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Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Bridge Authorization at Cal State Fullerton | CSUF University Extension

An instructor teaching a child

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 Kindergarten 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 to be available by July 1, 2022. The new ECSE Credential includes the area of TK and Kinder as well as Orthopedic Impairments.

Upgrade your current ECSE credential by adding the Bridge Authorization.
The Bridge Authorization:

  • Authorizes current ECSE credential holder to teach birth to TK/K
  • Can be verified through the completion of coursework, professional development, or demonstrated competence and experience that addresses the added TPEs.
  • Is not necessary if you do not intend to teach TK/K.

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 422 (3 Units)- Early Childhood Special Education: Beyond Preschool

This course is for Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) teachers who hold an Educational Specialist-EC credential PRIOR to July 1, 2022. Content will focus on eight Teacher Performance Expectations (TPEs), PK/K standards, DAP curriculum, English Language Learners in TK/K, working with orthopedically handicapped, and other health-impaired young children.

COURSE PREREQUISITES/COREQUISITES

Preliminary or Clear Education Specialist in Early Childhood Special Education credential.

Program Stats:

  • 1 course
  • 3 units
  • 100% online
  • Cost: $1,098
Subject Catalog Sec Class # Start Date End Date Deadline to Drop without W Deadline to Withdraw with W and 65% refund Deadline to Withdraw with W
SPED 422 70 22414 9/12/2022 11/6/2022 9/19/2022 9/6/2022 10/26/2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, your ECSE credential is valid and authorizes you to teach children from birth through preschool.
Yes, if you obtained your Education Specialist-Early Childhood Credential PRIOR to July 1, 2022, you will need the Bridge Authorization.
No, the CSET or RICA are not required for those holding an Education Specialist-Early Childhood Credential PRIOR to July 1, 2022, and those beginning the Education Specialist-Early Childhood credential program after July 1, 2022.
The 8 TPEs identified by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing needed to upgrade the ECSE credential are located here: https://www.ctc.ca.gov/docs/default-source/commission/agendas/2020-10/2020-10-2b.pdf
I am currently finishing an Education Specialist Credential with an Authorization to teach Early Childhood at CSU Fullerton; do I need to take the Bridge Authorization class?
Yes. Only credential students completing the "new program," which began in Fall 2022, will have this content already embedded into their program plan.
Aja McKee at amckee@fullerton.edu
How do I enroll?
Apply using the online application. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be sent an email with registration information and instructions.

About the Program

Summer 2025 Program: June 2, 2025

Deadline to Apply: May 28, 2025

Fully Online

Eligibility Requirement: Must have earned ECSE Credential PRIOR to July 1, 2022

Program ApplicationProgram GuideRequired CoursesFAQ

Contact

Dr. Aja McKee
amckee@fullerton.edu
College of Education - Special Education