reflection.
7. Engage in educational research and inquiry to remain informed of best practices, current research, legislation, and debate.

Program Format

• One-year Credential Program - The credential program is 2 semesters long; starting in August and finishing in May.
• Second Year Action Research – After earning their credential, candidates can continue by taking coursework during their first year of teaching to complete their Master’s Project and earn their MS in Special Education.
• Cohort Model – Small class sizes where Teacher Candidates will move through the program together, fostering collaboration and connection
• Clinical Practice Model – Teacher Candidates will be in the field at a Clinical Practice location supported by a Cooperating Teacher and Field Supervisor for the entirety of the program
• Fully In-Person Credential – Courses will be completed in-person on the Cal Poly campus, and Clinical Practice placements will be in a SLO/SB county classroom. 
• Hybrid Style in Year Two – Courses can be completed online during year two (Master’s Research Project) of the program
• Full-Time in Year One – Coursework and Clinical Practice will be completed primarily M-F ~7:30-4

Special Education Coordinators
Dr. Leah Wood Phone: 805-756-2079 Office: Building 02, Room 108 Email: awood17@calpoly.edu	Dr. Stephen Crutchfield Phone: 805-756-7558 Office: Building 02, Room 107 Email: sacrutch@calpoly.edu

Credential Office Advising
	Please email soe@calpoly.edu with questions.
	Credential Office Advising Hours Use Bookings* to schedule a virtual advising appointment.   *Alternate times are available by appointment; please email for additional times.