Early Childhood Studies Integrated Teacher Education Program, Special Education, BA

There is a critical need for special education teachers in California and across the nation. With the Early Childhood Studies Integrated Teacher Education program in Special Education (ECS ITEP-SE), you have the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Studies and a credential in Special Education in one, intensive four-year program.

The ECS ITEP-SE program is offered by the Department of Early Childhood Studies and the Department of Educational Leadership and Special Education in the School of Education. The mission of the Early Childhood Studies department is to prepare knowledgeable and caring professionals who are committed to contributing to a just society through high-quality education and social services for all children and families. The mission of the Education Specialist credential programs is the advancement of excellence within the special education profession. Combined, these two departments offer you a strong foundation in developmental principles and the specific skills you need to support students with disabilities in achieving their goals.

Candidates in the ECS ITEP-SE concentration take all general education requirements and core courses in the ECS core curriculum. Students transferring from a community college with an AAT in Child Development will also be able to complete the degree and credential within four years. Students who change majors or transfer with a different major may still declare ECS ITEP-SE, but the program will take longer to complete.

During the Sophomore year, students interested in the ECS ITEP-SE must apply for admission to and meet all pre-requisites for the Preliminary Education Specialist Program. Credential courses are taken beginning in the Junior year.