Preliminary Credential Program Requirements

Prior to being recommended for a preliminary credential, all candidates must meet certain California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) requirements.

• All candidates are required to complete a course in child/adolescent development as a prerequisite requirement. Accelerated student teacher and intern candidates must complete the course prior to entrance into the program. Transition student teacher candidates are required to complete the course by the end of the first semester.
• All credential candidates are required to meet the Basic Skills Requirement by the end of their first semester or prior to becoming an intern. This requirement is met by receiving passing scores on one of the following Commission-approved tests: California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), the CSET Multiple-Subject Exam with Writing, or a basic skills exam from another state.
• All candidates must show subject matter competency in the subject area for which they are seeking a credential by receiving passing scores on the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) or through the completion of a Commission-approved Subject Matter Preparation Program (secondary only). This requirement must be met by the end of the candidates’ first semester or prior to becoming an intern.
• All candidates must verify that they have met the U.S. Constitution requirement by receiving passing scores in a course (at least two semester units or three quarter units) or on an examination in the Provisions and Principles of the U.S. Constitution given by a regionally accredited college or university. This requirement must be met before a candidate can be recommended for their preliminary or intern credential.
• Multiple-Subject and Education Specialist candidates are also required by California Education Code to pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) before they are recommended for a preliminary credential.

Requirements for California teaching credentials typically undergo significant changes during the two years covered by a Catalog.  Candidates planning to work toward any credential or special program should consult with a School of Education advisor as soon as possible.