Credential Programs

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There are three types of teaching credential programs offered at CSUMB:

  • Single subject (Middle and Secondary Education; Grades 6-12)
  • Multiple subject (Elementary Education; Grades K-8)
  • Special Education (Grades K-12)

College of Education: https://csumb.edu/education

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Multiple Subject

Elementary Education

K-8

Co-teaching Pathway (1 year)

Credential + Masters Pathway (2 years)

Internship Pathway (2 years)

Link to Elementary Education Pathway

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Single Subject

Secondary Education

Middle School/ High School

Co-teaching Pathway (1 year)

Credential + Masters Pathway (2 years)

Internship Pathway (2 years)

Link to Secondary Education Pathway

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Special Education

SPED

Mild/ Moderate or Moderate/ Severe

Co-teaching Pathway (2 years)

Internship Pathway (2 years)


Link to Special Education Pathway

Credential + Masters Option

The Master of Arts in Education pathway is an add-on to the Multiple Subject and Single Subject pathways. This pathway is a 2-year long program that allows students to earn a Masters degree while completing their credential. Currently there is no Masters + SPED option.

Link to Master of Arts in Education Pathway

Top Priorities:

1. Choose a teaching pathway

2. GPA requirements for co-teaching & internship pathway is 2.67 or higher. For combined credential + masters GPA must be 3.0 or higher)

3. Schedule dates for your CBEST & CSET exams*

4. Schedule Fingerprinting Live Scan (can be done at CSUMB's Campus Police)

5. Apply for CTC Clearance

6. US Constitution Competency

7. 40-50 hours working with youth

8. CPR Certification

CBEST AND CSET

The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) assesses candidates' general math, writing, and reading comprehension skills. It is one way candidates can meet the basic skills requirement for teacher certification. While the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) is a criterion-referenced test designed to measure a specific set of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities reflecting the subject area of the credential sought. Preparation for these exams is necessary, and scheduling for exam dates can be challenging, refer to our CSET/CBEST page for more information.

Bonus: If you are a math or science student interested in teaching, MSTI will pay for your CBEST and CSET exam.*

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Fingerprinting/ Live Scan

Before applying for CTC Clearance you need to be fingerprinted via Live Scan.

  • You can schedule a Live Scan in various locations, or at CSUMB's campus police where you'll receive a discounted rolling fee.
  • Once you schedule a Live Scan, print out one Form 41-LS.
  • The Live Scan rolling fee is typically $25-$30, but at the campus police, students pay $15
  • The FBI and DOJ review usually incurs additional fees, so expect to pay around $64-$80 (INCLUDING ROLLING FEE)
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CTC Clearance


You will need the CTC Clearance to enable you to be able to teach in California.

  • Once you complete your LiveScan, you may apply for CTC Clearance on this link.
  • You will need to create an account.
  • If you have a criminal record greater than a traffic violation, it could take up to two months to be cleared.
  • Generally, it takes up to 10 days to be cleared.
  • A $52.50 fee is charged when you apply ($50.00 application fee plus a $2.50 credit card use charge)
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US Competency

  • If you've earned a bachelors degree from a CSU then you have already fulfilled this requirement.
  • For UC students and others, you will need to either take a political science course at an accredited community college or university OR the US Constitutional Exam

A link to the US Constitutional Exam: HERE

A link for a good study resource: HERE

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Working With Youth

  • 40-50 hours working with youth, ideally in the classroom setting.
  • Can be acheived during Service Learning classes from CSUMB.
  • There are various youth centers in our county that are in need of mentors for students.
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CPR Certification

  • You can be CPR Certified by the American Heart Association or the Red Cross.
  • Must be for adults, children, and infants.
  • CSUMB will pay for CPR training through the American Red Cross, but you must register for the class. Use this link for more information. NOTE: Only 16 spots open for each class.
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TB Test Results or Chest X-ray

  • TB shots are offered for free in the student health center at CSUMB if you are enrolled in a Service Learning course.
  • Valid for 3 years.