Teaching and Educational Services Credential Programs  {SF State Bulletin 2015 - 2016}

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Teaching and Educational Services Credential Programs

 

Teaching and Educational Services credentials are governed by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) under authority granted to it by the California State Legislature. Institutions of higher education are granted the right to recommend candidates for licensing by the CTC after this agency has approved all programs related to teacher education and educational services credentials (Administrative Services, Clinical or Rehabilitative Services, Pupil Personnel Services, and Speech-Language Pathology Services). All programs at SF State that lead to public school teaching and school services credentials have received CTC approval.

 

The professional teacher preparation programs leading to a teaching credential or services credential, along with the formal authorization to recommend the awarding of credentials, are the responsibility of the Graduate College of Education. Some required course work for credentials is offered in various colleges and departments across the University. Academic departments offering majors in approved subject matter programs are responsible for certifying the subject matter competency of candidates. If a candidate has obtained a subject matter competency waiver from another institution of higher education, the student must provide verification in their admissions application.

 

Credential and Graduate Services Center

The Credential and Graduate Services Center (CGSC) in the Graduate College of Education provides a one-stop shop for all inquiries about credential program application requirements and procedures and information about applying for or renewing teaching and services credentials. The CGSC also assists candidates in the Graduate College of Education in submitting documents for the award of master’s degrees and applying for scholarships. The Credential and Graduate Services Center is located in Burk Hall 244 (415) 405-3594; credinfo@sfsu.edu; http://gcoe.sfsu.edu.

 

The pathways one might pursue in order to become a public school teacher or university professor follow:

 

Pathways to a Career in Education

 

I want to work in:

Preschool

Elementary School

High School or Middle School

Special Education (preschool and K - 12; includes speech pathology)

Educational Administration (elementary, middle or high school principal)

Teacher Leadership, Professional Development, Program & Curriculum Development

School District Leadership

College Level TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

Community College

University

 

Preschool

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Major in Child and Adolescent Development
Admissions Tests None
Post-B.A. Preparation None

 

Elementary School

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete a bachelor’s degree in any subject, except professional education. The Liberal Studies major or Child and Adolescent Development major provides preparation for the Multiple Subjects CSET. These majors also provide 45 hours of early field experience in a public school and fulfill the second language requirement.
Admissions Tests Basic Skills Exam,
CSET: Multiple Subjects
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete a Multiple Subject Credential Program. Pass the RICA exam. Fulfill the U.S. Constitution, Level I Technology, CPR, and PACT requirements. Complete fingerprinting requirement.

 

High School or Middle School

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Major in the subject area that you plan to teach OR pass a CSET in the subject matter, fulfill early field experience and second language requirements.
Admissions Tests Basic Skills Exam,
CSET or
Subject Matter Program in Content Area
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete a Single Subject Credential program. Fulfill the U.S. Constitution, Level I Technology, CPR, and PACT requirements. Complete fingerprinting requirement.

 

Special Education

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete undergraduate preparation for elementary or secondary education and fulfill early field experience requirement.
Admissions Tests Basic Skills Exam, CSET (for Education Specialist Credentials only, except Early Childhood Special Education)
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete an Education Specialist Credential; Clinical or Rehabilitative Services Credential; or Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential program. Pass the RICA Exam (for Education Specialist Credentials only, except Early Childhood Special Education). Fulfill the U.S. Constitution requirement (for Education Specialist Credential only). Complete fingerprinting requirement. Complete CPR requirement (for Education Specialist Credentials only). Complete a Master of Science Degree in Communicative Disorders (for Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential only).

 

Educational Administration

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete a teaching or services credential program.
Admissions Tests Basic Skills Exam
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete an Administrative Services Credential program.

 

Teacher Leadership, Professional Development, Program & Curriculum Development

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete undergraduate preparation in the content area in which you wish to work.
Admissions Tests Consult individual department or program.
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete an MA in Education in a variety of available concentrations.

 

School District Leadership

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete undergraduate preparation for elementary or secondary education and fulfill early field experience requirement. Complete three years of teaching, hold a teaching credential, and hold an administrative services credential.
Admissions Tests Consult Educational Leadership Doctoral Program requirements.
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete the SF State Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

 

College-Level TESOL

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Complete an English major with a concentration in Language Studies OR prerequisite courses.
Admissions Tests Consult SF State English Department.
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete a Master of Arts in English with a Concentration in TESOL.

