Prepare to Teach Science

While fulfilling the credential requirements, prospective high school science teachers will need to demonstrate knowledge of the what (the content) and the how (the methods) of teaching in this subject area. Read about the elementary teaching requirements if you wish to teach science along with other subjects.

Demonstrate knowledge of what to teach, otherwise known as subject-matter competency, in one of two ways:

• Complete an approved subject matter program and obtain verification of completion from the university.
• OR
• Achieve a passing score on the required California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) for the desired credential.
  • CSET: Foundational-Level General Science (single test)

    For those who intend to teach general, introductory, and integrated science (integrated science through Grade 8 only).

  • CSET: Science (two part test)

    For those preparing to teach all science courses.

Demonstrate knowledge of how to teach by the completing requirements from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC), the state agency that grants credentials:

• Choose which preliminary science credential to pursue based on the subjects and grade levels authorized:
  • Foundational-Level General Science Credential holders may teach only general, introductory, and integrated science courses (integrated science through Grade 8 only).
  • OR
  • Single Subject Science Credential holders may teach all science courses at all grade levels.

If you still have questions about your options for teaching science in the public schools, our Types of Teaching page provides information and videos on the three types of California teaching credentials.