Credential Programs

In the State of California, classroom teachers are credentialed by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) upon the recommendation of colleges and universities with approved teacher education programs. At the University of San Diego, it is possible for students to graduate in four years with a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential in several areas; the preliminary Multiple Subject Credential for teaching in elementary education, the preliminary Education Specialist Teaching Credential with Mild to Moderate Content Specialization that prepares students to teach across K-12 settings and the preliminary Single Subject Credential for teaching in secondary education.

In order to pursue an academic program leading to a degree and teaching credential, students must declare their major as early as possible by filing the appropriate form. In addition, students are required to make a formal application to the Teacher Credential program in the second semester of their sophomore year, or soon after declaring their major, should that occur in the junior year. To be admitted to the Teacher Credential program, students must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), complete an application, submit a recommendation, and be interviewed by a faculty member in the Department of Learning and Teaching. A minimum 2.75 cumulative grade point average is required for admission to the Teacher Credential program and must be maintained throughout the program. A grade of B- or higher is required in all Professional Preparation courses, and a C– or better in all upper-division courses.

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) regularly revises program requirements to meet new standards. Please consult the School of Leadership and Education Sciences for the most up-to-date program information.