California Education Code requires that anyone applying for a preliminary or clear teaching credential (Multiple Subject, Single Subject, or Education Specialist) demonstrate knowledge of the provisions and principles of the U.S. Constitution.

It ensures teachers understand:

• The structure of U.S. government

• Separation of powers and checks/balances

• Rights guaranteed under the Constitution and Bill of Rights

• Federal vs. state powers

There are three main options:

College Coursework

• Completion of a college-level course covering the U.S. Constitution, U.S. government, or American government.

• The course must be two semester units or three quarter units.

• Acceptable courses are typically titled:

  • U.S. Government

  • American Government and Politics

  • Constitutional Law

• The course must appear on your official transcript.

Exam

• Passing a Commission-approved U.S. Constitution examination offered through certain California universities (often through the extension or continuing education departments).

• The exam is multiple-choice and tests knowledge of constitutional principles.

• Examples: Exams are offered at schools like CSU Dominguez Hills, UC San Diego Extension, Chapman University, etc.

Undergraduate Degree from a California State University (CSU)

If you earned a bachelor’s degree from a CSU, the requirement is automatically considered met, because CSU general education includes coursework covering the Constitution.

• U.S. Constitution Exam (University of Notre Dame) - Online

• U.S. Constitution Course and Exam (UC San Diego) - Online

• U.S. Constitution Course (University of Phoenix) - Online