Admissions | Special Educator License

Admission Requirements
  • Math 211: Foundations of Elementary Math I (4 credits): The first in the elementary math sequence, this course covers numeration, operations, number theory, and problem-solving.
  • Math 212 or 213: Foundations of Elementary Math I and II (4 credits each): The second two classes in the sequence, Math 211 covers rational numbers, probability, and statistics and Math 213 covers algebra, geometry, and measurement.
  • SPED 418/518: Survey of Exceptional Learners (3 credits): This is a foundational course for understanding the various exceptionalities and how special education is provided in schools. 
Admissions Timeline
*Priority Application DeadlineJanuary 15
Final Application DeadlineApril 15
Prerequisite DeadlineBy the start of the program
Program StartSummer

*Submitting your application by the priority deadline will allow you access to the scholarship application due by February 1st.

Timeline for completion:

Prerequisite coursework must be completed no more than 7 years before an application to the program and you must have received a C- or better in the coursework. 

We recommend that students complete the courses prior to starting the program in summer term. The courses do not need to be completed to submit an application but many applicants find that these courses are helpful to understanding the field.

Where and how to take prerequisites:

These classes are offered both at PSU and at local community colleges. Please review our approved equivalent list for offerings at other local community colleges and universities. 

If you would like to take these classes at PSU and are not already a student, you can register as either a post-baccalaureate or non-degree-seeking student. 

The math classes are offered sequentially throughout the year beginning in the fall. Please review the class schedule for current offerings. 

If you feel you have completed an equivalent course that is not on the ‘prerequisite course equivalents’ list,  please submit a Course Substitution form with supporting documentation.

Required application materials

Below is the list of the materials and information you will need to provide as part of your online application. We recommend preparing these materials in advance of submitting your application.

  • Unofficial Transcripts: from your bachelor’s degree-granting institution and from any institution at which you have earned graduate-level credit
  • Official Transcripts: After you are admitted, you must submit official transcripts to the Graduate School
  • English Language Proficiency: Automatically assessed in your application materials. Learn more about your options for proving proficiency.
  • Résumé that includes advocacy, volunteer and personal experience with individuals with disabilities or working with people with disabilities
  • Personal statement
  • References: Submit contact information for at least two references via the application. Portland State University will contact your references and provide them with instructions for submitting recommendation forms.

Admissions instructions

  1. Create an account or sign into the Portland State University Admissions Application system.
  2. Select "Start New Application"
  3. Then select "Graduate Application"
  4. For the college, select "College of Education"
  5. For the program of study, select "Special Education: K-12, MS and License"
  6. Select the term you plan to start the program

To validate your admission you must take a course during the term in which you have requested to be admitted. Should you not take a course in that term, your application will be cancelled and you will need to reapply to the next cohort.

Questions? Please connect with Laura Sequeira.

Additional Licensure Requirements

Testing

  • Special Education Content Knowledge test The National Evaluation Series (NES) test for Special Education is taken during the final term of the program, and must be taken prior to recommendation for licensure. Content will be taught during the program.

Civil Rights & Ethics Course

Prior to your first field experience, you must complete TSPC’s Civil Rights & Ethics course. Follow the Civil Rights & Ethics instructions to complete TSPC’s requirement. For more information please visit our Field Placement Webpage.