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).

Academic Programs | UMass Global

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

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Teaching Credential - 2042 Single Subject

CA Only

The California 2042 Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes you to teach a specific subject, such as English or biology, in most middle and high schools. 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

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Teaching Credential - SPED (Extensive Support Needs)

CA Only

With this California Preliminary Special Education Credential, you’ll be able to make a difference in the learning and development of students who have moderate to severe disabilities. Plus, our Internship Pathway allows you to become intern eligible after just four classes!

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

48 Credits

$730/Credit

Help me estimate my cost

Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Teaching Credential - SPED (Mild to Moderate Support Needs)

CA Only

With this California Preliminary Special Education Credential, you’ll be able to make a difference for students who can function within a general classroom setting but require various accommodations for success. Plus, our Internship Pathway allows you to become intern eligible after just four classes!

Degree Earned: Credentials & Authorizations

Learning Mode: Online

Online

48 Credits

$730/Credit

Help me estimate my cost

Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Learn More

Next Start: 08/25/2025

Technical Knowledge Test II

This course provides a basic understanding of electrical and electronic fundamentals, computer hardware/software, and digital technologies as they apply to the telecommunications industry.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

3 PDUs

1200

Learn More

The Reading Teacher's Top Ten

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

3 PDUs

$450

Learn More

Transform Lessons to Online

This course teaches you how to transition your lesson plans to an online format while leveraging technology to enhance student learning, integrate the SAMR model, and create a transformative educational experience.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2 PDUs

$300

Learn More

Trauma-Informed Practices, Course

For Educators

Learn how to recognize the signs of trauma, enact interventions to repair internal harm, and create effective strategies to communicate, resolve conflicts and build relationships.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2 PDUs

400

Learn More

UI/UX Design, Bootcamp

Bootcamp

Gain the skills and hands-on experience needed to launch your UI/UX design career with our bootcamp, featuring practical projects, portfolio-building exercises, and new AI learning units—the next cohort starts soon.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

Upon completion of the bootcamp, you will earn a certificate

$11,900

Learn More

Using Culturally Diverse Texts

Develop a lens for identifying and implementing culturally diverse texts.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

1 PDU

$150

Learn More