Early Childhood Special Education: Special Education
Preliminary Education Specialist Instruction Credential
About this program
The Early Childhood Special Education Credential: Special Education prepares you to lead and collaborate in early learning settings for young children with disabilities—from birth through kindergarten. You learn inclusive, equity‑centered practices grounded in cultural responsiveness. The program blends coursework with 600 hours of field experience and student teaching. You develop the knowledge and skills to support children’s learning and development in partnership with families and communities.
Program Curriculum and Requirements
Program Scope
The Early Childhood Special Education program prepares you to support young children with disabilities from birth through kindergarten, in early intervention and early learning settings. You will learn inclusive and equity centered practices that help children access learning, build skills, and participate fully, while partnering closely with families and community teams.
Through coursework and supervised field experiences, you build practical skills in assessment, instruction, and collaboration across infant toddler and preschool to kindergarten environments. The program includes extensive clinical practice and student teaching, so you graduate ready to step into early childhood special education roles with confidence.