Advanced Education DepartmentSchool of Social Sciences & Education

What is the Special Education Level II Program?

The Level II Special Education Program at CSU Bakersfield has been approved by the California Council on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).

It is a Professional Clear Credential program in the areas of Mild/Moderate and Moderate/Severe Disabilities. Candidates continue their credentialing program by taking Level II coursework following completion of the Preliminary Level I Program.

How is the Level II Program designed?

The majority of the Level II courses are designed as field-based seminars that meet 5 times during the quarter. Course assignments provide opportunities for candidates to apply theoretical knowledge to practical classroom situations through case studies designing Behavior Intervention Plans, defining Transition Plans, developing an in-service module, and conducting action research. The demonstration of course competencies takes place in the candidate’s own classroom much of the time.

Who can apply to the Level II Program?

Those who have completed the Level I (Preliminary Credential Program) may apply to the Level II program. Candidates must complete an admission application to the Level II Credential Program during the last quarter of coursework of their Level I Credential Program or one quarter prior to the beginning of the Level II Program.

What are the admission requirements?

Which courses are required?

Phase 1: Establishing Direction

Phase 2: Gaining Focus

Phase 3: Assuming Leadership

Required:

What are the additional requirements by CCTC to clear the credential?

What is the Level II Induction Plan?

The Induction Plan is a document which includes the candidate’s goals and objective for their clear credential program study.

How is the Level II Induction Plan developed?

The induction plan is developed in collaboration with the candidate, district support provider, and the university advisor in the first Level II course (EDSP 650: Application of Theory Into Practice Induction Seminar) and monitored throughout the Level II Program. The induction plan considers the candidate’s needs, interests, goals, and specialization areas. These goals identified in the Induction Plan may include both university (courses) and non-university experiences. Non-university activities (i.e., in-service workshops and professional conference attendance) approved by the district and the university may earn credit through EDSP 660: Professional Development in Specialized Areas as part of the Level II unit requirements.

What is the timeline for completing the Level II Program?

The Level II Program may be completed in 1 to 2 years. Candidates can then apply for, and earn, the Clear Credential in a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 5 years after completing the Level I Preliminary Credential. You must have 2 years of teaching experience in a special education classroom setting while holding a Preliminary Credential in order to apply for your Level II Clear Credential.