Envision the special needs educator you want to be.
At UMass Global, we’ve been providing credentials for California teachers for over six decades. In fact, we’re the state’s second largest provider of teaching credentials. The following programs will prepare you to teach very young special education students in various settings.
Have questions about enrollment, degree programs, or financial aid?
Find Your Special Education Credential
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Preliminary Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs
Education
Online
Preliminary Special Education Credential, Mild to Moderate Support Needs
Education
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Program Benefits that Benefit You.
Free Credential Test Prep
All students enrolled in the program receive complimentary credential test preparation from Teach Us, along with additional support to help you excel in your CalTPA and CSET examinations.
Preparing California’s Teachers
UMass Global is California’s second largest provider of teaching credentials; our history of support for education goes back to our founding in 1958.
Intern Eligible in Just 4 Classes
Our Intern Pathway Campaign means you can start teaching while finishing your credential work.
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about special education credentials and teaching in California.
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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.
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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 students who can participate in a general classroom environment but need accommodations to be able to keep pace with the class.
The Preliminary Education Specialist, Extensive Support Needs Credential is distinct from other special education credentials primarily due to its specialized focus on students with moderate to severe disabilities, multiple disabilities, autism, or other serious impairments. This credential authorizes the holder to teach students in grades K-12 and through age 22 in California and 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.
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To earn this SPED credential, you will need to complete 36 credit hours of coursework — 18 introductory block credits (four courses) and 18 content area block credits (six courses), along with 10 credit hours of student teaching or 12 credit hours of interning.
This SPED credential can be earned as quickly as 18 to 24 months. This timeframe assumes you take two courses per eight-week session, and it may vary depending upon the session in which you start.
Remember, should you choose the UMass Global Internship Pathway, you can begin intern teaching as the teacher of record in a classroom after only four courses. That way you can start earning a salary while finishing your credential coursework.
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Earning a special education credential offers numerous benefits for educators and their students:
- Specialized Training: This credential provides educators with specialized training to effectively teach and support students with learning 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 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 special 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 special education credential equips educators with the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality education to students with significant disabilities, while also offering a rewarding and impactful career path.
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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