Envision the educator you want to become.

• Is UMass Global accredited in California?
  University of Massachusetts Global's Credential and Authorization Education programs are accredited by California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). In fact, UMass Global is the second largest provider of teaching credentials in California and has been teaching teachers throughout the state for more than 60 years (previously Brandman University).

Early Childhood Education

• What does a high-quality ECE program look like?
  During the early childhood education years, the brain makes millions of synapses every second that allow us to move, think, communicate and comprehend our environments. A good early childhood education program is dynamic, challenging, enriching and carefully planned. A typical ECE curriculum might incorporate songs, books, art, games, toys, experiences and nature exploration into the daily lesson plans for a class or group. Children in ECE programs are less likely to repeat a grade, more prepared for school and more likely to earn more in the workforce. 

Special Education

• What is the difference between special education and inclusive education?

  Historically, students with disabilities were segregated from general education peers in public schools, which was the typical scenario referred to by the term “special education.” Today, many schools are restructuring to move toward an “inclusive education” model, wherein general education and special needs students learn together in the same classroom.

• What are key characteristics of a special education teacher?

  There are many characteristics that are essential for teachers who work with special needs students. Some examples include:

  • They are active listeners
  • They have strong social perception skills
  • They understand how to support different learning styles
  • They’re adept at complex problem solving
  • They are service oriented

Teaching Credentials

• Why do I need a teaching license?
  The licensure process confirms that instructors are sufficiently qualified to teach their specified subject and/or subjects. A background check and assessment is also required for the age they want to teach to ensure the safety of each student.
• What is the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?
  A Multiple Subject Teaching Credential is the primary requirement for teaching in California's elementary schools, grades K-6, but may authorize the holder to teach in higher level grades as well. It includes course work to allow teachers to support students who are learning the English language (ESL).
• What is the Single Subject Teaching Credential?
  If you have your sights set on teaching a particular subject, you should pursue the Single Subject Teaching Credential. Educators holding this credential are authorized to teach a specific subject to students ranging in age from preschool to 12th grade, and less commonly, adult students.
• What is the Education Specialist Instruction Credential?
  The Education Specialist Instruction Credential authorizes educators to teach and provide special education support for students in a particular area of focus such as autism and language development. They can also conduct educational assessments to identify how to best help students progress toward achieving their academic goals.
• Why do licensure requirements vary by state?
  Each state has it's own agency that governs its public school teachers' qualifications to ensure education standards are met. Some even have specific coursework requirements. For example, California requires coursework on the U.S. Constitution, while Alaska requires educators to take courses on it's state history. UMass Global (formerly Brandman University) is deeply rooted in teaching California teacher for over 60 years. In fact, we are the second largest provider of credentials in the state of California as of 2022.
• Do teaching credentials expire?
  Even if you stay in your home state and have no intentions of moving, most teachers still have to renew their credentials every five years. One of the main criteria for renewal is showing proof of dedication to continuing education, whether through in-service training sessions or formal academic study.