Single Subject Program

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Persons interested in teaching in the traditional secondary school will typically pursue the Single Subject Credential, which authorizes teaching service in departmentalized, subject matter classrooms in preschools, grades K-12, and in classes organized primarily for adults (classes where instruction is provided in only one subject). Candidates may be recommended for Preliminary Single Subject teaching credentials when they have satisfied the requirements listed below. Applicants whose academic programs allow them to meet these requirements concurrently with their baccalaureate degrees will be eligible for preliminary certification. The preliminary credentials have the same teaching authorizations as the clear credentials and are valid for five-year periods.  Normally five-year preliminary credentials may not be extended without completion of the additional requirements within the original five years of issuance.  However, if you have not obtained employment during the five year period of the preliminary credential, you have options to extend the preliminary to 1) allow you to seek employment, or 2) allow you to complete the Induction Program to clear your credential once employment has been obtained.  If you work in a school that does not have an approved Induction Program, you have the option to complete an approved Clear Credential Program.

Upon completion of this program, you can apply for the credential if you meet all of the following requirements:

1. A baccalaureate or higher degree.
2. Completion of an approved program of professional education, including student teaching with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and coursework in reading methods.
3. Basic skills competency as demonstrated through passing scores on the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) with writing component, or other approved BSR requirement.
4. Demonstrated subject matter competency through completion of an approved waiver program in one of the California Single Subject areas, through a combination of coursework and competency examinations, or through California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) examinations.
5. Demonstrated knowledge of the principles and provisions of the United States Constitution through successful completion of a three-unit collegiate-level course or examination.
6. Knowledge of health education in California, including substance abuse and nutrition, and verification of CPR competency.
7. Demonstrated knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Act. Needs of and methods of providing educational opportunities to individuals with exceptional needs (mainstreaming): SPED 500.
8. Demonstrated knowledge of computer hardware, software, and applications to educational/classroom use (computer literacy): SPED 560.