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May 22, 2026
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2026-2027 University Catalog
PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential
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 Return to: College of Education
(34 UNITS)
The PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential prepares educators to teach preschool through third grade. The program focuses on equity-minded, developmentally appropriate and culturally/linguistically sustaining pedagogy. Grounded in sociocultural constructivism, it equips candidates to foster inclusive learning spaces that affirm young learners’ diverse cultural, linguistic and cognitive resources. Through coursework, fieldwork and clinical practicum, candidates develop expertise in social and emotional learning, developmentally appropriate instruction, integrated English Language Development (ELD) and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). The program emphasizes inquiry-driven practice, family and community engagement, and a reflective approach to teaching. Graduates are prepared to address systemic inequities and create transformative learning environments. It authorizes teaching in self-contained, general education classrooms in preschool, transitional kindergarten and kindergarten through third grade.
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Admission Requirements
Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a graduate program. Please consult the Graduate Regulations section in this catalog for complete information. In addition, admission to the program is based on the following additional criteria: Bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited university GPA must be at least 2.5 cumulative or 2.75 in the last 60 semester units attempted. Two faculty recommendations Interview Evidence of Certificate of Clearance (COC) with their application Personal statement Official transcripts from every college and university attended (including community colleges) Pre-program field experience form showing that 45 hours of fieldwork have been completed in a PK-3 public school classroom or academic setting CPR certification that includes Child/Infant (Pediatric) and adult modules and meets the criteria of the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross (ARC). Proof of overview attendance Complete the following courses (9 units) with a “C-” (1.7) or better: CAS 325A - Conception Through Age 8 (3) CAS 350 - Curriculum and Early Learning Environments (PK-Grade 3) (3) READ 360 - Literacy Education for Social Change (3)
Program Requirements (34 units)
The PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential program is cohort-based, divided into two semesters.
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Return to: College of Education
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