Education

Return to: Curricula by Department

OFFICE: Lamden Hall
TELEPHONE: 619-594-6091 / FAX: 619-594-7082

Accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Faculty:

Faculty assigned to teach in education are drawn from departments in the College of Education.

Graduate Information

General Information

The College of Education offers graduate study in the following areas: counseling, dual language and English learner education, elementary curriculum and instruction, postsecondary educational leadership and instruction, reading education, secondary curriculum and instruction, PreK-12 educational leadership, special education, and teaching. Some of these concentrations are designed to permit concurrent completion of the requirements for the correspondingly named advanced credentials.

Graduate study is also offered leading to the Master of Science degree in child development, Master of Science degree in counseling, the Master of Science degree in rehabilitation counseling, and the Educational Specialist degree in school psychology.

The College of Education offers advanced graduate study leading to doctoral degrees in education: the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). The Ed.D. in educational leadership is offered independently with concentrations in PreK-12 school leadership and community college/postsecondary leadership. Authorized by Senate Bill 724 passed in 2005, the Ed.D. was designed as a professional degree for aspiring school and community college educational administrators to develop advanced knowledge and skills by conducting research on significant problems of practice that have regional and national implications. PreK-12 and community college practitioners team with College of Education faculty in all aspects of the program.

Our graduate teaching associateships program can prepare students for a teaching career.

The Ph.D. degrees are offered jointly with collaborating universities that emphasize theory and research underlying educational practice as preparation for positions in higher education, school, and other public and private organizations. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in education with an emphasis on democratic schooling and social justice is offered jointly with Claremont Graduate University. Inquiries should be addressed to SDSU/CGU Ph.D. program office at 619-594-6544.

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in mathematics and science education is offered jointly with the University of California, San Diego. For specific information about this program, refer to the Mathematics and Science Education section of this bulletin.

Admission to Doctoral Study

Students applying for admission should electronically submit the university application available at http://www.calstate.edu/apply along with the application fee.

All applicants must submit admissions materials separately to SDSU Graduate Admissions and to the College of Education (refer to the appropriate degree section for the address to submit additional information).

Graduate Admissions

The following materials should be submitted as a complete package directly to:

Graduate Admissions
Enrollment Services
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-7416

1. Official transcripts (in sealed envelopes) from all postsecondary institutions attended;

• Students who attended SDSU need only submit transcripts for work completed since last attendance.
• Students with international coursework must submit both the official transcript and proof of degree. If documents are in a language other than English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

2. English language score, if medium of instruction was in a language other than English (http://www.ets.org SDSU institution code 4682).

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Degree in Education

All applicants must have completed a master’s degree program prior to admission and reside in San Diego County or commit to relocating to San Diego County if admitted to the program.

The following materials should be submitted via our online supplemental program application by March 1 for the fall semester.

1. Online supplemental program application;
2. Three academic and/or professional letters of recommendation, including one academic reference, using the form in the online application;
3. A two to three page personal statement indicating reasons for pursuing doctoral study. The statement should include your reasons for seeking admission to this particular doctoral program, your perceived strengths and weakness in preparation for doctoral study, your research interests, and your relevant academic and employment experiences. Indicate why you believe the SDSU/CGU program is appropriate for you. Include the faculty at SDSU and CGU (two at each university) with whom you would like to work based on your thorough knowledge of their work. The personal statement should be double-spaced and typed;
4. A current curriculum vitae or resume listing work experiences, education, awards, publications, and presentations;
5. Unofficial or official transcripts from each university or college attended, including verification of completion of a master’s degree in education or a related field. If degree requirements have not yet been met, submit a transcript listing all work completed to date;

The following materials should also be submitted directly to:

Office of Admissions
SDSU/CGU Doctoral Program in Education
Claremont Graduate University
170 E. Tenth St.
Claremont, CA 91711-6163

1. Official transcripts (in sealed envelopes) from all postsecondary institutions attended;
   • Students with international coursework must submit both the official transcript and proof of degree. If documents are in a language other than English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

2. English language score. All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants (regardless of citizenship status) applying to SDSU from an international institution where the medium of instruction was not English, must submit one of the following as proof of English proficiency:

   • TOEFL minimum score of 80 iBT/ 550 PBT: Score can be sent electronically from Educational Testing Service (ETS) using theSDSU institution code: 4682. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • IELTS overall score of 6.5 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher: Score can be sent electronically from Duolingo, to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • PTE minimum score of 58 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Official transcripts have been received indicating English as the principal language of instruction

For information regarding the admissions process, visit the department website at http://go.sdsu.edu/education.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Degree in Educational Leadership

The following admissions materials must be submitted electronically:

1. Program application;
2. Three letters of recommendation;
3. Curriculum vitae or resume;
4. Statement of purpose;
5. Examples of professional and/or academic writing;
6. Employer statement of nomination or support.

