Program Director: Sarah Johnson, Ed.D.
Overview
The Special Education Credential programs prepare candidates for a preliminary teaching credential and provides foundational courses for a Master of Arts Degree in Special Education (SPED MA). Only Fresno Pacific credential program completers are eligible to continue in the capstone courses of the SPED MA to complete their degree. SPED MA students must be employed as a credentialed special education teacher and return to the capstone courses within five years of credential program completion.
After completing the requirements for a preliminary credential, candidates have the option to extend and deepen their understanding of effective teaching strategies, curriculum analysis, and other special education topics within the Master of Arts Degree in Special Education program. This program is comprised of all credential program coursework units and 12 units of post-credential coursework within five years of credential program completion. Courses must be completed in the prescribed sequence and academic terms as outlined.
Candidates will be challenged to reflect on their role as a teacher and their commitment to teaching as a vocation. Candidates will develop a deeper understanding of teacher inquiry and gain a teacher-research identity, which will be applied by completing a classroom action research project and report.
Admissions Process and Requirements
Admission to the Fresno Pacific University Master of Arts in Special Education program is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements and work experience, by the admission committee.
Application Process
To be considered for admission to the MA in Special Education program, please submit the following items:
- Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
- Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor's degree.
- Earned all As and Bs in credential coursework.
- If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
- A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
- Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:
Fresno Pacific University
Office of the Registrar
1717 S. Chestnut Ave
Fresno, CA 93702
- Completed Employment Verification Form.
- Earned FPU Education Specialist Credential within the previous five academic years. The M.A. in Special Education program is only available to FPU credential graduates.
- Valid CA teaching credential (for credential program only).
Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committee.
Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.
View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.
Locations Offered
Online
