Department of Special Education
The Department of Special Education (SPED) is committed to making a difference for people with disabilities and their families with diverse lived experiences by increasing their success in schools, workplaces, and community settings. We aim to develop the untapped potential of individuals with disabilities, support their talents, and make a significant positive impact on their learning and life environments, with a focus on improving outcomes through professional development and social change.
Our Programs
Announcements
2027 Admissions
2027 applications open August 1, 2026. Deadlines differ by program. Please see individual academic program information for details.
Project INCLUDE (INterdisciplinary Collaborative Learning for NeUroDiversity Affirming Special Education and Speech Service Providers) supports students in the M.A. in Special Education program (Behavior Analysis & Autism Concentration) and the M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology program. Students will receive interdisciplinary training to support young children with high-intensity support needs.
Residency grants provide opportunities to receive $35,000 while you earn your special education credential under the guidance and mentorship of a Master Teacher in the district.
Contact Us
SPED News
Photo Gallery: Experience Commencement with the Class of 2026.
See scenes of celebration from College of Education graduates at ceremonies on May 14 and 15.
Outstanding Grad Spotlight: Emily Baer
Special education grad student was among 11 members of the Class of 2026 honored for their academic excellence.
Showcase for future teachers highlights the transformative possibilities of shared governance
SDSU and Sweetwater Union High School District partner to bring 40 credential candidates to Otay Ranch High School for information, networking and mock interviews.
Diversity Statement
The Department of Special Education at San Diego State University recognizes diversity, equity and inclusion as fundamental values of all department programs and the communities we serve. Accordingly, the faculty and staff in the department are committed to community partnerships that embrace this mission, and we strive to be a catalyst for change in support of students of all abilities, races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, religions, ages, social classes, socio-economic statuses, immigration statuses, political views, and veteran statuses. We are dedicated to supporting a safe, responsive, and equitable learning environment.
Give
Our fundraising priorities focus on programs that offer growth opportunities for the department, enable donors to impact student learning in unique ways, and respond to trends influencing higher education.
All gifts can be made securely online. Give a one-time amount, set up a recurring donation, or make this a tribute gift in honor or memory of a significant someone.