Do I have to be licensed to teach in California public schools?

Yes. Elementary and secondary public school teachers must be certified by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing to qualify to be employed in a California public school. UMass Global teacher credential programs are all accredited by the CTC.

How long does it take to earn a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in California?

How quickly a person can earn their 2042 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential depends, of course, on how many courses are taken at a time. Most students can count on earning their credential in 12-14 months, but it can be earned more quickly. At UMass Global, it is possible for students to earn their credential in 10 months. A total of 33 credits are required — 24 credits (8 courses) of introductory block and content area block courses, along with two 4.5 credit internship or student teaching sections.

Is it better to have a Multiple Subject or Single Subject Teaching Credential?

"Better" is a relative term, depending on your teaching goals and personal interests. With a Single Subject Credential, you’ll teach that subject to different classes throughout the day in middle or high school. You can delve more deeply into the subject and ignite interest in it in your students. Elementary school teachers work through a variety of subjects with their class that stays with them through the entire school day. The Multiple Subject Credential validates teaching the various subjects covered in elementary school, preparing you to provide a wide-ranging educational menu every day. Unless you have no interest in teaching younger students, a Multiple Subject Credential could provide a more varied daily classroom experience than a Single Subject Credential.

What are the requirements to earn a 2042 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in California and to then start teaching?

Earning a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in California requires fulfilling several important criteria to ensure you’re well-prepared to teach in an elementary school. Here's a summary of the key requirements: 1. Bachelor's Degree: You start with a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution. At UMass Global, we offer the perfect degree for future elementary school teachers — a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, Multiple Subject Teaching. 2. Teacher Preparation Program: Next, is the completion of a Commission-approved 2042 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program. At UMass Global, students can complete their credential in 10 months. 3. Basic Skills: The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or an equivalent exam will ensure your proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics. 4. Subject Matter Competency: Next, students need to demonstrate their proficiency in the multiple areas of subject matter covered in elementary school. This can come from your bachelor’s degree or a subject matter prep program, or by obtaining a passing score on the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). 5. Understanding the U.S. Constitution: You must prove a certain level of knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, which can be fulfilled through coursework or passing an examination. 6. Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA): This assessment ensures you are equipped to teach reading to your students. 7. Child Development and Learning of English Learners: This includes the principles of child development as well as the methods of delivering comprehensive instruction to English learners. This is covered in the UMass Global Multiple Subject Teaching Credential coursework. 8. Fingerprinting and Background Check: You will need to undergo a criminal background check through fingerprinting, processed by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). 9. Health Clearance: A negative tuberculosis test, conducted within 60 days prior to application, is required. 10. Application and Fees: Submission of the necessary application forms and fees to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Credentials & Authorizations

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Start Making A Difference…Sooner

With credentials and authorizations from UMass Global, you can launch your education career in as little as one year.* Our comprehensive programs are approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and meet all state requirements for becoming a teacher in California. The curriculum blends online coursework with in-person, supervised fieldwork, equipping you with the subject matter knowledge, developmental insights, and practical skills to succeed in the classroom. Plus, our statewide network helps connect you to valuable fieldwork and internship opportunities.

*Based on an average full-time class load.

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Programs Offered

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CA Only

Leadership

Administrative Services Credential - Preliminary

This credential program is designed for individuals seeking a career in school administration and educational leadership.

Next Start Date:

Aug 25, 2025

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Administrative Services Credential - Preliminary

CA Only

This credential program is designed for individuals seeking a career in school administration and educational leadership.

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

27 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 04/28/2025

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Next Start: 04/28/2025

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Teaching & Education

California Teachers of English Learners Authorization

Expand your ability to impact students with limited English proficiency in this CTC-approved program. Upon completion, you will be authorized to provide instruction to English learners (EL) in a California classroom.

Next Start Date:

Jun 23, 2025

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California Teachers of English Learners Authorization

Expand your ability to impact students with limited English proficiency in this CTC-approved program. Upon completion, you will be authorized to provide instruction to English learners (EL) in a California classroom.

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

3 credits per course

$600 per course

Next Start Date

Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Next Start: 04/28/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 04/28/2025

CA only

UMassG Students Only

Psychology & Counseling

PPS Credential in School Counseling

Work with California students in grades K-12 in public school settings, community college/university counselor or private/corporate career counselor. This CTC accredited PPSC credential program is designed for students with a master’s degree in a counseling-related field interested in a school counseling credential. Apply Today!

Next Start Date:

Aug 25, 2025

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PPS Credential in School Counseling

CA only

UMassG Students Only

Work with California students in grades K-12 in public school settings, community college/university counselor or private/corporate career counselor. This CTC accredited PPSC credential program is designed for students with a master’s degree in a counseling-related field interested in a school counseling credential. Apply Today!

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

18 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 04/28/2025

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Next Start: 04/28/2025

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CA Only

Teaching & Education

Teaching Credential - 2042 Multiple Subject

The California 2042 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential authorizes you to teach the variety of subjects that fuel learning in an elementary school classroom. Plus, our Internship Pathway Campaign allows you to become intern eligible after just four classes!

Next Start Date:

Jun 23, 2025

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Teaching Credential - 2042 Multiple Subject

CA Only

The California 2042 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential authorizes you to teach the variety of subjects that fuel learning in an elementary school classroom. Plus, our Internship Pathway Campaign allows you to become intern eligible after just four classes!

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

33 Credits

$730/Credit

Help me estimate my cost

Next Start Date

Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Next Start: 04/28/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 04/28/2025

Ways to Get Started

The MAELA program was beyond invaluable. So much of what I was asked to do was relatable to my job. The people affiliated with the program know what works in education.

Meg V.

Educational Leadership & Administration, MA

My academic advisor was a great support system. He was my advisor throughout my program and he took the time to learn about me personally so we could make the best schedule to accommodate my life.

Steve L.

Education, Teaching and Learning, MAE

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