For information regarding the admissions process, visit the department websites at http://go.sdsu.edu/education/cclead or http://go.sdsu.edu/education/edl.

Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in School Psychology

The following materials should be mailed or delivered to:

Department of Counseling and School Psychology
Attention: School Psychology Program Director
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-1179

1. Curriculum vitae or resume;
2. Personal statements and essays (see website for essay questions);
3. At least three letters of recommendation;
4. Supplemental material to enhance evaluation of your academic, professional, interpersonal, and cross-cultural readiness (e.g., course papers or projects, an evaluation from work, a brief videotape of you working with children);
5. Students must obtain the California certificate of clearance prior to beginning the field experience sequence in the fall semester of their first year;
6. The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is required by the State of California prior to consideration for the award of a credential and must be passed by the third year of the program. The program does not require passing the CBEST for admission;
7. Transcripts of all collegiate work:
   1. Undergraduate major or substantial coursework in behavioral sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology, social work), education (or liberal studies), child development, and/or ethnic studies. The following courses are especially recommended: general psychology, developmental psychology, research and statistics in behavioral sciences, learning or cognition, social psychology or sociology, multicultural or culture-focused studies, and psychological or educational testing and measurement.
   2. A minimum 2.85 grade point average (when A equals 4) in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units or in the major. Applicants whose grade point averages fall below the university standard of 2.85 must supply additional data to support consideration for admissions.

Master’s Degree Programs

Admission to Graduate Study

Students applying for admission should electronically submit the university application available at http://www.calstate.edu/apply along with the application fee.

All applicants must submit admissions materials separately to SDSU Graduate Admissions and to the College of Education (refer to the appropriate degree section for the address to submit additional information).

Graduate Admissions

The following materials should be submitted as a complete package directly to:

Graduate Admissions
Enrollment Services
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA 92182-7416

1. Official transcripts (in sealed envelopes) from all postsecondary institutions attended;
   • Students who attended SDSU need only submit transcripts for work completed since last attendance.
   • Students with international coursework must submit both the official transcript and proof of degree. If documents are in a language other than English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

2. English language score. All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants (regardless of citizenship status) applying to SDSU from an international institution where the medium of instruction was not English, must submit one of the following as proof of English proficiency:

   • TOEFL minimum score of 80 iBT/ 550 PBT: Score can be sent electronically from Educational Testing Service (ETS) using theSDSU institution code: 4682. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • IELTS overall score of 6.5 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher: Score can be sent electronically from Duolingo, to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • PTE minimum score of 58 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Official transcripts have been received indicating English as the principal language of instruction.

Program Admissions

All programs in the College of Education require the submission of a second application, the supplementary program application. The application is online at http://go.sdsu.edu/education/applynow.aspx. All letters of recommendation, personal statements, and other required documents are submitted through the online application. Refer to the specific program requirements to be submitted and department contact information for each program.

Teaching and Service Credentials

Admission to Graduate Study

Students applying for admission should electronically submit the university application available at http://www.calstate.edu/apply along with the application fee.

All applicants must submit admissions materials separately to SDSU Graduate Admissions and to the College of Education (refer to the appropriate degree section for the address to submit additional information).

1. Official transcripts (in official sealed envelopes if hard copy or sent electronically directly from the institution) from all postsecondary institutions attended.

NOTE:

• Students who attended SDSU need only submit transcripts for work completed since last attendance.

• Students with international coursework must submit both the official transcript and proof of degree. If documents are in a language other than English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

2. All graduate and post-baccalaureate applicants (regardless of citizenship status) applying to SDSU from an international institution where the medium of instruction was not English, must submit one of the following as proof of English proficiency:

   • TOEFL minimum score of 80 iBT/ 550 PBT: Score can be sent electronically from Educational Testing Service (ETS) using the SDSU institution code: 4682. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • IELTS overall score of 6.5 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher: Score can be sent electronically from Duolingo, to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • PTE minimum score of 58 or higher: Score report must be submitted directly to the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office. Test score must be from within the past two years.

