Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take equivalent courses to SDSU-IV's pre-requisite courses at another university or community college?
There are courses available at community colleges and other colleges and universities that could be accepted to meet SDSU-IV requirements. When you meet with the credential analyst for advising, she will review all your transcripts for U.S. Constitution, approved health, and foreign language. If, during that advising appointment, you feel you have coursework that meet's another program course requirement, you may petition for coursework subsitiution. We rarely find subsitutions for our field experience courses, TE 303, so you should expect to take those here at SDSU-IV.

Are there exams I must take before applying for the credential program?
You need to take the following exams before applying and pass these exams before clinical practice:

• Basic Skills Requirement- Basic Skills competency as demostrated through passing scores of the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) with writing component or other CTC approved Basil Skills Examinations. See the Credential Analyst, for further information on ways to meet basic skills or visit the following link. 
  
• Subject Matter Competency - Single Subject credential program students must obtain certification to teach departmentally in a subject area.
  
• All other program candidates must pass the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET): Multiple Subjects prior to admission to the program.  Please note:  Conditional admission will be considered on a limited basis, however, state program standards prohibit Advanced Clinical Practice (student teaching) until CSET: Multiple Subjects is passed.

How can I meet the Basic Skills Requirement? Please contact your Credential Analyst fore more information.

What is the required grade point average for admission to the Teacher Education program?
A student must have a grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 in the last 60 semester units or a cumulative grade point average of 2.67 to be accepted into credential programs. If you do not have the required 2.67 GPA, you will be notified and you will need to complete the GPA Petition form.  Exceptions are made on a case by case basis.

When and how do I apply for a Certificate of Clearance?
Prospective students should apply as soon as possible, unless you already hold a valid Emergency Permit or basic teaching credential. To find out how to apply, review the Certificate of Clearance form.  NOTE: You will not be placed in a clinical practice experience until you have verification of fingerprint clearance.

How and when do I know what my schedule is going to be?
The Division of Education admits candidates using the cohort model. When you are admitted to a credential program, you are assigned to a cohort and you take all your course work with that cohort. To view courses and cohort groups please visit study plans and courses under Current Students.

Can I work during the credential program?
It is highly suggested that work hours be limited during full-time credential programs.The programs are very demanding of your time and your professional career is dependent on your success. Please check with Financial Aid for scholarship opportunities and loan eligibility information. If you are working full-time, there are two courses for which you will need to make accommodation.  TE 303 (offered separate semesters) require day time hours. All other courses are offered late afternoon and evenings.  Please keep in mind, however, clinical practice (student teaching) must be completed during the day.

I am uncertain if I am filling out the Cal State Apply application correctly?
Filling out the Cal Sate Apply application may be a bit tricky. It is important to remember that the Cal State Apply application is different for Special Education (SPED) and Multiple or Single Subject prospective students.  Please refer to our attachments below as a guide to help you.