 

Community College

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Major in the subject you want to teach.
Admissions Tests Consult department.
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete a Master’s degree.

 

University

Requirement Satisfied by
Undergraduate Preparation Major in the subject you want to teach.
Admissions Tests Consult department.
Post-B.A. Preparation Complete a doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Ed.D.).

 

Glossary of Important Terms

Administrative Services Credential: The California basic credential that allows you to work as the principal of an elementary, middle, or high school.

 

Basic Skills Exam: A test of basic math, reading, and writing skills that all credential candidates must pass. Can be taken as soon as you have completed basic college requirements in English and math. The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is one of several ways to meet the Basic Skills Requirement.

 

Bilingual Authorization: SF State offers a bilingual emphasis (Cantonese, Mandarin and Spanish) that allows elementary school candidates to teach in bilingual programs. Course work and a language proficiency exam in the target language (Cantonese, Mandarin or Spanish) are required. Candidates must declare their intention at the time of application.

 

CTC: Commission on Teacher Credentialing. A state agency that establishes, reviews, and maintains standards for California educators and awards credentials on the recommendation of a university.

 

Clinical or Rehabilitative Services Credential: The California basic credential that allows you to work in the area of orientation and mobility.

 

CSET: California Subject Examination for Teachers. A test of subject matter competency.

 

Early Field Experience: Required for admission to most teaching credential programs. Usually consists of a minimum of 45 hours of volunteer or work experience in the type of classroom environment in which you plan to teach. Classrooms should be culturally and linguistically diverse.

 

Education Specialist Credential: The California basic credential that allows you to teach students with disabilities in specific areas of specialization (e.g., mild/moderate, moderate/severe, visual impairments).

 

Multiple Subject Credential: The California basic credential that allows you to teach in a self-contained classroom (usually grades K-5).

 

RICA: Reading Instruction Competence Assessment. A test taken after completion of courses in teaching reading.

 

School District Leadership: A doctoral-level program offered by SF State.

 

Single Subject Credential: The California basic teaching credential that allows you to teach a specific subject to different groups of students (usually grades 6-12).

 

Teaching and Services Credentials

Teaching credential programs offered at SF State comply with the Senate Bill 2042 standards. The following credential programs are available at SF State:

 

Multiple Subject Credential Programs

  • Multiple Subject
  • Multiple Subject with Bilingual Authorization in Cantonese, Mandarin or Spanish

 

Single Subject Credential Program

  • Single Subject

 

Education Specialist Credential Programs

  • Early Childhood Special Education
  • Mild to Moderate Disabilities
  • Moderate to Severe Disabilities
  • Visual Impairments

 

Education Specialist Added Authorizations

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Early Childhood Special Education
  • Orthopedically Impaired

 

Specialist Credential Programs

  • Reading and Language Arts Specialist
  • Reading Certificate

 

School Services Credential Programs

  • Administrative Services Preliminary Credential
  • Pupil Personnel Services: School Counseling, School Psychology, and School Social Work

 

Other Services Credential Programs

  • Clinical or Rehabilitative Services: Orientation and Mobility
  • Speech-Language Pathology Services: Language, Speech and Hearing

 

Multiple Subject Credential

This credential authorizes the holder to teach the various subjects taught in self-contained classrooms in pre-school through grade twelve and in classes organized primarily for adults. Self-contained classrooms exist more commonly in California pre-schools and elementary schools. This program enables candidates to teach basic skills in all major areas of the PK - 12 curriculum. The program provides training in first and second language development, content instruction, and issues of culture and cultural diversity.

 

Multiple Subject Credential (MSC) with Bilingual Authorization

In addition to the training for the MSC, candidates seeking bilingual authorization receive training in theory, methods, and materials for primary language instruction (either Cantonese, Mandarin or Spanish) in all content areas. Candidates must demonstrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency in the target language (Cantonese, Mandarin or Spanish).

