Contact Information

Acting Program Director: Diana Limon

Academic Advisor: Danielle West

Introduction/Overview

The Master of Arts in Special Education combined with the Education Specialist credential prepares candidates from a variety of academic backgrounds to work with students with exceptional needs.  Completion of the program results in a Master of Arts degree in Special Education and a preliminary Education Specialist credential. The benefits of this combined M.A. and credential in the area of special education include:

• Acquisition of the knowledge and skills needed to create access to learning for students with exceptionalities
• Focus on removing barriers to learning for students with exceptionalities through the lens of social justice
• Authentic connection and experience working with students with exceptional needs
• Completion of a combined credential/M.A. program in two years.

Program Admissions Requirements

• Graduate Application
• Candidate Information Sheet
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • At least 1 letter must verify the applicant’s experience and familiarity with the elementary school age group.
  • Letters cannot be written by family members or friends.
• Technology Requirement Form
• Fingerprint Clearance Form
• Statement of Intent
  • 3-5 page essay describing how applicant’s experiences, qualities, and goals reflect the School of Education’s conceptual framework: REAL (Respect, Educate, Advocate, Lead).
• 2 sealed, official transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended
• Verification of 20 hours of experience working with culturally diverse youth in the age group applicant plans to teach.
• Professional Resume
• Proof of satisfying California’s Basic Skills Requirement
  • Official CBEST passing scores or equivalent
• Subject Matter Competency Test (CSET) Plan of Action
• Certificate of Clearance (COC)
• Proof of Satisfying the U.S. Constitution Requirement
• Tuberculin Skin Test Results
• Interview with Program Director
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0, or a 3.05 in the last 60 undergraduate units, or a 3.0 in at least 9 graduate units
• For applicants who completed an undergraduate/graduate degree outside of the U.S.A.:
  • Transcript evaluations
  • TOEFL or IELTS minimum score

Program Requirements