Graduate School of Education

Clear Education Specialist Credential Programs

Please contact a counselor if you wish to pursue a Level II Credential.

Mild/Moderate, Moderate/Severe Specialties

Program Overview

As today's schools, academic programs and educational requirements become more complex, the needs of special education students continue to be individualized and comprehensive. California Lutheran University's credential programs in special education blend theoretical instruction with opportunities for the practical application of knowledge, offering you an ideal avenue for heightened effectiveness. Upon completion of the program, candidates will be eligible for the Level II or Clear Education Specialist Credential with a Mild/Moderate or Moderate/Severe specialty offered by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Program Highlights

Candidates in the Special Education credential programs benefit from an integration of theoretical knowledge with an abundance of opportunities for practical application in meaningful settings.

The credential program features specialized tracks in Mild to Moderate (M/M) and Moderate to Severe (M/S) disabilities, and is distinct from similar programs in the region due to the extensive personal support and empowerment training. Classes rarely exceed 20 students, and the faculty is comprised of highly regarded professional practitioners in the field.

Clear Requirements

Upon successful completion of the clear requirements listed below, candidates are eligible for both the Clear Credential and the Master of Science degree in Special Education. 

Candidates needing to clear the Preliminary Education Specialist credential may complete the Clear Education Specialist credential program for their disability area (M/M or M/S).   The following courses are required to successfully complete this 9-unit program:

  • EDSP 510. Action Research (3)
  • EDSP 599. Classroom Action Research Project (3)
  • EDSP 553. Induction (Development and Assessment) (3)

Courses

EDSP 510 Action Research Methods for Practitioners (3 units)

Designed for students in programs in the Department of Advanced Studies. A systematic study and analysis of current research and methods of conducting research in educational settings. The objectives in this course focus on the knowledge base (A); the techniques (B); and applications (C) of action research.

EDSP 553A Induction Plan Development (1 unit)

Description not currently available.

EDSP 553B Induction Plan Assessment (2 units)

Assists and supports the candidate in the development of the Induction Plan to be completed within the first 120 days of employment under a Mild/Moderate or Moderate/Severe Preliminary Level I credential. The plan will be developed in collaboration with a school district support-provider. Emphasis will be placed on the candidate's design and criteria for providing evidence of successful completion of the Induction Plan. The assessment plan and procedures will be implemented in collaboration with a support provider.

EDSP 599 Classroom Project in Special Education (3 units)

Class study for the development of an action research project and presentation. Admission to master's program required. Prerequisite: EDSP 510.

Currently Accepting Applications for Summer 2012

Admission Requirements

  1. Checklist
  2. Checklist (If Level I was completed at CLU)
  3. Completed Application Form
  4. $50.00 Application Fee (please make checks payable to CLU)
  5. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  6. Personal Statement
  7. Reflective Essay
  8. Recommendation Form
  9. Verification of valid Level I Education Specialist Credential
  10. Verification of Employment as an Education Specialist form
  11. Request for Credential Course Equivalency. If you wish to have credential course work considered for equivalency, this form must be completed and approved.

Application Process

Apply Online

Interested individuals are encouraged to make an appointment to meet with a graduate admission counselor to review specific program information, admission requirements, start terms, deadline dates, and review financial aid options.

Please call (805) 493-3335 to schedule an appointment to meet with a graduate admission counselor or to request information.

Feedback Form