 

Requirements for the Preliminary Credential

  • Baccalaureate degree, except in professional education, from a regionally accredited college or university. (Required for admission)
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (Required for admission). Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT)
  • Subject Matter Competency. Candidates must demonstrate competency in multiple subject areas by passing the Commission-approved California Subject Matter Examination for Teachers—CSET: Multiple Subjects. (Required for admission)
  • Complete second language requirement. (Required for admission)
  • Complete Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) process. (Required for admission)
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of the Constitution of the United States. Applicants may satisfy the U.S. Constitution requirement either by course work or examination. Applicants who have earned a baccalaureate degree from a CSU campus have met this requirement.
  • Level I Educational Technology requirement. May be met by taking ITEC 601 or the CSET Exams in Preliminary Educational Technology.
  • Pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) examination. RICA should be taken after taking E ED 782, Teaching Reading/Language Arts, and E ED 737, Teaching Social Studies, Social Justice, and Literacy: Grades 3 - 6.
  • Complete a comprehensive, hands-on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) training course for infants, children and adults. CPR card must be valid at the time of application for the Preliminary credential. Online CPR courses are not acceptable.
  • Complete approved program of professional preparation.

 

Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA). All multiple subject credential candidates are required to pass the Teaching Performance Assessment in order to earn a credential. Instructions and details are provided upon admission to the program.

 

Professional Education Requirements for Preliminary Credential

The Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program prepares qualified candidates with the course work and field experiences needed to effectively teach a multiple subjects general education classroom in California public schools.

 

The Multiple Subject Credential can be earned in one-calendar year (summer, fall, spring) or three-semesters (fall, spring, fall).

 

Course work is the same for both program options.

 

GPA Requirement for the Preliminary Credential

A GPA of 3.0 or better with no grade lower than a C is required in all courses comprising the professional education sequence. A grade of CR is acceptable only if mandated by the department.

 

Multiple Subject Credential — 41 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Program

Single Subject Credential

This credential authorizes the holder to teach specified subject matter courses in departmentalized classrooms, in preschool through grade twelve or in classes organized primarily for adults. Departmentalized classes exist most commonly in California middle and high schools.

 

Requirements for the Preliminary Credential

  • Baccalaureate degree, except in professional education, from a regionally accredited college/university. (Required for admission)
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (Required for admission). Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • CSU Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT).
  • Subject Matter Competency. Candidates must demonstrate competency in an approved single subject by successfully completing all required exams of the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) for the chosen subject area. Subject matter competency may also be demonstrated by completing a Commission-approved subject matter competency program from another institution of higher education . Candidates who choose this option must meet with the appropriate subject area advisor regarding competency assessment before applying to the credential program. (Required for admission)
  • Complete second language requirement. (Required for admission)
  • Complete Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) process. (Required for admission)
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of the Constitution of the United States. Applicants may satisfy the U.S. Constitution requirement either by course work or examination. Applicants who have earned a baccalaureate degree from a CSU campus have met this requirement.
  • Level I Educational Technology requirement. May be met by taking ITEC 601 or the CSET Exams in Preliminary Educational Technology.
  • Complete a comprehensive, hands-on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) training course for infants, children and adults. CPR card must be valid at the time of application for the Preliminary credential. Online CPR courses are not acceptable.
  • Complete an approved program of professional preparation.

 

Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA). All single subject credential candidates are required to pass the Teaching Performance Assessment in order to earn a credential. Instructions and details are provided upon admission to the program.

 

Professional Education Requirements

The Single Subject Teaching Credential program prepares qualified candidates with the course work and field experiences needed to effectively teach a subject area in California public schools, particularly middle and high schools. The Department of Secondary Education offers teacher preparation for people with subject-matter competency in the following areas:

  • Art
  • English
  • Home Economics
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Science
  • Social Science
  • World Languages

 

Limited World Languages Openings in Single Subject Program

The Single Subject Program can only place a limited number of World Languages candidates in student teaching. The number varies depending on the language.

 

GPA Requirement for the Preliminary Credential

A GPA of 3.0 or better with no grade lower than a C is required in all courses comprising the professional education sequence. A grade of CR is acceptable only if mandated by the department.

 

Two Semester Program for Full-Time Students

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

First Semester: Fall

Second Semester: Spring

Candidates who are currently teaching as pre-interns or interns may be eligible for the internship program; the courses must be distributed over a minimum of three semesters. Four semesters are recommended.

