Early Childhood Special Education

Professional Preparation Requirements

• Preliminary Credential (Level I) Program of Studies
• Professional Clear Credential (Level II) Program of Studies
• Master's Degree Program of Studies
• Early Childhood Specialist Certificate
• SJSU University Certificate
• Minor in Atypical Child Studies Form

Program Requirements

• BA/BS degree from an accredited university and program in a related field
• Courses in Child Development
• Field Experience with young typically developing children ages birth-8 years
• Passing scores on CBEST (prior to admission)
• Interview with Program Coordinator

The Level I - Preliminary Early Childhood Special Education credential is a full-time or part-time 33 unit post baccalaureate graduate program which prepares credential candidates to become fully qualified to work with families and their young children with disabilities, developmental delays or those at risk for developmental delays both in home-based and infant/toddler and preschool settings.  In order to obtain a Level II-Professional Clear credential, the candidates must fulfill advanced competencies the following three ways:  

• graduate coursework at SJSU,
• professional development activities in the field, and
• a two year beginning teacher mentorship program with their place of employment.

SJSU offers a state approved "Add-On" certificate in ECSE for those teachers who have already obtained a clear Special Education Credential in another area.  

SJSU also offers a 14 unit University Certificate program for those related service professionals who want to acquire expertise in working with young children with special needs and their families.  Lastly, SJSU offers a 30 unit Master of Art's degree in Education, emphasis in Special Education whereby, a majority of the Level I ECSE credential courses can be applied to the Master's Program.  

Go to Admission page for requirements and procedures for admission.  Course outlines are available below.

Families, Agencies, Communities and Educational Strategies in Early Childhood. (F.A.C.E.S.) grant funds available 2006-2010 to support credential students.

For further information please contact:

Dr. Peg Hughes, Program Coordinator

hughesp@email.sjsu.edu

(408) 924-3673

Fax: (408) 924-3701