Program Overview

Preliminary Education Specialist Credential in Early Childhood Special Education

The Education Specialist Credential in Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) is designed to prepare professional educators to provide quality early intervention and early childhood special education to young children, who are at risk or have disabilities and their families. The credential emphasizes the importance of involving parents as partners in intervention and prepares candidates to be respectful of the dynamics and values of families. ECSE views children as active participants in their learning, and trains candidates to use evidence-based and developmentally appropriate practices to foster children's growth and development in home-based and inclusive settings. In addition, ECSE prepares candidates to collaborate with professionals in other disciplines to meet the individual needs of children and families. Coursework and fieldwork are closely integrated to facilitate the application of theory to practice.

Early Childhood Special Education (Birth-Kindergarten) Credential Coursework

Core Courses (15 units)

• Course # | Course Title | Units
  • SPED 788 | Law, Ethics, and Instructional Planning | 3
  • Select One:
    • SPED 791 | Nature of Autism Spectrum | 3
    • SPED 825 | Communication, Behavior and Instructional Supports: Autism | 3
  • SPED 801 | Development, Diversity and English Language Learners: Special Education | 3
  • Health Education | Free CTC approved module available through department.

Methods Courses (21 units)

• Course # | Course Title | Units
  • SPED 671 | Positive Behavior Support for Young Children | 3
  • SPED 737 | Inclusive Learning and Supports in Early Intervention (Infants & Toddlers) | 3
  • SPED 738 | Inclusive Curriculum Development and Supports in Early Childhood Settings (Preschool - Kindergarten) | 3
  • SPED 777 | Introduction to Disability, Development, and Equity for Young Children and Their Families | 3
  • SPED 779 | Family-Centered Practices and Services for Young Children with Disabilities | 3
  • SPED 780 | Equitable Assessment Practices for Young Children with Disabilities and Their Families | 3
  • SPED 885 | Allyship, Leadership, and Collaboration for Young Children with Disabilities | 3

Clinical Fieldwork & Student Teaching (16-20 units)

• Course # | Course Title | Units
  • SPED 601 | Observation and Participation in Special Education | 1-3
  • SPED 701 | Education Specialist Intern Teacher: Support Seminar (required only for intern teachers) | 3
  • SPED 702 | CalTPA - Education Specialist Teacher Support Seminar | 1-3
  • SPED 729 | Student Teaching Workshop: Early Childhood Special Education | 1
  • SPED 730 | Student Teaching: Special Education | 9
  • SPED 731 | Special Education Field Experience | 3
  • Total: (52-55 units)

Additional CTC Requirements for Preliminary Education Specialist Credential

• CPR (online course not acceptable) - must cover infant, child, and adult CPR
• U.S. Constitution Requirement
• RICA Test (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment)
• Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA)-To Be Determined