 

S ED 751/640 and S ED 752/660 must be taken concurrently with the student teaching courses. These are cohort courses designated for students with a high school emphasis, middle school emphasis, or intern teacher emphasis.

 

The first student teaching course (S ED 640) includes experiences in middle level or high schools, hard-to-staff schools, and classrooms with English language learners. It is comprised of approximately 8 - 10 hours per week. The subsequent student teaching course (S ED 660) may also take place in similar schools. Candidates spend approximately 20 - 25 hours per week in the classroom (schedule may vary throughout the semester).

 

Student teaching hours are completed in accordance with the school site academic calendar, not the SF State academic calendar. Some hours may be during the third week in August or the first three weeks of January, when SF State classes are not in session.

 

If admitted to the program, credential candidates will have an opportunity to express their geographic preferences for a school site. Candidates are given their school site assignments and more specific information about the schedule at the mandatory New Student Orientation.

 

Specialist Instruction Credentials

A specialist instruction credential authorizes the holder to work as a specialist in the area designated. Specialty preparation requires advanced course work and development of special competencies.

 

Reading and Language Arts Specialist Credential — 30 units

The curriculum meets the licensing requirement of the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The Reading and Language Arts Specialist Credential may be combined with the Master of Arts: Concentration Language and Literacy. Admission to the program requires a 3.0 GPA. The student must maintain a B average or better while in the program.

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Prerequisites

  • A valid basic teaching credential.
  • Verification of successful classroom teaching experience.
  • Passing score on the commission’s examination for the teaching of reading or successful completion of one of the following commission-approved reading methods courses:

Teaching Experience

Successful completion of three years of teaching in a classroom situation must be verified in writing by the administrator(s) involved in the settings where the experience took place by completion of the Reading Specialist Program.

 

Note: Candidates may complete the course work for the Specialist Credential without the completed three years of teaching experience. However, they will not be issued the credential until the three years of experience are verified.

 

Objectives for reading specialists are as follows:

  • Collaborate and consult at school sites/districts.
  • Develop a firm understanding of the professional responsibilities as an educational agent for change at the school site and district level.
  • Understand the current California State standards and curriculum changes as these apply to policy, curriculum, and practice.
  • Become the reading/language arts liaison between the state, the district, and the school site.
  • Envision their role to coordinate and provide leadership for the school-wide literacy program.
  • Develop a vision of how they will provide home-school connections that support literacy development.
  • Research ways to serve as a resource for community literacy development in English, English as a second language, or in the native language of the community.
  • Provide professional development for school site teachers, paraprofessional, and parents on research-based instructional strategies.
  • Serve as a resource for guiding assessment.
  • Provide individual assessment for students who are struggling in literacy.
  • Provide direct assessment to English language learners and guide the classroom teachers on effective instructional strategies that support literacy development.
  • Promote the use of multiple assessment tools, both formal and informal, to the staff.
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of a school-wide assessment that is aligned with the state standards in reading/language arts.
  • Use assessment as a form to inform instructional decision making for the school site.
  • Interpret assessment results for the school staff, parents, and community.
  • Apply expertise to distinguish reading and writing difficulties from second language acquisition development as these areas pertain to English language learners.
  • Assist school staff and parents to locate community resources to meet individual needs of a student that are within and beyond the school.
  • Articulate and deliver instruction by gaining knowledge in the following areas: literacy theories, assessment, and classroom applications.
  • Examine research-based theories and methods of balanced early literacy instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for use in linguistically and culturally diverse classroom settings.
  • Examine, demonstrate, and practice classroom techniques and daily professional development sessions and classroom practice that provide for and build upon diversity in students’ abilities, personal interests, linguistics, cultural and socioeconomic background characteristics.
  • Describe and demonstrate a variety of approaches to the organization of literacy instruction; e.g., individual, whole-class, homogenous and heterogeneous small groups, cooperative and collaborative groups.
  • Examine and evaluate instructional materials for reading and writing in English and English as a second language, with a focus on skills and comprehensive literacy development and aligned with the California English Language Arts and the California Language Development Frameworks and California English Development and English Language Arts: Standards for English Learners.
  • Implement instructional methods and materials in reading and writing that build motivation and self esteem by addressing individual pupil need, interests, social, emotional, linguistic, and cultural background factors.
  • Describe, demonstrate, and practice techniques for diagnostic evaluation, formal and informal assessment in reading and writing development for native speakers and English language learners in the culminating portfolio, class discussions, and presentation.
  • Research, discuss, and compare a variety of genre materials for literacy development (including technology and other media), functional, recreational, and expository purposes that reflect cultural and linguistic diversity for kindergarten to twelfth grades (selecting an appropriate range for the reading specialist’s grade span).
  • Apply knowledge for teaching reading/language arts and second language acquisition strategies to scaffold English language learners who will need additional support in the English language structure, vocabulary development, and understanding of orthographic patterns.

