To earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential in California, there are several key requirements candidates must fulfill. These requirements are designed to ensure teachers are well-prepared to provide high-quality education to students in their specialized subject area. Here are the main requirements:
1. Bachelor's Degree — Candidates must have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university. If you want your degree to satisfy the single subject you choose for your credential, it will have to align with one of the CTC-approved subjects. Otherwise, additional coursework could be necessary to attain proficiency in that subject.
2. Completion of a Teacher Preparation Program — Aspiring teachers must complete a CTC-approved single subject teacher preparation program, including an internship (where you are the teacher of record in the classroom) or student teaching.
3. Demonstrate Subject Matter Competency — Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the subject they plan to teach. This can be achieved either by completing a CTC-approved subject matter program or by passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) in the relevant subject area.
4. Pass the Basic Skills Requirement — Candidates must demonstrate basic skills proficiency by passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or an equivalent exam.
5. U.S. Constitution Requirement — Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. Constitution by completing a college-level course or passing an examination.
6. Develop English Language Skills — Teachers must complete comprehensive reading instruction that includes the study of reading comprehension, literature, and other content area texts.
7. Clearance of Background Check — Candidates must undergo fingerprinting and receive clearance from the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
8. Health Clearance — Candidates must provide proof of a negative tuberculosis test within the past 60 days.
9. Application and Fees — Submit the appropriate application and fees to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).