Master of Arts in Special Education

This new graduate degree includes the Clear Credential and students choose one of five Added Authorizations in either Autism, Other Health Impaired, Traumatic Brain Injury, Emotional/Behavioral Disorders, or Early Childhood Special Education Curriculum, Services and Supports. To learn more about these programs, please visit the School of Education website.

Admissions Requirements for MA Special Education

Step 1:

Please complete and submit all general graduate application materials. These materials can be found on the Application Process page, where you will also find the address to which you should send these materials.

Step 2:

Application Checklist:

1. Official Transcripts - Official transcripts showing completion of a baccalaureate and, if applicable, a higher-level degree from an institution that is accredited by a regional accrediting association with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 or higher. (Students who do not meet this standard - see "Exceptions Policy" below).
2. Two Letters of Recommendation - As stated on the Application Process page, you may download and print the School of Education Letter of Recommendation Form or you may provide two professional letters of recommendation on school or business letterhead and have them send the completed recommendation to the address found on the Application Process page. Recommendations should be signed and completed by individuals who have knowledge of your character and professional performance.
3. Basic Skills Requirement: This can be demonstrated by taking the CBEST exam OR Multiple Subject CSET plus writing skills examination OR passage of the CSU Early Assessment Program or the CSU Placement Examination OR Proof of Valid Teaching Credential
4. Writing Prompts and Interview Questions - Please email directly to gradprocessing@pointloma.edu or mail it to the Graduate Admissions office. Download these writing prompts and interview questions.

Exceptions Policy: Applicants who do not meet the above standards but can demonstrate that they have an exceptionally rich experiential background and/or have demonstrated dramatic change in academic performance, may petition the department to review their status. The School of Education will follow the exceptions policy as published in the current catalog.

Step 3:

Other Program Requirements Upon Acceptance:
(Talk with your program coordinator for specific deadlines).

Note: The following are additional requirements for candidates also pursuing a credential embedded in an M.A. or Ed.S. program:

1. CTC Certificate of Clearance or other CTC credential.
2. Evidence of prerequisite credential (excluding PPS credential program).

Please send all materials to the address found on the Application Process page.