A Preliminary Education Specialist Credential Program is offered in the areas of mild/moderate (M/M) disabilities and moderate/severe (M/S) disabilities, authorizing the provision of services to individuals in grades K- age 22 in inclusion programs, resource specialist program (RSP) settings, special day class (SDC), and working with adults. The credential in M/M disabilities authorizes the teaching of individuals with specific learning disabilities, intellectual disability, other health impairment, autism, and serious emotional disturbance. The credential in M/S disabilities authorizes the teaching of individuals with autism, intellectual disability, deaf-blindness, serious emotional disturbance, and multiple disabilities.
A multiple subject or single subject credential is not required as a prerequisite for admission to a credential program in special education. The Preliminary Education Specialist Credential Program in M/M disabilities and in M/S disabilities includes specified course work in multiple or single subject teacher education for those Education Specialist Credential candidates who do not hold a multiple subject or single subject credential.
Successful completion of the Preliminary Education Specialist Credential Program in mild/moderate disabilities or in moderate/severe disabilities will allow the candidate to receive a preliminary credential, which authorizes the individual to seek employment as a special educator. The Preliminary Education Specialist Credential holder must clear the credential through a Clear Induction program.
