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Find a Teaching JobFor Secondary (Single Subject)
Pathways to a Teaching Credential
View a chart that illustrates the different pathways to a teaching credential.To teach middle or secondary school in California, you must have the Single Subject Teaching Credential. This credential authorizes public school teaching in specific subjects in a departmentalized classroom such as those in most middle schools or high schools. Teaching in these subjects may be authorized for preschool, kindergarten, grades 1-5, and classes organized primarily for adults.
To obtain a preliminary credential which is valid only for 5 years, the following requirements must be met:
- Bachelor's Degree or higher from a regionally accredited university
- Teacher preparation program
(credential program, including student
teaching) - Meet the Basic Skills Requirement
Click here to find test preparation programs - Demonstrate subject matter competency with:
- Passage of California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET )
Find test preparation programs - Completion of approved single subject program
- Complete developing English Language skills courses
- Complete U.S.
Constitution course
- Foundational computer technology course
To obtain a Clear Credential (renewable after 5 years) you must complete one of the following options:
If you have a BA/BS degree and have met other requirements, you may be eligible
for an internship program while you complete the coursework
necessary for a credential. You might even be able to challenge the course work portion via the Early Completion Internship Option .
If you already have a teaching California credential, you may want to add another credential or authorization .
Credentialed in another state? Go to the Make and Follow Your Plan section.
