Become the Teacher Who Inspired You

Each of us had at least one teacher who truly inspired us. Today, there’s a need to find the next generation of great teachers. How about you? If you’re thinking about a career in education, you’ve come to the right place.

For over 65 years, UMass Global has been a leader in California education. Our combination of degrees and credentials, featuring online coursework and in-classroom fieldwork, allows you to keep working while working toward becoming that next great teacher.


WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC).

Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

University of Massachusetts Global is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Teaching Requirements

Understanding Teaching Qualifications

Teaching qualifications can seem confusing, especially when they vary from state to state. Learn about the various credentials, licensure, certificates and more. Plus get in-depth answers to the following common questions:

  • What are the various educational pathways for teachers?
  • What is alternative career teacher certification?
  • Do you need specific credentials to teach certain subjects?
  • Why pursue teaching certificates and authorizations?


READ MORE

Testimonials

lindsay g

The flexibility of online classes made the process so much smoother, allowing me to complete my coursework on my own schedule while still being present for my family... I never felt like I was going through the process alone - they truly wanted to see me succeed.

Lindsay G.
MA in Teaching, Elementary Education
Andrea Quiroa

UMass Global online programs are flexible and reliable, allowing you to pursue your dreams and work in the field. All the professors are supportive and respectful, and my credential supervisors' support and feedback have given me the motivation to continue on my path.

Andrea Q.
Teaching, MA with Multiple Subject Credential
wendy m

UMass Global gave me the flexibility and support I needed to continue my education... UMass Global has equipped us with the tools, the knowledge, and the resilience to succeed. This degree is not just a piece of paper; it is proof of our strength, our hard work, and the future we have built for ourselves.

Wendy M.
MA in Teaching

I am proud to say that once I took the first step of calling UMass Global, I was supported by all the staff from the very beginning, and throughout my entire college career. I am thankful to UMass Global for giving me the support, tools, and opportunity to complete my dreams of being an educator.

Elaine S.
Teaching, MA with Multiple Subject Credential
Teacher, Bellflower Unified School District

The professors I've had the pleasure to work with are very knowledgeable in their field and provide excellent resources to the course.

Gabriela G.
Early Childhood Special Education MAT and Credential Program
Acton Agua Dulce Unified School District
justine c

At UMass Global, we received much more than a degree. We were given a safe space to explore who we are as professionals and be challenged to redefine what we thought we already knew... Our professors pushed us to think past our brain's furthest capacity, directing us through assignments, like our action research proposal.

Justine C.
MA in Teaching, Secondary Education
cindy m

UMass Global provided the flexibility, the support, and the resources to make success possible on my terms... UMass Global wasn't just a university; it was a bridge between where I was and where I wanted to be.

Cindy M.
MA in Teaching
Annie Mae Bohnsack

If I were to give any advice it is this...the teaching credential program can be challenging, but you are not alone in it. You have classmates and professors that want to support you and help you reach your educational goals.

Annie Mae B.
Teaching, MA with Single Subject Physical Education Credential

I felt very comfortable completing my program and never doubted I could because of the supportiveness of the school, teachers, and staff.

Amber W.
Liberal Studies in Multiple Subject Teaching, BA
Ruby G

My coursework in the Early Childhood Education program provided me with vast knowledge, such as intentionally including children with different abilities, supporting dual language learners, using data to make informed decisions for best practices, and much more. The more knowledge I gained from my courses, my professors, my classmates, and my experiences, the more I began to see myself as a knowledgeable, competent professional who has much to contribute to the ever-evolving field of early childhood education.

Ruby G.
Education, Leadership in Early Childhood Education, MA
PBIS Support Specialist, Stanislaus County Office of Education

I did this for my son and the mothers of children with special needs. Someone who could truly understand them needed to sit on the other end at those IEP meetings; UMass Global made it possible.

Andrea M.
Education, Leadership in Early Childhood Education, MAE
Amy J.

I took the Autism classes [through Extended Education] and found the passion of special education, which I really never thought of as an option. I finished the Autism program and enrolled in the Master of Special Education. I have learned to reflect on my teaching and determine if I am reaching all students and on how to better reach any struggling students.

Amy J.
Special Education, MA
North Orange County ROP, Career Technical Education Teacher in the Education Pathway
Anna H Testimonial for Brandman

I now have the skill set to go forth and be the leader to really help my community and make it better.

Anna M.
Education, Educational Administration, MAE
Leonard testimonial image for Brandman

Compared to a brick and mortar, the professors are more open and I was able to learn better from them. The online community is what kept me going. I think this is the first time in my life that I can say I am proud of myself.

Leonard W.
Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis, MA

More than understanding technology and design strategies, teaching the 21st-century learner is about reframing the very notion of instruction, moving away from replicating static knowledge to a vibrant, dynamic, continuously unfolding journey that serves the ever-changing needs of today’s students.

Dr. Kimberly Greene
Professor, Chair MAE
patrick h

UMass Global has not just provided us with an education, it has provided us with a foundation for growth... Every late-night discussion board, every shared frustration, every encouraging message from a professor or a classmate. Those moments built something bigger than just a degree. They built a network of strength.

