If you feel called to support students with unique learning needs, you’re in the right place. Special education teachers are compassionate, creative and committed to ensuring all students can thrive. At Fresno Pacific University, we’ll walk alongside you as you prepare for this meaningful work.
Two Credential Pathways in Special Education
In California, there are two Education Specialist Credential pathways that prepare you to teach students with disabilities:
- 1. Mild to Moderate Support Needs (MMSN)
- Prepares you to work with students who have learning disabilities, ADHD, autism or mild intellectual disabilities in a range of classroom settings.
- 2. Extensive Support Needs (ESN)
- Prepares you to work with students who have more significant support needs, such as moderate to severe intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities or more complex physical/medical needs.
You can pursue one or both credentials depending on your career goals.
Steps to Become a Special Education Teacher
Here’s a basic outline of what your journey might look like:
- 1. Earn Your Bachelor's Degree
- You’ll need a bachelor’s degree (in any field) before entering a credential program.
- 2. Meet Basic Skills and Subject Matter Requirements
- Pass the CBEST or meet the Basic Skills Requirement in other approved ways.
- Demonstrate subject matter competency (usually via CSET exams or subject-matter coursework).
- 3. Apply to a Credential Program
- FPU’s Education Specialist Credential Programs provide the coursework, student teaching and support you need to earn your preliminary credential.
- 4. Complete Your Credential Program
- You’ll take specialized courses in special education and complete clinical practice hours in school settings—working directly with students under the guidance of experienced educators.
- 5. Apply for Your Preliminary Credential
- Once you’ve completed your program and met all state requirements, you’ll apply for your Preliminary Education Specialist Credential through the official website for the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
- 6. Clear Your Credential
- After teaching for a few years, you’ll complete a Clear Credential Program (often offered through your employer or a university) to move from preliminary to full certification.
Why Choose FPU?
At FPU, we care deeply about your development as both an educator and a whole person. Our faculty are experienced special educators, and our small class sizes mean you’ll be supported every step of the way. Plus, with evening and hybrid course options, you can balance your education with your current life responsibilities.
Ready to Get Started?
Explore our Education Specialist Credential Programs or talk with an advisor to find the path that’s right for you.