Special Education with Education Specialist Credential University of California, Riverside

Overview

The Special Education with Education Specialist Credential at the University of California, Riverside is a rigorous 14-month programme designed for aspiring educators. This course integrates advanced educational foundations with extensive field placements to ensure graduates are fully prepared for the classroom.

Students benefit from a cohort-based model that fosters a collaborative learning environment throughout the duration of their studies. The curriculum focuses on research-informed practices that are culturally responsive, addressing the specific needs of students with mild, moderate, and extensive support requirements.

By combining theoretical coursework with concurrent student teaching hours, the programme ensures that participants gain practical experience while they learn.

Why Special Education with Education Specialist Credential at the University of California, Riverside?

The University of California, Riverside offers a distinctive teaching feature by providing a dual credential that covers both Mild/Moderate and Extensive Support Needs. This comprehensive qualification makes graduates highly versatile and sought after within the California state education system.

The School of Education maintains strong institutional partnerships with several local school districts, including Riverside USD, Moreno Valley USD, and San Bernardino City USD. These connections provide students with diverse and high-quality field placement opportunities during their training.

Facilities such as Sproul Hall and the Research and Writing Support Centre offer students the resources needed to excel academically. The programme is known for its cutting-edge curricula, which are specifically designed to prepare educators as liberators through transformative knowledge.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 12005 per semester
• National fee: USD 12005 per semester
• Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a thorough understanding of educational issues and methodology. Modules may include:

• Educational Foundations
• Special Education
• Mild/Moderate Support Needs
• Extensive Support Needs
• Student Teaching

Careers with Special Education with Education Specialist Credential

Graduates of this programme are prepared for immediate entry into the teaching profession as qualified education specialists. The dual credential allows for employment in a wide range of public and private school settings across California.

Common career paths include roles as special education teachers, resource specialists, and learning consultants. Many graduates find employment within the university's partner districts, such as Fontana USD, Jurupa USD, and Val Verde USD, following their successful student teaching placements.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for those looking to pursue leadership roles in speech pathology or educational administration. With a Master’s in Education, alumni are well-positioned for career advancement and specialised roles within the broader education sector.