Mild/Moderate Disabilities (K-12)
Specialist Credential Level 1, Track A

Frequently Asked Questions

How many units are in this program?
The program requires 34 post-baccalaureate units.

How many units do I take each semester?
You may take no more than eight units per nine-week term, which includes a maximum of two methods or education classes and their corequisite field experiences (if appropriate).

How long is a semester?
Each semester has two terms (Fall I and Fall II, Spring I and Spring II). Each term is nine weeks in length. The 18-week student teaching semester covers Fall I and II or Spring I and II.

How many hours does each class session require?
Each class requires that students meet for approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, once a week.

How many evenings per week do I attend classes?
Students meet one night a week for nine weeks, plus a Saturday final exam session.

Does APU require theses, dissertations, or capstone projects?
Students are required to complete a thesis/capstone project for this program.

Are scholarships available?
Several types of financial aid are available to graduates. The resources range from federal loans and state grants, to fellowships and scholarships. For those who qualify, the California Student Aid Commission administers a loan program called the Assumption Program of Loans for Education (APLE) designed to encourage outstanding students to become teachers and serve in critical teacher-shortage areas in California public elementary and secondary schools. Under the provisions of the APLE Program, the commission may assume up to $11,000 in outstanding educational loan balances. For details about APLE and all other financial aid programs, please contact the Office of Graduate Student Financial Services at (626) 815-4570. The Cal Grant T is also available.

How soon can I finish this program?
This program can be completed in a year. Depending upon the desired course load, working individuals usually finish this program in 12-18 months.

What is the cost per unit?
Most graduate programs average about $495 per unit for the 2007-08 academic year. This varies depending upon the program, and other fees also apply. A student teaching package is available. The graduate catalog lists complete information. A discounted 12-unit student teaching package is available.

Whom do I contact if I have more questions?
Many answers can be found at the mandatory information meeting scheduled at various times and locations. Please call (626) 815-5376 to sign up for a meeting. Until then, the Graduate Center, comprised of Graduate Admissions, the Graduate Registrar, and Graduate Students Services, can be a great resource.

Graduate Center Information