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Guide for Teaching Special Education

Are you a Sonoma State Undergraduate interested in teaching Special Education? 

Special Education teachers can MAJOR IN ANYTHING! In any major you will learn content that will help you teach children with disabilities who are 5-22 years old. Teach subjects including math, science, reading/language arts, social studies, health, art, PE, and more in special classrooms. Teach children basic academic skills in small group settings. You might even teach young adults with disabilities to access workplaces and function in the community.

Three Great Options: 

1. Any Major from an Accredited Institution: 

  • Consider subject matter preparation courses as electives! Some are even GE courses!

2. SSU Majors Recommended for Special Education Teaching:

3. Early Childhood Studies Concentration in Special Education Teaching (SET):

  • B.A. & Credential in 4.5 years. That includes:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Studies
    • Elementary Subject Matter Coursework (CSET is not required)
    • Special Education Credential Courses, seminars, and student teaching
  • Apply to the Credential Program during sophomore year (or upon enrollment for transfer students).
  • Take teaching methods in junior and senior years.
  • Complete final semester full-time student teaching and teaching methods courses as a post-BA student.
  • Open to first time first year and upper division transfer students.

We encourage you to complete the following during your undergraduate program:

Contact your major advisor regarding subject matter preparation courses.

Meet the Basic Skills Requirement. This requiremet is met with a BA/BS degree granted by an accredited institution of higher education.

Demonstrate Subject Matter Competence. Subject matter can now be met with different options. Please review the information found HERE.

Obtain 45 hours of pre-program field experience working or volunteering in a classroom or other setting with children. Some SSU courses offer early field experience for example: EDUC 250EDEC 220EDEC 437.

Apply during senior year (or any time after) completing BA/BS Degree. Some requirements may be in-progress when you submit your application, but they must be completed by the time you begin the credential program.  Applications are typically due at the end of September for Spring admissions and at the end of February for Fall admissions. 

Questions? Contact the Credentials & Graduate Admissions Office