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For Special Education

To teach Special Education in California, you must have the Education Specialist Instruction Credential. It authorizes the holder to teach in the area of specialization listed on the credential in the following settings: special day classes, special schools, home/hospital settings, correctional facilities, nonpublic schools and agencies, and resource rooms. School districts may also look for other related qualifications and experience (service learning, substitute teaching , or volunteering).

A new option for obtaining an Education Specialist Instruction Credential has recently been created, and teacher preparation programs will be transitioning from the current "Level I" and "Level II" model to the new "Preliminary" and "Clear" credential model. The last date candidates may enroll in a Level I program is December 31, 2011. A chart is available that compares the two options.

To obtain a Preliminary Education Specialist Instruction Credential, the following requirements must be met:

1. Obtain Bachelor's Degree or higher from a regionally accredited university
2. Meet the Basic Skils Requirement
3. Demonstrate subject-matter competency with the CSET Test or an approved college or university program
4. Pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) test (applicants who hold a valid California teaching credential other than internship credentials, internship certificates, and emergency permits are exempt from this requirement)
5. Complete an accredited Education Specialist Credential program in an education specialist category

To obtain a Clear Education Specialist Instruction Credential, an individualized induction plan must be completed.

If you already have a Education Specialist credential, you may want to add an authorization.

Credentialed in another state? Go to the Make and Follow Your Plan section.

Interested in locating Education Specialist Instruction Credential programs that provide financial support? Create your own list. (Make sure you select "OSEP-funded Program" at the bottom of the page.)

Learn more about Special Education.