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Preliminary Special Education Credential, Early Childhood SPED

Designed for candidates who want a career working with infant, toddler and preschool -age children with identified special needs, this early childhood credential prepares teachers to work in public or private preschools, childcare centers or at private homes.

Early Childhood Credential Program Overview

Our CTC accredited Preliminary Early Childhood Special Education Teaching Credential focuses on the skills needed to conduct assessments, provide instruction and special education-related services to young children with disabilities. The curriculum for the University of Massachusetts Global teaching credential provides California educators of young children with advanced methods and strategies for working with learning, development and behavior disabilities.

As a student, you will:

  • Develop the skills required to ensure that instruction and environments are appropriate for the child’s developmental age, needs and identified disabilities.
  • Assist students by cultivating collaborative relationships with families/guardians/caregivers, community members and educational personnel.
  • Reflect the value of and knowledge about children and families from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
  • Think outside the box and incorporate appropriate technology to accommodate students’ individualized needs.
 

Next Session

Summer I (Apr 29, 2024)

Estimated Tuition

Ways to Learn

Online

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

Large Support Network

With a history of training California teachers since 1958, we've built a vast network of local school districts to help our students locate fieldwork.

Earn your CA Credential Online

Affordable classes that fit your work schedule, offered 100% online so you can learn while you earn.

Culture of Inclusivity

Our credentials were designed using the CTC’s Teaching Performance Expectations to ensure our graduates create challenging but inclusive learning experiences for all.

WSCUC

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing.

What can you do with an Teaching Credential, Preliminary, Early Childhood Special Education

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    Data source: Lightcast™ 2022 www.lightcast.io

    The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

    1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032

    2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly

    3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

    Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself. 
    Leonard W.
    MA in Special Education, Behavior Analysis
    Amy J.
    I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education.  I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.
    Amy J.
    MA, Special Education
    My journey at UMass Global has been transformative. The university not only equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for success but also instills a sense of purpose and a passion for lifelong learning. If you are considering applying to UMass Global, be prepared to embark on a fulfilling educational adventure that goes beyond traditional academic boundaries.
    Julia R.
    MA in Teaching, Preliminary Education Specialist with Extensive Support Needs Credential, SDC Teacher, Palmdale School District

    Admission Requirements

    Applicants to the teaching credential program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:

    • Completed application
    • 2.75 grade point average (GPA)
    • Official transcripts showing a conferred Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
    California Only

    Successful completion of this program leads to state licensure, which is limited to the state of California and approval by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

    Letter of Good Standing

    Applicants transferring from another institution's teaching credential program must supply a letter from that institution's Education Department attesting to the applicant's good standing in the program. The letter should be written on institutional letterhead by the Dean, department chair, director of teacher education, or someone in a similar position

    HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CREDENTIAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS? Request more information>

    Preliminary Early Childhood Special Education Teaching Credential Curriculum

    This Preliminary Early Childhood Special Education Teaching Credential program equips you with the skills to instruct and support young children with disabilities. The curriculum includes coursework in family collaboration, positive behavior interventions to create inclusive learning environments, assessment, and curriculum development. You'll gain intern-eligible status after 4 classes, allowing you to begin earning practical experience while completing your online coursework. Our program offers embedded support to guide you through state credential requirements. Choose between internship and student teaching pathways, with the flexibility to switch if needed. Please note that internship placement is not guaranteed.
    • Code Course Name Credits
      Introductory Block

       

      ECED 330*   Dual Language Learners and Their Families

      3

      EDUU 639*

      Pedagogical Leadership in Early Childhood Education

      3

      EDUU 644*

      Development, Risk, and Resilience

      3

      EDUU 665* Historical, Philosophical, and Legal Foundations of Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Ed 3
      *Candidates may be eligible for internships after completing the above 4 courses

       

      Content/Emphasis Area Courses

       

      EDUU 666 Family Guided Practices in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 667

      Assessment in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 668 

      Curriculum and Intervention in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 679 

      Advanced Strategies in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 602 Positive Behavior Supports 3
      EDUU 645 Consultation, Collaboration and Co-teaching in Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education 3
      Subtotal

      30

    • Student Teaching  
      EDTU 554

      Student Teaching I: Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 576

      Education Specialist Student Teaching Seminar A

      2

      EDTU 555

      Student Teaching II: Early Childhood Special Education

      3

      EDUU 577 Education Specialist Student Teaching Seminar B

      2

       or    
      Internship    
      EDTU 575-A Supported Teaching I: Early Childhood Special Education (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 575-B Supported Teaching I:Early Childhood Special Education (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 575-C Supported Teaching I: Early Childhood Special Education (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 576-A Supported Teaching II: Early Childhood Special Education (Interns Only)

      2

      EDUU 580 Education Specialist Intern Seminar A

      2

      EDUU 581 Education Specialist Intern Seminar B

      2

      Clinical Practice Subtotal

      Credits vary depending on whether the candidate is student teacher or intern

       10-12
       Total Credits  49-51

    Want More Information About Teaching?

    Explore career opportunities in education that fit your future.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Learn more about early childhood education and strategies that can prepare you for the classroom.

    Early Childhood Education

    What is the purpose of early childhood education?

    Simply put, the purpose of ECE is to provide children with strategies that help them develop the emotional, social and cognitive skills needed to become lifelong learners. Curricula is set up to encourage young students to learn about themselves and the world through play and sensory experiences. Read more.

    What does a high-quality ECE program look like?

    A good early childhood education program is dynamic, challenging, enriching and carefully planned. A typical ECE curriculum might incorporate songs, books, art, games, toys, experiences and nature exploration into the daily lesson plans for a class or group. Explore more important elements.

    Why is early childhood education important?

    During the early childhood education years, the brain makes millions of synapses every second that allow us to move, think, communicate and comprehend our environments. Children in ECE programs are less likely to repeat a grade, more prepared for school and more likely to earn more in the workforce. Explore more benefits.

    Take the Next Step Toward Your Career With a Special Ed Teaching Credential From UMass Global!

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