Required Courses

Select from the following: 3 units

Classroom Application Required

Culminating Activity in Professional Leadership

 

Education Specialist Credentials: Special Education

The curriculum meets the licensing requirements of the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Programs are organized in a two-tiered system: the Preliminary and the Clear Education Specialist.

 

Preliminary Education Specialist programs include requirements in a general education component, core requirements including health education and CPR, plus specialization courses including student teaching. The education specialist credentials meet standards for special education Birth - 12 teachers. The Preliminary credential allows graduates to teach in the area of specialization for a period of five years.

 

The Clear Education Specialist program includes core requirements and advanced curricular content for each specialization area. The Clear credential program must be completed within five years of the award of the Preliminary education specialist credential.

 

Admission Procedures

Admission to post-baccalaureate programs is based on evaluation of applications to both the department and to the University. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission to credential programs. A 3.0 GPA needs to be maintained for continuation in the program. All applicants for the Education Specialist Credentials are required to apply at the same time to the Master of Arts Degree in Special Education. If a prospective applicant already has a master’s degree, they may petition the department chair to be exempt from this requirement. Applications are available from the Graduate College of Education Credential and Graduate Services Center, Burk Hall 244, (415) 405‑3594, e-mail: credinfo@sfsu.edu, or from the Department of Special Education, (415) 338‑1161, e-mail: spedcd@sfsu.edu; web site: www.sfsu.edu/~spedcd. Check for application deadlines and requirements.

 

Preliminary education specialist credential programs are approved for the following areas:

  • Early Childhood Special Education (birth to pre-K only)–children eligible for early intervention, special education, and/or related services.
  • Mild/Moderate Disabilities (K - 12, including adults)–learning disabilities, autism spectrum, cognitive impairments, other health impaired, and emotional disturbance.
  • Moderate/Severe Disabilities (K - 12, including adults)–autism spectrum, cognitive impairment, deaf-blindness, emotional disturbance, and multiple disabilities.
  • Visual Impairments (Birth - 22 years)–blind, visually impaired, deaf-blind, and autism spectrum.
  • Early Childhood Special Education Certificate—supplemental to Education Specialist Credentials and approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (if not earning separate Early Childhood Special Education Credential, any specialist credential can add on this certificate to expand authorization for Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, Visual Impairments, or for professional growth).

 

For orientation and mobility specialization and for speech-language pathology services see Other Services Credentials.

 

Substitution of Requirements

Substitutions of course and field placement requirements may be granted when candidates have prior transcript credit and when required skill, knowledge, and performance competencies have been mastered and verified. The department chair and faculty in the area of specialization review and approve requests for course substitutions.

 

Preliminary Education Specialist Credential

Program requirements include the following:

  • A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
  • Demonstrate competence in an approved subject matter area by passing the appropriate examination(s) or by completing a subject matter program prior to admission. Required for all education specialist areas except Early Childhood Special Education. May be satisfied by completing the subject matter requirements outlined for the Multiple Subject or Single Subject Credentials.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of the Constitution of the United States. Applicants may satisfy the U.S. Constitution requirement either by course work or examination.
  • Satisfy Basic Skills Requirement: successful passage of the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), the CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test, OR an approved out-of-state basic skills exam (required for admission).
  • Satisfy Subject Matter Competency Requirement: Successful passage of the CSET Multiple Subject Test (required for admission).
  • Complete a Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) prior to fieldwork (required for admission).
  • Pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (R.I.C.A.) examination. RICA is required for all education specialist areas, except Early Childhood Special Education, prior to award of Credential.
  • Apply for student teaching, with annual deadlines of February 28 for fall enrollment and September 28 for spring enrollment.
  • Submit a Credential Approved Program (CAP) prior to student teaching reflecting all course work taken or to be completed and non-curricular requirements (submitted with application for student teaching).
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): must cover infant, child and adult CPR; online course not acceptable.

