Special Education Program Coursework & Credential Completion Requirements

PROGRAM COURSEWORK:

Once on semesters in Fall 2026, the M.S. and Education Specialist Mild Moderate Credential Program will follow a cohort model and traditional, in-person schedule for the first year. The second year will focus on the Master's research methods and Research Project in addition to receiving targeted support for candidates employed in the field. 

All candidates must maintain a 3.0 overall GPA in professional Education classes throughout the program. 

Semester Schedule

 

CREDENTIAL & MASTERS COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements for the Five-Year Education Specialist Preliminary Teaching Credential by the completion of the program*:

1. Possession of a baccalaureate or higher degree other than in professional education from a regionally accredited institution
2. Completion of Subject Matter Competency 
3. Demonstration of knowledge of the principles and provisions of the Constitution of the United States
   • POLS 112 - American & California Government, equivalent or U.S. Constitution exam offered by Cuesta College or exam offered online. Applicants who earned their bachelor's degrees at a CSU Campus will have met this requirement by virtue of their degree
4. Complete Special Education Teacher Education Preparation Program coursework and Clinical Practice
   • Meet the state requirements for developing English Language Skills, including Reading, by completing comprehensive reading instruction that includes the following: the systematic study of phonemic awareness, phonics, and decoding; literature, language and comprehension; and diagnostic and early intervention techniques.
   • Meet the state requirements for technology competency (requirement will be met by program completion).
   • HLTH 250/255/260 or HLTH 1155/1160- Personal health with emphasis on healthful behavioral practices Psychosocial, injury, sexual health, infectious and non-infectious diseases, the United States health care system, and environmental health. 
     • Approved substitute offered via UCSD Extension for non-Cal Poly applicants: EDUC 30057 Health Education for the Teacher - Send official transcripts from UCSD to Cal Poly Admissions upon course completion.
   • CPR Certification - Must include all three: adult, child, and infant training, follow the American Heart Association or American Red Cross guidelines, and be valid at the time of credential recommendation.
5. Pass the Teacher Performance Assessment (EdTPA)
6. Complete the SOE Exit Survey
7. Submit a Credential Request Application to the School of Education

 

M.A. REQUIREMENTS

The following M.A. requirements must be met to earn the M. A. in Education. You will complete these requirements during the program.

1. Successful submission of a) the Formal Study Plan, b) Advancement to Candidacy Form, c) Request to Graduate Form
2. Successful completion of coursework listed on the Formal Study Plan
3. Successful completion of the Comprehensive Examination requirement
4. Successful completion of the Inquiry Project

 

ADDITIONAL COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Evidence of completion of the speaking and writing competencies requirement (met through the Professional Aptitude Interview).

*Please refer to the Program Admission page for details regarding which requirements are due for admission purposes. This page is not to be used as an admission requirement resource.