Patrick H.
MA in Education, Teaching and Learning

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
dani k

My experiences as a student at UMass Global have provided me valuable knowledge and skills that I can apply to my work supporting individuals with autism. My academic journey at UMass Global has enabled me to stay current with the latest evidence-based practices, ensuring that I can provide the most effective support.

Dani K.
MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
shyann h

The programs at UMass Global have reinforced my commitment to working in the autism community by equipping me with research-based strategies and practical skills that I can apply directly in my work. This education has not only expanded my knowledge but has also strengthened my confidence in advocating for and implementing best practices in the field.

Shyann H.
MA in Special Education, Autism
lena h

My experience with autism has greatly influenced my academic journey by allowing me to connect real-life experiences with what I learn in my coursework. I can relate to case studies and classroom discussions, which helps me analyze different perspectives and collaborate with classmates to find effective solutions.

Lena H.
MA in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

The 4 classes in the CTEL program were so much more than a stepping stone to earn my CLAD. The classes have made me a better, more inclusive teacher and I firmly believe every teacher can benefit his/her students positively once taking these classes and incorporating the ideas into their classrooms.

Student
CTEL Authorization / CLAD Certification

The CTEL program has helped me to develop lesson plans using SIOP strategies that significantly change the academic outcomes of my students. I have learned multiple ways to build connections with my students as well as create a culturally responsive community in my classroom. Professors at the university are always positive in response to my assignments and provide constructive responses that helped me grow as a student.

Student
CTEL Authorization / CLAD Certification

During my time in the CTEL program, I was exposed to interesting and useful subject matter content. The knowledgeable professors and campus staff were always friendly and willing to go the extra mile to ensure my academic success. Being the military for over 30 years I've attended many different colleges and universities over the years but this university stands out above the rest.

Student
CTEL Authorization / CLAD Certification
Infographic showing teaching credential pathways in California.

Your roadmap to becoming a teacher in California

So when it comes to gearing up for a robust education career in the state of California, where should you start? UMass Global is here to help!

We designed this helpful infographic to assist you in navigating your path to becoming a teacher in California. Once you identify your desired destination, use this tool to plot your next steps.

VIEW INFOGRAPHIC


Infographic showing teaching credential pathways in California.

Become the Teacher Who Inspired You

Have questions about enrollment, degree programs or financial aid? A UMass Global enrollment coach can help.

Degree Type
Ways to Learn

Programs Offered

CA Only
Teaching & Education

Added Authorization - Autism Spectrum Disorder

This state-approved, autism specialist certificate is a four-course, 12-unit program providing either a CTC-designated authorization to serve learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders or a Certificate of Completion.
Aug 25, 2025

Added Authorization - Autism Spectrum Disorder

CA Only
This state-approved, autism specialist certificate is a four-course, 12-unit program providing either a CTC-designated authorization to serve learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders or a Certificate of Completion.
Credentials & Authorizations
Online
UsersGroup
Online
BulletedList
3 credits per course
Coins
$600 per course
Calendar
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)
08/25/2025
CA Only
Teaching & Education

Added Authorization - Multiple Subject Credential

This authorization program, comprised of just four courses, is designed for teachers who already hold a Single Subject Credential in California and want to teach in both multiple subject and single subject environments. 
Aug 25, 2025

Added Authorization - Multiple Subject Credential

CA Only
This authorization program, comprised of just four courses, is designed for teachers who already hold a Single Subject Credential in California and want to teach in both multiple subject and single subject environments. 
Credentials & Authorizations
Online
UsersGroup
Online
Coins
6 Credits
Calendar
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)
08/25/2025
CA Only
Teaching & Education

Added Authorization - Single Subject Credential

For California teachers who have a single subject teaching credential but want to expand their subject expertise and career options, this added authorization involves just a single class and is accredited by the CTC.
Aug 25, 2025

Added Authorization - Single Subject Credential

CA Only
For California teachers who have a single subject teaching credential but want to expand their subject expertise and career options, this added authorization involves just a single class and is accredited by the CTC.
Credentials & Authorizations
Online
UsersGroup
Online
Coins
3 Credits
Calendar
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)
08/25/2025
CA Only
Teaching & Education

Administrative Services Credential - Clear

If you strive to become an educational leader in California, the Clear Administrative Services Credential is a must. This two-year credential program will prepare you for high-level K-12 administrative roles.
Aug 25, 2025

Administrative Services Credential - Clear

CA Only
If you strive to become an educational leader in California, the Clear Administrative Services Credential is a must. This two-year credential program will prepare you for high-level K-12 administrative roles.
Credentials & Authorizations
Online
UsersGroup
Online
BulletedList
6 academic credits total
Coins
$7,800/full program
Calendar
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)
08/25/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

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. See possible subject areas.

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). Get more info.

The Education Specialist Instruction Credential authorizes educators to teach and support students with identified disabilities 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. See more specialties.

Even if a teacher meets a different state’s requirements, they will still need to apply for a new license to teach there. See the specific guidelines and dig deeper into earning your credential with our resource, "The California educator's guide to choosing the right teaching credential."