 

Education Specialist Credentials: Special Education

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Core Requirements for Preliminary Education Specialist Credentials (7 - 9 units)

Health Education courses are offered through the College of Extended Learning. A list of health education courses approved for substitution is available on the department web site: www.sfsu.edu/~spedcd/hndbksfms.html

General Education Requirements (6 units)

Not required if student possesses a Multiple Subject or Single Subject Credential, or if pursuing Early Childhood Special Education preliminary credential.

Early Childhood Special Education (44 - 56 units)

Core and General Education

Note: Student teaching requires a one-semester placement with preschool children and a second-semester placement with infant/toddlers.

 

Early Childhood Special Education Certificate (38 - 50 units)

The certificate program is supplemental to authorization programs for Education Specialist Teaching Credentials and for individuals not earning a separate Early Childhood Special Education Credential. This supplemental certificate expands authorization for individuals who wish to work with young children from birth through five years with the following preliminary education specialist credentials: Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, and Visual Impairments.

 

Prerequisite: Preliminary Education Specialist Credential

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Note: Student teaching requires a one-semester placement with preschool children and a second-semester placement with infant/toddlers.

 

Contact the department for more information: (415) 338-1161 or spedcd@sfsu.edu.

 

Mild/Moderate Disabilities (46 - 48 units)

Core and General Education 13 - 15 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

 

Moderate/Severe Disabilities (52 - 54 units)

Core and General Education 15 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

 

Visual Impairments (58 - 60 units)

Core and General Education 15 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

 

Clear Education Specialist Teaching Credential — 6 units

The Clear Education Specialist Teaching Credential at San Francisco State University is a field-based program. Starting in Fall 2010, all students admitted to the Clear Education Specialist Credential enroll in SPED 740 over 2 consecutive semesters.

 

Clear Credential Requirements:

In addition to SPED 740, students who completed the former Preliminary Level I Education Specialist Credential prior to September 1, 2010, may be advised to take a few additional classes if not previously completed (e.g., SPED 763; SPED 791; SPED 825; and Health Education requirement)

 

The Clear Education Specialist Credential enables teachers to apply their Preliminary preparation to the demands of professional positions while also gaining advanced skills and knowledge. Requirements include the following:

  • Completion of the Preliminary education specialist program.
  • Preparation and completion of a Credential Approved Program reflecting a summary of course work completed and non-curricular requirements associated with the Clear program, including enrollment in SPED 740 over two consecutive semesters.
  • Employment as a special education teacher in authorized area of specialization.
  • Equivalent work experience approved in consultation with employer and university advisor.

 

Guidelines and forms are available on-line at www.sfsu.edu/~spedcd. The webpage provides all forms and guidelines.

 

Added Authorizations Education Specialist Credentials

 

Authorization in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Students who currently have a Preliminary or Professional Clear Education Specialist Credential in Mild-Moderate Disabilities, Physical and Health Impairments or Visual Impairments, issued prior to July 1, 2010, and would like to be authorized to work with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, may complete the courses listed below and may apply to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for an ASD Authorization to be added to your existing Education Specialist Credential.

 

Students who currently have a Preliminary or Professional Clear Education Specialist Credential issued prior to September 1, 2010 in Moderate-Severe Disabilities or Early Childhood Special Education (or the added CTC Certificate in Early Childhood Special Education), already are authorized to work with students with ASD and do not need this ASD Added Authorization.

 

Students in all program areas who are working towards a Preliminary Credential under the new standards implemented after July 1, 2010 will be authorized to work with students with ASD upon completion of the authorization program and receipt of their Preliminary Credential. Each course requires 25 hours of field experience with students with ASD.

 

Authorization in Autism Spectrum Disorders — 9 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Authorization for Orthopedically Impaired (OI) — 9 units

Students who currently have a Preliminary or Professional Clear Education Specialist Credential in the following areas, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Early Childhood Special Education, Mild-Moderate Disabilities, Moderate-Severe Disabilities, or Visual Impairments, and would like to be authorized to work with students Orthopedically Impaired (OI), may complete the courses listed below and may apply to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for this Authorization in Orthopedically Impaired to be added to your existing Education Specialist Credential.

