Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Credential

Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) teachers play a vital role in supporting the growth and development of young children with disabilities from birth through kindergarten. This engaging and impactful credential program prepares candidates to work closely with families, caregivers, and specialists to deliver individualized support in a variety of settings, including homes, preschools, and early learning classrooms. With a focus on academic readiness, social-emotional development, and foundational life skills, ECSE educators help set the stage for lifelong learning and success.

The ECSE credential program is offered in a flexible hybrid format, with most coursework completed online and select sessions held in person. Candidates also gain hands-on experience through in-person clinical practice in local early childhood programs throughout the greater Orange County area. This well-rounded training model ensures graduates are equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to make a meaningful difference during the most critical years of a child's development.

The ECSE credential program is offered as full-time or part-time, pending enrollment and majority preference during the application process.

For admission requirements, please review the ECSE Preliminary Credential Application Checklist.

Check out Project Camino, a grant that offers ECSE students tuition funding and more. 

Questions? Contact Admissions and Academic Advisor, Sabrina Holguin [email protected]

NOTICE TO STUDENTS re: PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION

California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student to meet California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students enrolled in a California State University program who are planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Interns are also required to take the Intern Support Seminar, SPED 490, every semester they are an intern.