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).

San Diego County Office of Education

The education you seek made more affordable.

Finding the time and money to go back to school while still working is a challenge. But thanks to your employer partnering with UMass Global, you can get the degree or certificate you seek, upgrading your skills and improving your career outlook. And you can do so at significant savings. Plus, our online coursework fits into the busiest of lives!

Your Discounts at a Glance

Because your employer is a Premier Partner with UMass Global, these are the scholarships available to employees and their spouses and dependents:

20% Scholarship

Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration
Organizational Custom Off-site Cohorts (as approved by University)

15% Scholarship

Master of Arts in Teaching
Teaching Credentials (Single Subject, Multiple Subject, and Special Education)
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

10% Scholarship

Associate degrees
Bachelor's degrees
Master's degree programs and graduate certificates (except as specifically noted)
Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership
UMass Global MyPath programs

How will a degree help me?

Check out some fast facts on why going back to school is a good option.

50%

Bachelor's degree holders are half as likely to be unemployed as their peers who only have a high school diploma

1.2M

Bachelor's degree holders make $1.2 million in additional earnings on average over their lifetime as their peers who only have a high school diploma.

60%

of workers will require training before 2027.

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

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

Not all doctoral programs are alike. I loved the cohort model becuase I not only earned my doctorate I also gained lifelong friends and a network of professionals I can rely on. The Ed.D. program taught me to be confident and thoughtful in my leadership decisions.

Linda C.

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

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

Ways to Get Started

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Speak with an Enrollment Coach — Call 800.746.0082 or fill out a request for information form.
Complete your application, it’s free and easy! — Click here to apply!
Receive your acceptance letter — Congratulations 🎉 !
Complete the scholarship verification form — Click here to fill out the form and submit your verification.
Get financially cleared — Make an appointment with our helpful OneStop Specialists.
Enroll in classes — Work with an assigned Academic Advisor to come up with a schedule that works for you.

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Programs Offered

Multiple Subject, Teaching Credential

Multiple Subject, Teaching Credential

Organizational Leadership, BA

Organizational Leadership, BA

Organizational Leadership, BBA

Organizational Leadership, BBA

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

Organizational Leadership, Ed.D.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

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