Master of Arts (M.A.) in Special Education: Behavior Analysis and Autism Concentration
How to Apply
If you are applying for the Spring 2026 semester, please check back in July for updated application dates. The application opens August 1st each year for spring start. The GRE is no longer required to apply to this program.
Important Dates for Fall 2025
| Item | Deadline |
|---|---|
| 1. Cal State Apply application (opens October 1 each year) |
February 1, 2025 |
| 2. Interfolio program application | February 15, 2025 |
| 3. Official transcripts due | February 15, 2025 |
Steps 1-4: Admission to SDSU
Steps 1-4 must be completed through the SDSU Graduate Admissions Office.
Get help and tips on how to complete the Cal State Apply application.
Step 5: Admission to Program
Your program application has been created in a system called Interfolio. For help, refer to this Interfolio Tutorial (PDF).
Please gather the required program-specific documents below and have them ready to upload to the Interfolio program application.
Upload a 300- to 500-word essay describing:
- Your philosophy of education
- Your reasons for applying to this program
- Your potential for succeeding in an advanced degree program in Special Education
Upload your current resume.
This course can be completed as prerequisites or taken during the program. You will indicate in the Program application how you plan to complete this.
- SPED 553: Behavioral Strategies and Support (or equivalent)
Letters of recommendation are only required if you did not attend SDSU for your preliminary credential. If you earned your preliminary SPED credential at a school other than SDSU, then please contact 2 individuals who you have interacted with professionally and who would be able to write a letter of recommendation for you. Please have these letters uploaded to the program application.
Get in Touch
Application Process Questions
Program Questions
- [email protected]
- Ana Dueñas, graduate advisor, [email protected]
- Yasemin Turan, graduate advisor, [email protected]