 

Students who currently have a Preliminary or Professional Clear Education Specialist Credential in Physical & Health Impairments, already are authorized to work with students with OI and do not need this OI Added Authorization.

 

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Authorization in Early Childhood Special Education — 34 - 47 units

Students who currently have a preliminary or clear education specialist teaching credential or a Certificate of Eligibility in Mild/Moderate Disabilities or Moderate/Severe Disabilities and would like to be authorized to work with students with disabilities from birth through Pre-K may complete the following courses for an Authorization in Early Childhood Special Education. The Authorization would be added to the existing Education Specialist Credential with an application to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

 

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Note: Student teaching requires a one-semester placement with preschool-aged children and a second-semester placement with infant/toddlers.

 

School Services Credentials

School services credentials authorize the holders to perform services for a school district other than classroom teaching. Preparation for the services credentials requires advanced study and administrative competence. A GPA of 3.0 or better is required for course work completed and listed on the Credential Approved Program (CAP) and a grade of C or better must be earned in every course attempted.

 

The approved programs at San Francisco State University include Administrative Services, Clinical or Rehabilitative Services (Orientation and Mobility), Pupil Personnel Services (School Counseling, School Psychology, and School Social Work), and Speech-Language Pathology Services (Language, Speech and Hearing).

 

Administrative Services

This credential authorizes the holder to serve as a superintendent, deputy superintendent, principal, assistant principal, supervisor, consultant, coordinator or other equivalent intermediate-level positions. Requirements may be met by successful completion of an accredited credential program offered by the Department of Equity, Leadership Studies, and Instructional Technologies, San Francisco State University.

 

Prerequisites required for the five-year preliminary administrative services credential are the following:

  • A valid Clear California teaching credential or pupil personnel services credential, health services credential, or library services credential or designated subjects credential with a baccalaureate degree, or a Clinical or Rehabilitative Services Credential.
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement. Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT)
  • A minimum of five years of successful full-time teaching or pupil personnel or health services, or library services experience (or combination) in public schools or private schools of equal status. Community college experience is not acceptable.

 

Upon completion of the program, the candidate will receive a Preliminary Administrative Services credential or a Certificate of Eligibility credential if an administrator position is not yet secured. The Certificate of Eligibility authorizes seeking initial employment as an administrator but does not authorize actual administrative service.

 

Internship Program
Available to students who are offered administrative positions and need the Administrative Internship Credential. Entry into this program requires a request from the district office to the chair of the Department of Equity, Leadership Studies, and Instructional Technologies.

 

The following courses are for students admitted into the internship program only; students must have prior approval by the internship faculty advisor:

EDAD 822 for EDAD 733; EDAD 823 for EDAD 743; EDAD 824 for EDAD 753 (all 3 unit courses)

 

Preliminary Administrative Services Credential — 33 units

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Note: Entry-level assessment of administrative competence is conducted at EDAD 713 and EDAD 892 for the exit-level assessment.

 

Pupil Personnel Services Credential

This credential authorizes the holder to perform, at all grade levels, the service designated on the credential that may include the following:

  • School Counseling
  • School Psychology
  • School Social Work

Requirements for the Pupil Personnel Services credential are the following:

  • A master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in the authorization area.
  • Completion of a Commission-approved professional preparation program in the authorization area, including a practicum with school-aged children.
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (Required for admission). Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT)
  • Complete the Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) process.

 

All of the programs at this university are at least two-year programs and usually include a master’s degree. Each department may have additional credential requirements in addition to those listed above. Students should inquire at the appropriate departments for up-to-date information.

 

Other Services Credentials

Clinical or Rehabilitative Services: Orientation and Mobility

The Clinical or Rehabilitative Services Credential qualifies graduates to work as orientation and mobility specialists. This credential authorizes the holder to teach orientation and mobility techniques to individuals who are visually impaired or blind from infancy through adulthood. Specialists for the visually impaired teach orientation skills, such as using landmarks and sensory cues, familiarizing oneself with the environment, and guiding oneself towards a destination. Orientation and Mobility specialists teach mobility skills for route travel, street crossings, and use of public transportation. Instruction may take place outdoors and indoors in homes and public buildings. When appropriate, lessons in cane technique and maximum use of residual vision may also be taught to ensure safe and efficient travel.

