Earn a Career as an Inclusive Special Education Teacher
Our Preliminary Education Specialist Mild to Moderate Support Needs (MMSN) Credential program prepares graduates to work with students with mild to moderate disabilities in inclusive classrooms. Upon completion, graduates will know how to conduct educational assessments and provide instruction and support services to students in TK–12 grades and classes offered primarily for adults through age 22 with:
autism
emotional disability
intellectual disability
multiple disabilities
orthopedic impairment
other health impairment
specific learning disability
traumatic brain injury
Program Pathways
Following a cohort model course sequence, students can choose to pursue the following pathways:
Single or Dual Credential: You can earn one credential or both a general education credential (multiple or single subject) and an education specialist credential (MMSN). Through student teaching in both general and special education settings, students gain hands-on experience and develop the skills to teach in diverse classrooms. Earning dual credentials enhances employability, as graduates are qualified to teach in both general and special education classrooms.
Add a Master's degree to your credential(s): For an additional 9 units, you can add a Master's degree to extend your learning and earning potential.
33 units
Education Specialist (Mild to Moderate)
36 Units
Dual Credentials
Single or Multiple Subject(s) and Special Education (Mild to Moderate)
42 Units
Education Specialist Credential and Master’s Degree
45 Units
Dual Credentials
Single or Multiple Subjects Credential and Education Specialist Credential and Master’s Degree
Who is the Education Specialist MMSN Credential for?
Our Education Specialist teaching credential is ideal for…
Aspiring Special Education Teachers
General Education Teachers
Career Changers
Paraprofessionals & Instructional Aides
School & Community Professionals
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon earning their credential, program graduates will be prepared to make a difference in the lives of special education students by:
Exploring strategies for creating inclusive, welcoming environments that support diverse learners and students with varying needs, abilities and backgrounds through tailored instructional approaches
Reflecting critically on how personal perspectives and potential biases influence expectations and relationships with learners and their families
Applying learning, instruction and motivation theories to support learners' cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, physical and moral development through inclusive and developmentally appropriate learning experiences
Integrating technology and diverse perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity and collaborative problem-solving on real-world local and global issues
Integrating assessment and technology into planning and instruction to gather feedback that enhances student learning, classroom management and teaching methods
Conducting and applying research to teaching practices, student learning and education policies to explore new ideas that enhance the field
Careers in Special Education
Candidates who earn an Education Specialist teaching credential are prepared for a variety of roles within the California education system. Some of the positions that graduates pursue include:
Special education teachers support students with diverse learning needs by creating individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to their abilities and goals. To better ensure students achieve academic, social and developmental success, they also adapt teaching methods, provide targeted interventions and collaborate with families and specialists.
Average Salary: $61,098
Special education administrators oversee programs and services for students with disabilities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices. They collaborate with teachers, families and support staff to develop and implement effective educational plans that meet diverse student needs.
Average Salary: $87,941
Instructional coordinators who specialize in special education develop and support curriculum, teaching strategies and professional development to meet the needs of students with disabilities. They also work directly with teachers, administrators and aides to ensure compliance with special education policies and the implementation of effective instructional practices.
Average Salary: $67,760
Financing Your Education
At University of San Diego, all students have a right to an education, regardless of income. The majority of students receive some form of financial assistance through scholarships, grants, loans and employment.
The tuition rate is for the 2026–2027 academic year. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
33 - 45
Units
$933
Tuition per unit
$30,789 -$41,985
Estimated total tuition
Dependent on pathway
Financial Aid
In addition to external funding resources, students at SOLES may be eligible for various forms of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, fellowships and discounts.
Our Alumni
After earning their credentials, program graduates go on to a range of fulfilling careers in special education.
OUR ALUMNI WORK OR HAVE WORKED FOR:
Take the Next Step
Ready to Get Started?
Your future as a Changemaker starts here. Learn more about SOLES or start your application today.