Early Childhood
Special Education (ECSE) Bridge Authorization

Complete Your Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Bridge Authorization at Cal State Fullerton.

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) has updated the ECSE Education Specialist Credential to authorize candidates starting an ECSE credential program after July 1, 2022, to teach TK and Kinder in addition to birth to preschool. CTC recommends that current ECSE credential holders who wish to upgrade to the new authorization begin the process of meeting the new Teaching Performance Expectations (TPE) areas so candidates can upgrade as soon as the option is available. CTC anticipates this option being available by July 1, 2022. The new ECSE Credential includes the area of TK and Kinder as well as Orthopedic Impairments.

If you earned your Education Specialist–Early Childhood Credential prior to July 1, 2022, and want to work in a TK or Kinder Special Education classroom, you will need the Bridge Authorization. Cal State Fullerton is offering this course online, so there is no better way to complete it than with us.

CSUF ECSE Bridge Course:

SPED 496 (3 Units)- Senior Educational Practicum

ECSE Bridge Authorization is a course designed for ECSE teachers we earned their credential prior to July 1, 2022. The course addresses the eight Teacher Performance Expectations (TPEs) that differ between the two credentials. The course will focus on PK/K standards, developmentally appropriate curriculum, DLL Kindergartners, working with orthopedically handicapped young children and children with other health impairments.

Non-California Residents

Due to state and federal regulations, non-California residents may only enroll in CSUF online courses when their state has authorized CSUF as a provider. Click here for more information.