Education Specialist Credential: Mild to Moderate Disabilities

The Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Disabilities at California State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare educators to effectively serve students with diverse learning needs. This credential prepares teachers to work with students who have mild to moderate disabilities, including learning disabilities, speech and language impairments, emotional disturbances, and other related conditions. The program emphasizes practical teaching skills, inclusive education strategies, and a strong theoretical foundation in special education. Candidates will engage in rigorous coursework covering assessment and instructional planning, behavior management, collaboration with families and interdisciplinary teams, and the use of assistive technologies to support student success. Fieldwork and student teaching components provide hands-on experience in real classroom settings, allowing candidates to develop confidence and competence in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs) and adapting instruction to meet diverse needs. The curriculum also focuses on culturally responsive teaching practices, ethical considerations, and legal requirements relevant to special education. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to contribute positively to inclusive classrooms and to advocate effectively for their students. The program is aligned with California state certification standards for Education Specialist credentials, ensuring that graduates meet all the requirements for licensure and can pursue employment across various educational settings within California. Throughout the program, candidates will benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty, collaborative learning environments, and access to resources that foster professional growth. Upon completion of the credential, teachers are eligible to apply for the California Level I and Level II Education Specialist credential, enabling them to serve students with mild to moderate disabilities throughout their careers. This program is ideal for aspiring special educators committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of students with disabilities and ensuring access to quality education for all learners.

Prerequisite Courses

The following prerequisite courses must be successfully completed, with a grade of "C" or better, or in progress at the time that you apply to the Education Specialist Credential Program.

SPED 530 Typical and Atypical Development (3)

ENGL 475 Language in Social Context (3)

SPED 345 Individuals with Disabilities in Society (3)

EDUC 512 Equity, Diversity and Foundations of Schooling (3)

EDUC 522 or 524 Creating and Managing Effective Learning Environments (5)

Bilingual Authorization Prerequisite Courses

HIST 361 Modern Latin American History (3)

EDML 617 The Socio-cultural Context of Schooling (3)

AND EITHER:

CHS 350 Chicana/o History and Culture (HIST) (3) OR

EDUC 445 Chicano Child and Adolescent (4)

In addition to the prerequisites listed above, students who wish to complete the Bilingual Authorization Emphasis in Spanish must pass the language assessment exam (CSET: Spanish III) prior to applying for the Credential Program. For test dates and other test information, please visit the CTC Exams website.

Application — Apply to both the University Admissions office and the School of Education. Applications to the School of Education are available 

Basic Skills Examination — Students must pass either the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or the revised California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) Multiple Subjects Examination plus Writing Skills, prior to admission to the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential Program. Students are urged to take either of these examinations at the earliest possible time after deciding to pursue a teaching credential.

Subject Matter Preparation — The CI Liberal Studies Option - Teaching and Learning best prepares students for the subject matter knowledge and skills required for the Education Specialist Teaching Credential Program. Students may also complete a state-approved subject matter program from other California colleges or universities. Students who have not completed a state-approved subject matter program must pass a California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) in any content area prior to admission to the Education Specialist Credential Program. The CSET examination results are valid for five years from the date of passing and must be valid upon final completion of the program Subject matter requirements are currently being revised by the CCTC. Please consult with the Credential Advisor for the latest regulations.

Prerequisite Courses in Education (16 units, 25-26 units with the Bilingual Authorization) — If taken at CI, the course must be completed within seven 7 years prior to beginning the program with a grade of “C” or better. If an equivalent course at another college or university has been taken, it must have been completed within five (5) years prior to beginning the program.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Education Specialist Credential: Mild to Moderate Disabilities program at California State University offers a range of financing options to support prospective students in their academic journey. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the number of units enrolled and the resident status of the student. California residents benefit from lower tuition rates compared to non-residents, with resident tuition typically around $7,000 per academic year, while non-residents may pay approximately $19,000 annually. In addition to tuition, students should consider costs associated with materials, textbooks, and supplies, which can amount to an additional $1,000 to $2,000 per year.

Financial aid opportunities are extensively available at CSU, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a primary application used to determine eligibility for federal grants such as Pell Grants, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize their financial aid packages. California State University also offers various institutional scholarships exclusive to education students, some of which are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or both.

Work-study programs provide flexible part-time employment opportunities for students enrolled in the program, enabling them to offset living expenses and tuition costs while gaining practical experience in the education field. Additionally, the university might offer specialized grants or stipends for students pursuing credentials in special education, especially those committed to working in underserved communities or with diverse student populations.

Many students also explore private scholarships or external funding sources offered by educational foundations and nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing careers in special education. Loan options are available through federal and private lending agencies, with federal loans typically offering more favorable interest rates and repayment terms.

Some students may qualify for reimbursement programs or loan forgiveness initiatives targeted at educators working in high-need areas or underserved districts once they complete their credential and gain employment. It is advisable that prospective students meet with the university’s financial aid advisors to develop a comprehensive financing plan tailored to their circumstances. The university frequently updates their financial information and deadlines on their official website, ensuring students receive the most current guidance on available resources. Overall, the program is designed to be accessible to a diverse student body by providing multiple pathways for financial support, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional development in special education.

The Education Specialist Credential in Mild to Moderate Disabilities is a specialized program offered by California State University designed to prepare future educators to effectively teach and support students with various disabilities, primarily in elementary through secondary education settings. This credential focuses on equipping educators with the necessary skills, knowledge, and strategies to meet the unique needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities, including learning disabilities, communication disorders, and behavioral challenges.

The program typically includes coursework covering areas such as developmental disabilities, individualized education program development, behavior management, collaboration with families and professionals, and inclusive teaching practices. Fieldwork and student teaching components are integral parts of the program, providing practical classroom experience under supervision. Candidates learn to develop and implement tailored instructional plans that foster academic success and social-emotional development for students with disabilities.

Admission requirements generally include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum undergraduate GPA, and relevant coursework or experience in special education. Candidates often need to pass a background check and may be required to complete an interview or additional assessments. The program emphasizes adherence to state certification standards and prepares students to pass the California preliminary teaching credential examinations.

Graduates of this program are qualified to work in various educational settings, including public and private schools, resource centers, and specialized education programs. The credential is valid for teaching students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms as well as in specialized settings. Continued professional development and additional certifications may be pursued to advance careers in special education.

The California State University’s program aligns with both state and national standards for special education teachers, emphasizing inclusive practices, evidence-based strategies, and ethical responsibilities. Upon completion, candidates can seek employment as Education Specialists or Special Education Teachers, contributing significantly to the academic and social success of students with disabilities. Program duration typically spans one to two years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment and the specific requirements set by the university.