   • Official transcripts have been received indicating English as the principal language of instruction.

Program Admissions

Most programs in the College of Education require the submission of a second program application. All letters of recommendation, personal statements, and other required documents are submitted through the online program application. Refer to the specific program requirements to be submitted and department contact information for each program.

Imperial Valley

Faculty:

Emeritus: Garrison, Livingston, Medeiros, Merino, Neumann, Ponce
Professor:
Assistant Professors: 
Lecturer: Lewis

General Information

Accredited by the California Commission.

The Credentials

Current growth in student enrollment and the need to replace teachers who retire combine to forecast a significant increase in new teacher hiring during the next decade. Students in California’s public schools reflect a wide variety of ethnic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds. Teacher education faculty at SDSU Imperial Valley are committed to preparing teachers to ensure the academic success of all students. Candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Multiple Subject (SB 2042) Credential qualifies graduates to teach in self-contained classrooms and provide Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE), and English Language Development (ELD), kindergarten through twelfth grade.

A variety of program options, including full-time, part-time, and accelerated models are available to credential candidates. Daytime commitments are required for student teaching placements. Examinations and/or coursework prerequisite to program admission, if not completed within the undergraduate degree program, may extend the total time commitment for credential issuance.

The Single Subject (SB 2042) Credential qualifies graduates to teach in a single subject area in grades K-12 and provide Specially Designed Academic Instruction in English (SDAIE) and English Language Development (ELD). Most candidates prepare to teach in grades 7-12 (usually junior or senior high school) or in a middle school setting (usually grades 6-8). Students in the program follow a sequence of courses which normally takes two semesters to complete. The program requires a daytime commitment. Examinations and/or coursework prerequisite to program admission, if not completed within the undergraduate degree program, may extend the total time commitment for credential issuance by one or more semesters.

Information Applicable to Both Multiple Subject and Single Subject Credentials

Departmental admission to either the Multiple Subject or Single Subject (SB 2042) credential program does not constitute admission to the university. Candidates who are entering the university for the first time, or who have graduated or who are graduating, and are planning to re-enroll for the credential program must file a separate application for admission to the university during the regular university application period.

Advanced Standing in Teacher Education

A student transferring into SDSU Imperial Valley to complete requirements for a Multiple Subject or Single Subject credential must complete a minimum of six units of professional education coursework in residence at SDSU Imperial Valley in order to be recommended for certification regardless of the extent of education work completed at other institutions.

Evaluation of Credits

After an interval of five years, courses in education are reevaluated and subject to reduction in credit, in light of new requirements and changes in educational procedures. All courses taken either at this university or elsewhere must be approved by a designated faculty member in order to be credited toward meeting credential requirements or pattern requirements for a degree.

GPA Requirements For Continuation in Multiple Subject/Single Subject Credential Programs

A grade point average of 3.0 or better must be maintained each semester to permit a student to continue in the Multiple Subject and Single Subject credential programs.

Supplementary Authorizations

With completion of additional units in certain curriculum areas, both Single and Multiple Subject teachers can be granted supplementary authorizations to teach in generalized areas in middle and junior high schools (e.g., Introductory English). Single subject teaching credential candidates can also be granted supplementary authorizations to teach in specialized areas K12 (e.g., psychology). Information on requirements for these supplementary authorizations is available through the Division of Education.

Admission Standards and Qualifications for the Division of Education Credential Programs

Candidates must satisfy the standards and qualifications listed below and submit complete application packets to the Division of Education. There are three points of screening and an ongoing monitoring of progress in the teacher education program. These are:

1. Admission to the teacher education program.
2. Monitoring of student progress in the teacher education program.
3. Admission to student teaching.
   Generally, students will apply and be admitted to the teacher education program prior to beginning the coursework of the basic credential program. These include the early field experience of 60 hours.

Application Process for the Division of Education Credential Programs

1. Obtain and submit a completed application along with required materials.
2. Letters of Recommendation. Candidates must submit two letters of recommendation. One letter must be from a faculty member in the candidate’s major, and one from an individual who knows the candidate well (but is not related by blood or marriage) and who can comment directly on factors such as the candidate’s qualifications for a teaching career in a multicultural setting, work or educational experiences, experience teaching or supervising students or other groups of individuals, personal character, and/or potential for success as a teacher.
   
