What is a Preliminary Education Specialist, Extensive Support Needs Credential?

A Preliminary Education Specialist, Extensive Support Needs Credential authorizes the holder to teach students with extensive support needs. This includes students with multiple disabilities, neurodivergence, and cognitive disabilities in grades K-12 and through age 22 in California. This credential prepares educators to work in specialized and inclusive settings, focusing on individualized education plans (IEPs), behavior support, communication strategies, and adaptive skills. It is the initial credential required for those seeking to enter the field of special education with a focus on students who require more intensive support and specialized instruction.

Do teaching credentials expire?

Even if you stay in your home state and have no intentions of moving, most teachers still have to renew their credentials every five years. One of the main criteria for renewal is showing proof of dedication to continuing education, whether through in-service training sessions or formal academic study.

What's the difference between an Extensive Support Needs Credential and a Mild to Moderate Support Needs Credential?

A Preliminary Education Specialist, Mild to Moderate Support Needs Credential authorizes the holder to teach students with mild to moderate disabilities in grades K-12 and through age 22 in California. This credential prepares educators to work in general and inclusive classrooms, focusing on behavior support, communication strategies, and adaptive skills. It is the initial credential required for those seeking to enter the field of special education, with a focus on working with students with fewer support needs.The Preliminary Education Specialist, Extensive Support Needs Credential is distinct from other special education credentials primarily because of its specialized focus on students with higher support needs, including those with autism, multiple disabilities, or cognitive disabilities. This credential authorizes the holder to teach students in grades K-12 and through age 22 in California. It prepares educators to work in specialized and inclusive settings, focusing on individualized education plans (IEPs), behavior support, communication strategies, and adaptive skills.Other California special education credentials include Early Childhood Special Education, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Standards Visual Impairments.

What are the benefits of obtaining a Preliminary Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs Credential?

Obtaining a Preliminary Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs offers numerous benefits for educators and their students:Specialized Training: This credential provides educators with specialized training to effectively teach and support students with moderate to severe disabilities. This includes strategies for behavior management, communication, and adaptive skills.Career Opportunities: Educators with this credential are highly sought after due to the specialized nature of the role. There is a growing demand for teachers who are qualified to work with students who have extensive support needs. While this credential is specifically for teaching SPED in California, it lays the groundwork for a teacher to also work in other states with some additional coursework or testing.Making a Difference: Educators can make a significant difference in the lives of students with extensive support needs, helping them achieve their fullest potential in academic, social, and personal development.Advocacy and Leadership: Teachers with this credential often become advocates for students with disabilities, influencing policy and promoting inclusive education practices within their schools and communities.Collaboration Skills: Working with students with extensive support needs requires collaboration with families, therapists, and other educational professionals, enhancing teamwork and communication skills.Personal Fulfillment: Many educators find personal fulfillment and a strong sense of purpose in helping students with significant challenges overcome barriers and succeed in their educational journey.Earning a Preliminary Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs Credential equips educators with the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality education to students with significant support needs, while also offering a rewarding and impactful career path.

Is UMass Global accredited in California for teaching credentials?

University of Massachusetts Global's Credential and Authorization Education programs are accredited by California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). In fact, UMass Global is the second largest provider of teaching credentials in California and has been teaching teachers throughout the state for more than 60 years (previously Brandman University).

Riverside County Office of Education

The education you seek made more affordable.

Finding the time and money to go back to school while still working is a challenge. But thanks to your employer partnering with UMass Global, you can get the degree or certificate you seek, upgrading your skills and improving your career outlook. And you can do so at significant savings. Plus, our online coursework fits into the busiest of lives!

Your Discounts at a Glance

Because your employer is a Marquis Partner with UMass Global, these are the scholarships available to employees and their spouses and dependents:

20% Scholarship

Associate degrees
Bachelor’s degrees
Certificates (grad and undergrad)
UMass Global MyPath degree programs
Master’s degree programs (except as specifically noted)
Organization Custom Off-site Cohorts (as approved by the University)

15% Scholarship

Master of Arts in Teaching
Teaching Credentials (Single Subject, Multiple Subject, and Special Education)
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

10% Scholarship

Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership

How will a degree help me?

Check out some fast facts on why going back to school is a good option.

$1.2M

in additional lifetime earnings — that’s the average boost for bachelor’s degree holders compared to those with only a high school diploma

20%

more pay for having a master’s (or higher) instead of just a bachelor’s

60%

of workers will require training before 2027

I now have the skill set to go forth and be the leader to really help my community and make it better.

Anna M.

Education, Educational Administration, MAE

There are definite financial advantages to getting a master’s degree. You have the ability to max out on the pay scale. Initially, this was a motivator for me, but once I got into my master’s program and saw how I could apply what I was learning in my classroom, it wasn’t about the money so much anymore.

Steve L.

Education, Teaching and Learning, MAE

Not all doctoral programs are alike. I loved the cohort model becuase I not only earned my doctorate I also gained lifelong friends and a network of professionals I can rely on. The Ed.D. program taught me to be confident and thoughtful in my leadership decisions.

Linda C.

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

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 (CTC).

Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

University of Massachusetts Global is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

UMass Global's Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Ways to Get Started

pregnant_female_at_computer_taking_notes_at_her_desk_800x600.jpg

Get started in 6 simple steps

Speak with an Enrollment Coach — Call 800.746.0082 or fill out a request for information form.
Complete your application, it’s free and easy! — Click here to apply!
Receive your acceptance letter — Congratulations 🎉 !
Complete the scholarship verification form — Click here to fill out the form and submit your verification.
Get financially cleared — Make an appointment with our helpful OneStop Specialists.
Enroll in classes — Work with an assigned Academic Advisor to come up with a schedule that works for you.

Request Info to Learn More Today

Degree Type

Area of Interest

Program of Interest

Session

I'm active-duty military or spouse Yes No

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

Phone Number

Consent

By submitting this form, I consent to receive calls, texts, emails and advertising from UMass Global and/or Kaplan North America, LLC using the contact information provided, including mobile numbers and email addresses, which may be sent with automated or pre-recorded technology. Message & data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend and I may opt-out at any time.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Get the Benefit of a Degree

The education you seek made more affordable.

Your Discounts at a Glance

How will a degree help me?

Testimonials

Programs Offered

Extensive Support Needs, EdSp Teaching Credential

Extensive Support Needs, EdSp Teaching Credential

General Business, AA