About the Department
Azusa Pacific University offers programs approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) which authorize service for elementary, secondary, and special education classrooms. Additionally, all of the programs offered in the Department of Special Education are accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). As one of the largest credential-granting private institutions in California, APU produces credentialed teachers who are professionally prepared to provide quality educational programs that effectively meet the needs of students in public and private schools, and who are heavily recruited by school districts throughout California and other states.
The primary goal of the Department of Special Education is to provide the training and experience needed to qualify for California’s special education teaching credentials. Azusa Pacific University’s Special Education Program is committed to preparing special education teachers and working professionals:
- who are competent – able to effectively educate and lead in the cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic diversity of today’s educational environment
- who are compassionate – committed to the care and enhancement of the individuals they teach and lead
- who are people of character – able to contribute to the moral and ethical development of the students and families whom they serve
Classes are small, and the credential programs are conveniently offered at various locations throughout Southern California. Check with the Department of Special Education for the locations where specific credential programs are offered. Programs must maintain minimal attendance to operate.
APU graduates have been successful in obtaining jobs in public, Christian, and other private schools. Studies indicate that employment opportunities in teaching will continue to increase for both elementary and secondary special education teachers.
Credential courses are combined with selected courses required for a Master of Arts in Education so that an emphasis in special education may be obtained. Students will meet with the director of special education for advising in the Master of Arts in Education: Special Education. Master’s degree coursework is usually taken following completion of credential programs.
All credential students must have access to technology. In addition, they must participate in an assessment system specified upon admission (e.g., TPAs, ePortfolio, or TaskStream).
All credential standards and requirements for special education are subject to CCTC, NCATE, and federal policy changes, as well as graduate education policy, and supercede catalog descriptions of prior programs and requirements.
The department reserves the right to change the admission process and requirements.
Please refer to published general application requirements for credential programs.
