As a top provider of teaching credentials in California, UMass Global's CTC-accredited programs prepare you for leading your classroom and community.
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).
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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?
Testimonials
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
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.
Become the Teacher Who Inspired You
Have questions about enrollment, degree programs or financial aid? A UMass Global enrollment coach can help.
Programs Offered
Teaching & Education
Language Development to Support Literacy
Learn the importance of vocabulary word recognition, automaticity, oral fluency, and exposure to volumes of varied genres in order to improve language acquisition and reading comprehension.
$150
Language Development to Support Literacy
Learn the importance of vocabulary word recognition, automaticity, oral fluency, and exposure to volumes of varied genres in order to improve language acquisition and reading comprehension.
Certificates & Courses
Online
Extended Education
1 PDU
$150
Teaching & Education
Leading with Emotional Intelligence
This course will provide insights and tools for increasing your leadership influence and effectiveness at all levels of the organization.
$150
Leading with Emotional Intelligence
This course will provide insights and tools for increasing your leadership influence and effectiveness at all levels of the organization.
Certificates & Courses
Online
Extended Education
1 PDU
$150
Teaching & Education
Learning Circles
Designed for groups of three or more individuals who would like to get together to discuss a quality book, with the purpose of improving professional practice.
$270 per course
Learning Circles
Designed for groups of three or more individuals who would like to get together to discuss a quality book, with the purpose of improving professional practice.
Certificates & Courses
Online
Extended Education
3 PDUs per course
$270 per course
Teaching & Education
Learning Styles in the Classroom
This course helps you understand and analyze the different learning styles. You will create lesson plans that address the different styles of learning.
$90 per credit
Learning Styles in the Classroom
This course helps you understand and analyze the different learning styles. You will create lesson plans that address the different styles of learning.
Certificates & Courses
Online
Extended Education
1 – 3 PDUs
$90 per credit
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."