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College Graduate Planning a Special Education Teaching Career

If you have already earned your baccalaureate degree, you will need to complete all the teacher preparation requirements for an education specialist credential. Several program types exist, including post-baccalaureate and internship programs. Each option has different requirements. There is information on this site to help you find the right program.
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Teacher Prep  
Unchecked check box Meet the basic skills requirement.
Unchecked check box Complete a Commission-approved [Education Specialist Credential Program](http://www.ctc.ca.gov/reports/data/app-edu-prep-prog.html) in an education specialist category resulting in formal recommendation by the Commission-approved program sponsor.
Unchecked check box Pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA).
Unchecked check box Complete a course or pass an examination on the U.S. Constitution.
Unchecked check box Satisfy one of the following requirements for subject-matter competence: Provide verification of subject-matter competence by either passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). **OR** Complete a Commission-approved single subject-matter program or its equivalent and obtain certification of completion from the authorized person in the education department of a California college or university with an approved program in the subject area.
  Note: Verification of RICA and subject-matter competence are not required for the area of Early Childhood Special Education, nor is it required of individuals who hold a valid California Clear, Life or Clear teaching credential based upon possession of a bachelor's degree and completion of a professional preparation program, including student teaching.

Browse the Special Education Credential Requirements for details and resources.

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