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).

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

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
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


Demo

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

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Teaching & Education

Fundamentals of Classroom Management

Focusing on the components of self-control and teaching to classroom expectations. This course uses the evidence-based Time to Teach classroom management model. This model is research-based, practical, proven, and are ready to use in the classroom. 
$400

Fundamentals of Classroom Management

Focusing on the components of self-control and teaching to classroom expectations. This course uses the evidence-based Time to Teach classroom management model. This model is research-based, practical, proven, and are ready to use in the classroom. 
Certificates & Courses
Online
UsersGroup
Extended Education
BulletedList
2 PDUs
Coins
$400
05/12/2025
male school counselor supporting  male student walking through school halls by locker
Teaching & Education

Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the foundation for resilience and persistence. Learn how to create a lesson plan that teaches the concepts and strategies for developing a growth mindset.
$400

Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the foundation for resilience and persistence. Learn how to create a lesson plan that teaches the concepts and strategies for developing a growth mindset.
Certificates & Courses
Online
UsersGroup
Extended Education
BulletedList
2 PDUs
Coins
$400
05/12/2025
05/12/2025
female teacher lecturing students about teaching curriculum in classroom
Teaching & Education

Independent Study Special Topic Exploration

Earn graduate-level professional development credit or CEUs for attending a seminar, workshop, training, online course, webinar, reading a book or other professional development experience.
$150-400

Independent Study Special Topic Exploration

Earn graduate-level professional development credit or CEUs for attending a seminar, workshop, training, online course, webinar, reading a book or other professional development experience.
Certificates & Courses
Online
UsersGroup
Extended Education
BulletedList
1-3 PDUs per course
Coins
$150-$400
05/12/2025
female student with laptop studying at home
Teaching & Education

Inform Literacy Development

This course is an overview of how to use data to inform classroom and home literacy progress.

Inform Literacy Development

This course is an overview of how to use data to inform classroom and home literacy progress.
Certificates & Courses
Online
UsersGroup
Extended Education
BulletedList
1 PDU
Coins
0
05/12/2025

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."