Tuition and Funding

Learn about Tuition and Funding for programs of study in the Department of Special Education.

How much does it cost to go to SDSU? The answer to that question depends on your choice in scheduling. At SDSU you pay a flat fee for your first 6 credit hours. Any coursework on top of that, no matter how much, incurs a second flat fee. (For example, taking 9 credit hours of class costs the same as 15 credit hours.) In general, the second flat fee is cheaper by the credit hour, so it makes financial sense — if you can manage it — to register full time.

Visit Tuition and Other Fees at Student Account Services for current tuition information. When considering costs, you should also take into account textbooks for each class, which routinely cost more than $100 each. Factor in parking fees, as well.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Need help paying? Consult College of Education Financial Aid and Scholarships for general information and links. A list of available grants and loans can be found there, and their staff will help you though the process. 

Special Education Scholarships

There are a few scholarships that focus on teacher education students in the area of special education:

Full Ride Scholarship for Aspiring Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Candidates!

San Diego State University offers two pathways to your dream career with full financial support. Earn your bachelor's degree and preliminary teaching credential in just four years through the Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP), or complete a one-year post-bachelor credential program. Project Perspectives supports you every step of the way.

 

Learn more about Project Perspectives and join the next generation of exceptional educators! 

Golden State Teacher Grant (GSTG)

The GSTG Program awards up to $20,000 for students who are currently enrolled in an approved
professional preparation program to earn a preliminary teaching credential (any subject area).
GSTG recipients must complete their program and obtain their credential within 6 years of the
first distribution of GSTG funds. GSTG recipients must also work at an eligible priority school
or California preschool program for 4 years within 8 years of their program completion date.

To apply for the GSTG, visit https://gstg.csac.ca.gov/

Please note, a FAFSA/CADAA is also required for all GSTG applicants.

Applications for the 2023-24 academic year opened on September 1, 2022. We will continue to
accept applications through April 1, 2024.

For additional GSTG Program information, please visit this website.

Judy and Russ James Scholarship

All Credential Areas: Up to $2000 available annually to a full-time student who has completed 1 semester of special education courses or a full-time teacher who is a part-time student in the special education credential program. Because of the James' longstanding association with the Santee schools, preference may be given to a student with a connection in that area. Applications are typically due in early spring and awarded for that semester. Faculty announce availability in class.

Ben Ziri Scholarship

Extensive Support Needs & Early Childhood Special Education: The Ben Ziri Caravan #128 of the Order of the Alhambra has created a memorial scholarship fund to support students working towards their special education credential with a focus on teaching students with moderate to severe disabilities. Funds are received by the Department of Special Education in memory of one or more of the members of this Catholic organization. Recipients typically receive $500 to defray educational expenses. Notifications of applications are posted on the bulletin board outside the department office (North Education 70) and are announced in classes.

Petersen Foundation Scholarship

All areas: Offered annually. Applications due in fall.

For More Information

See Research and Projects to learn more about funding.