 

Program requirements for the Clinical or Rehabilitative Services: Orientation and Mobility Credential include the following:

  • Completion of a baccalaureate degree
  • Formal application to both the department and University
  • Official transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission to credential programs. A 3.0 GPA needs to be maintained for continuation in the program.
  • All applicants are required to apply at the same time to the Master of Arts Degree in Special Education. If a prospective applicant already has a master degree, they may petition the department chair to be exempt from this requirement.
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (Required for admission). Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT)
  • Completion of the Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) process (required for admission).
  • Application for student teaching with annual deadlines of February 28 for fall enrollment and September 28 for spring enrollment
  • Credential Approved Program (CAP) prior to student teaching reflecting all course work taken or to be completed, as well as non-curricular requirements (submitted with application for student teaching).

 

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Program Requirements (46 units)

 

Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential: Language, Speech & Hearing

The Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential qualifies graduates to work as language, speech, and hearing specialists. To work in the public schools, completion of the Master of Science in Communicative Disorders is required in addition to the credential.

 

To continue professional training in communicative disorders and become a practitioner, a student must complete a master’s degree. Upon completion of baccalaureate degree requirements, applicants must apply to and complete a graduate program. New graduate level and transfer students may enter the program following formal admission procedures at both the department and University levels.

 

Program requirements for the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential include the following:

  • Completion of a baccalaureate degree, preferably with a major in Communicative Disorders. If the B.A. is in another area, it is expected the applicant will meet the undergraduate requirements prior to entry into advanced course work.
  • Formal application to both the department program and University.
  • Official transcripts with minimum 3.0 GPA is required for admission to a credential program.
  • Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (Required for admission). Successful passage of one of the following:
    • California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
    • CSET Multiple Subjects Test plus Writing Skills Test
    • A Commission-approved out-of-state basic skills exam
    • CSU Early Assessment Program (EAP) Placement Test
    • Entry Level Math & English Placement Test (ELM & EPT)
  • Completion of the Certificate of Clearance (finger printing) process (required for admission).
  • Application for student teaching with annual deadlines of February 28 for fall enrollment and September 28 for spring enrollment.
  • Credential Approved Program prior to student teaching reflecting all course work taken or to be completed, as well as non-curricular requirements (submitted with application for student teaching).
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Must cover infant, child and adult CPR; online course not acceptable.

 

Academic Requirements (post-baccalaureate)

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Clinical Practica and Internship Courses (56 units)

(as required by master’s degree, including clock hours that meet ASHA certification)

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Reading Certificate

San Francisco State University offers a fifteen-unit Reading Certificate consisting of five courses, all of which apply to the Reading and Language Arts Specialist Credential, should the Reading Certificate candidate wish to complete the more advanced credential.

 

The Reading Certificate authorizes the holder to assess student reading and provide reading instruction in response to the assessments. The holder is also authorized to develop, implement, and adapt the reading and content curriculum, and assist classroom teachers in these areas. The certificate holder may perform these services at one or more school sites at the grade levels authorized by their prerequisite credential.

 

Admission to the Reading Certificate program requires that the candidate hold a valid elementary or secondary teaching credential, either (1) a teaching credential that requires a bachelor’s degree and a professional preparation program that includes student teaching, or (2) a clear, full-time designated subjects teaching credential, provided the holder also possesses a bachelor’s degree and has passed the CBEST. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester units.

 

The applicant must verify three years of successful, full-time teaching experience in any grades or subjects, pre-school through adult at the time of program completion. He/she must hold a California teaching credential. Out of state credentials must meet the requirements of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. However, neither student teaching nor internship teaching nor teaching while holding an emergency credential will count toward the three years of experience required for the Reading Certificate. The following courses are required.

Courses are 3 units unless otherwise indicated.

Reading Certificate (15 units)

Application Process
In addition to the university graduate application, please submit the following to the Reading/Language Arts Coordinator, San Francisco State University, Department of Elementary Education, College of Education, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132.

 

Submit a statement of purpose, unofficial transcript, and two letters of recommendation addressing professional and academic abilities.

 

 

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