Education: A bachelor’s degree or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
Subject Matter Competence*: This requirement can be met one of the following ways and may differ depending on the teaching setting – multiple subject setting (i.e., elementary school) or single subject setting (i.e., junior high or high school):
- Complete a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a discipline aligned with the credential. For Education Specialist, degree major will be dependent on interest in teaching in a multiple subject or single subject setting.
- Pass the appropriate California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) to establish subject matter competency. Those interested in teaching in a multiple subject setting must pass the CSET: Multiple Subjects, while those interested in teaching in a single subject setting must pass the appropriate CSET to establish subject matter competency. The cost of the CSET varies by examination. For more information, visit www.ctcexams.nesinc.com.
- Complete the appropriate undergraduate subject matter preparation program (SMPP) and obtain verification of completion form. Those interested in teaching in a multiple subject setting should complete an SMPP focusing on Elementary Subject Matter, while those interested in teaching in a single subject setting should complete an SMPP focusing on the appropriate single subject area. For more information and to search for a Commission-Approved Subject Matter Preparation Program, visit www.ctc.ca.gov.
- Complete college-level coursework aligned with each domain of the subject matter requirements.
- Combining coursework and exams including SMPP, CSET, and/or college-level coursework methods.
Provisions and Principles of the U.S. Constitution: Complete a U.S. Constitution course (PS 1 at Irvine Valley College) with a “C” or better or by equivalent exam.
Teacher Preparation Program: Complete an Education Specialist Instruction Credential program, approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), in an education specialist specialty area. Upon completion, obtain a formal recommendation for the credential by the program sponsor. For more information and to search for a Commission-Approved Educator Preparation Program, visit www.ctc.ca.gov.
Character and Identification Clearance: Submit the appropriate paperwork along with fingerprints to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
NOTE: As of June 2024, the Basic Skills Requirement for the Multiple Subject Credential will be met by completion of a bachelor’s degree.