   The signed letters may be hand carried and do not need to be confidential or in sealed envelopes, but must be on letterhead stationery (name, address, telephone number of sender included). If the letters are not on letterhead, the name, address, and telephone number of the sender must be typed on the letter.
3. Professional Goals Essay. This essay should address the following items:
   1. The candidate’s interest in and motivation for a teaching career in a multicultural setting;
   2. The candidate’s personal background and experience working with children in multicultural settings;
   3. Other experiences personally considered important in the teacher preparation process;
   4. Any abilities, knowledge, skills, or experiences that will enhance the candidate’s effectiveness as a teacher (e.g., ability to speak another language, play a musical instrument, use technologies, or experience working with individuals with disabilities or special needs).
      
      Further information on the professional goals essay is available in the Division of Education.
4. Analytical Essay. On demand essay regarding some aspect of the field of education with the purpose of assessing candidates’ writing and critical thinking skills.
5. Oral Interview. An oral interview with a panel of Division of Education faculty with the purpose of assessing candidates’ proficiency in communication skills, and disposition related to diversity and the overall skills of the teaching and learning process.
6. Appeals Process. Candidates who do not meet all the admission requirements may petition the Admissions and Retention Committee for individual consideration; petition forms must be submitted concurrently with the application packets.
7. Grade Point Average. Candidates must have attained a grade point average of at least 2.67 in all baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate coursework or 2.75 or better in the last 60 semester units attempted. Candidates are required to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended and unofficial transcripts for SDSU coursework for GPA calculations.

Required Clearances

1. California Certificate of Clearance. This certificate represents a background clearance and check conducted by the State Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Application is available in the Teacher Education office and must be submitted PRIOR to conducting Early Field Experience and/or enrollment in TE 303  and prior to all other courses requiring field experiences. Legal documentation which meets all current California state law, school district requirements, and university policy on fingerprint clearance must be submitted PRIOR to placement in Early Field Experience and/or participating in TE 303 . In the event that the State Department of Justice and/or the Federal Bureau of Investigation notifies the university of a “HOLD” on any pending application, the student will NOT be able to continue in any Early Field Experience placement and/ or TE 303  course activities. Turnaround time for the clearance is usually about four to six weeks, unless additional information is requested by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). Possessors of K-12 California credentials, emergency permits, or substitute permits may satisfy this requirement by submitting copies of those certificates. Candidates must submit the application directly to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing through the on-line application process. The CTC website, http://ctc.ca.gov, is the official record of any clearance, credential, or permit issued.
2. TB Clearance. Evidence of a negative tuberculosis test (these tests are valid for four years and must be in effect during the time that candidates are enrolled in the credential program). Clearance statements may be secured from StudentHealth Services, private physicians or HMOs, or public health agencies.

Prerequisites for Multiple and Single Credential Program

1. Education 451. Introduction to Multicultural Education This course provides an introduction to ethnicity, language, and culture in education, particularly the ways in which those factors differentially affect educational outcomes for children. The course assists in preparing teacher applicants to work with students from diverse backgrounds by examining both societal and personal belief systems and the ways that those beliefs are expressed in public school classrooms.
2. Early Field Experience. All candidates are required to participate in an early field experience in the public schools prior to admission to the program. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), the Committee on Accreditation (COA) standards, CSU Executive Order 547, and Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations require a set of directed experiences designed to help students learn about the functions and activities of California schools, agencies, programs, and institutions. Candidates must complete TE 303 . The clinical field experience will acquaint students with effective practices in teaching diversely populated enrollments, classroom management and discipline, teaching styles and models, assessments, and learning and behavioral patterns as they relate to teacher performance expectations. Clinical observation and practica address field experiences required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and university teacher education program requirements. Early field experience is a 45 hour field placement at an elementary or secondary credential emphasis site assigned by the early field experience faculty designee and approved by the site administrator. Each intern student will complete an early field experience comparability program, approved by his or her school administrator as a normal part of his or her school responsibilities. All students and interns who participate in early field experience must be enrolled at the university during the timeframe of their placement. All students and interns are advised that school districts reserve the option to require professional liability insurance as a prerequisite to placement in their schools.

NOTE: Appointments for discussion of individual concerns relative to the credential program may be made with the program adviser for the Division of Education. Call 760-768-5512 for an appointment.

Programs

• Cultural Proficiency Minor
• Education, Dual Language and English Learner Education Concentration, Critical Literacy and Social Justice Specialization, M.A.
• Education, Ph.D

Return to: Curricula by Department