City University of Seattle offers an Endorsement in Special Education for certified teachers who want to work with special needs students in grades P-12. Upon completion of CityU’s special education endorsement you’ll need to pass the Washington Educator Skills Test (WEST-E®) to become highly qualified in Washington state.
Continue teaching while working toward your endorsement.
The program is structured to help working educators advance their credentials while continuing their careers.
Learning Outcomes
Throughout the program, you’ll build knowledge and practical skills in:
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
- Assessment and evaluation
- Behavior analysis and intervention
- Special education law
- Human growth and development
- Inclusive education practices
- Teacher and community collaboration
- Literacy and mathematics support
Total Courses Required (27 Credits)
For full course descriptions please refer to the current catalog.
Required Courses
- ESP 370A Content: Exceptionality in Special Education (4)
- ESP 419 Behavior Analysis and Management II (1)
- ESP 422 Behavior Analysis and Intervention (3)
- EML 481* Standards of Math Practice (3)
- ERL 405* Introduction to Literacy Support (4)
- ESP 436 Assessment & Evaluation in Special Education (4)
- ESP 437 Individual Education Plans (IEPs) (4)
- ESP 438 Transition Plans (3)
- EDU 337 Practicum** (1)
Internship: Taken after all coursework is passed **must be taken regardless of background
Expand your Impact as an Educator
Special education expertise can strengthen your ability to support students with diverse learning needs, collaborate with families and other educators, develop and implement IEPs, and create more inclusive learning environments.
Networking Opportunities
At CityU, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network by connecting with faculty working in your field and the education community. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive community that’s dedicated to helping you reach your career goals.
Tuition Cost
Learn more about tuition and fees for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
2026-27 Cost of Attendance (per quarter)
|
Living with Parent |
Not Living with Parent |
| Tuition & Fees |
See Tuition Calculator |
See Tuition Calculator |
| Supplies** |
$176 |
$176 |
| Housing |
$1,278 |
$4,216 |
| Food |
$1,870 |
$1,870 |
| Transportation |
$860 |
$932 |
| Misc./Personal |
$656 |
$656 |
| Total |
$4,840 |
$7,850 |
**Supplies include books, course materials, course supplies, and equipment.
Student budget values are established using student surveys, CPI index, and actual institutional expenses. Books, Course Materials, Supplies, & Equipment component will be prorated based on enrollment intensity. Students in a high-cost region may appeal and request a 10% increase to their housing and food budget component. Students living in a rural area may appeal and request a 10% increase to their transportation budget component.
Financial Aid Opportunities
This program is not eligible for federal financial aid. At CityU, we are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals no matter their economic situations. Our financial aid counselors are here to find the resources you need to pay for your education, including grants, loans, work study, and scholarships. Learn more about financial aid opportunities at CityU, or contact our Financial Aid Team at 800.426.5596, 206.239.4540, or [email protected].
Military Tuition Benefits
As a Yellow Ribbon school, CityU is proud to serve those who have served in the military. We offer military tuition discounts for active-duty servicemembers and their spouses and accept military benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance. Learn more about military tuition benefits, VA benefits, and military partnership programs designed to help you reach your military and career goals.