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Preliminary Special Education Credential, Mild to Moderate Support Needs

Our California Commission on Teacher Credentialing accredited Preliminary, Mild to Moderate Support Needs Education Specialist Credential with an English Learner Authorization prepares candidates with the appropriate strategies for assessment, instruction and collaboration to meet the educational needs of students with disabilities.

Special Education Credential Overview

Through online coursework and in-person teaching, this program prepares you to teach special education in K-12 (and through age 22) settings. You'll learn to design instruction and learning experiences tailored to your students with mild to moderate support needs.

As a student, you will:

  • Impact the lives of students by adapting your instruction to fit their needs.
  • Gain a broad base of real-world experience through field study in a range of educational settings.
  • Learn how to use assessment to adapt your instruction to fit the needs of individual students with disabilities.
  • Plan and design multifaceted evidence-based instruction and learning experiences to support positive outcomes for your students.
  • Learn to collaboratively develop Individual Education Plans/Individualized Family Service Plans to meet the needs of your students with disabilities.
  • Create inclusive learning environments based on principles of positive behavior support that reflect the diverse perspectives of students and their families.

Next Session

Summer I (Apr 29, 2024)

Estimated Tuition

Ways to Learn

Online

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 a Teaching Credential, Preliminary, Mild/Moderate

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    I have gained a deeper awareness of the many factors that influence brain based education, and how to intentionally develop brain based lessons.
    Lori P.
    Elementary School Teacher, Brain-Based Teaching Strategies Course
    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

    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

    Prior to Admission

    Subject matter competency must be fulfilled to qualify for enrollment in student teaching or internship. Candidates must sign an intent to satisfy the subject matter competency requirement through one of the following: CSET exam; subject matter preparation program; approved coursework aligned with subject matter domains; or approved academic degree.

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

    Preliminary Special Education Credential Curriculum

    Launch your career in special education with this comprehensive online program. Gain a strong foundation in teaching essentials like instruction, collaboration, and assessment. Become intern-eligible after just 4 classes, allowing you to begin teaching as the teacher of record while completing your coursework online. Our program provides embedded support to ensure you meet all state credential requirements. Later courses delve into specialized skills for special education teachers, covering areas like communication, behavior support, and individualized education plans.
    • Code Course Name Credits
      Introductory Courses

       

      EDUU 510* Introduction to Teaching

      3

      EDUU 511* Collaboration For Inclusive Schooling

      3

      EDUU 516* Introduction to Planning and Assessment 3
      EDMU 520* Literacy and Language in K-8 Classrooms I 3
      *Candidates may be eligible for internships after completing the above 4 courses

       

      EDUU 512 The Art & Craft of Teaching

      3

      EDMU 521

      or EDSU 532

      Literacy and Language in K-8 Classrooms II

      Effective Literacy Instruction for Single Subject Candidates

      3
      Emphasis Courses

       

      EDUU 517 Communication, Health, and Mobility

      3

      EDUU 602 Positive Behavior Supports

      3

      EDUU 655 Individualized Education Plan Development and Special Education Law

      3

      EDUU 663 Advanced Methods In Special Education

      3

      EDUU 664 Advanced Assessment in Special Education

      3

      EDUU 662 Collaboration and Co-Teaching 3
      Subtotal

      36

    • Code Course Name Credits
      Student Teaching    
      EDTU 550 Student Teaching I: Mild to Moderate Support Needs

      3

      EDUU 576 Education Specialist Student Teaching Seminar A

      2

      EDTU 551 Student Teaching II: Mild to Moderate Support Needs

      3

      EDUU 577 Education Specialist Student Teaching Seminar B

      2

      or    
      Internship  
      EDTU 565-A Support Teaching I: Mild to Moderate Support Needs (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 565-B Support Teaching I: Mild to Moderate Support Needs (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 565-C Support Teaching I: Mild to Moderate Support Needs (Interns Only)

      2

      EDTU 566-A Support Teaching II: Mild to Moderate Support Needs (Interns Only)

      2

      EDUU 580 Education Specialist Intern Seminar A

      2

      EDUU 581 Education Specialist Intern Seminar B

      2

      Clinical Practice Subtotal

      Clinical Practice credits vary depending on whether the candidate is a student teacher or intern.

       10-12
       Total Credits  55-57

    Become the Teacher Who Inspired You

    Have questions about enrollment, degree programs or financial aid? A UMass Global enrollment coach can help.

    Want More Information About Teaching?

    Explore career opportunities in education that fit your future.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

    Special Education

    What are key characteristics of a special education teacher?

    There are many characteristics that are essential for teachers who work with special needs students. Some examples include:

    • They are active listeners
    • They have strong social perception skills
    • They understand how to support different learning styles
    • They’re adept at complex problem solving
    • They are service oriented

    Find out more about these qualities and explore if this helping profession is right for you.  

    What is the difference between special education and inclusive education?

    Historically, students with disabilities were taught separately from the other students, hence the term "special education." That is no longer the case. Today, schools strive to deliver "inclusive education," where special education services are delivered in the general education environment. "All means all" is the philosophy where all students can learn together in the same classroom. Get strategies for fostering inclusive learning

    What is an IEP?

    IEP stands for “Individualized Education Program.” Once a child has been evaluated and their eligibility for services is confirmed, the IEP serves as the roadmap for success based on the student’s unique needs. Special Educators work with a team that includes parents, administrators, and other related service providers to develop the IEP and document.

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

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