In the state of California, the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) awards credentials to teachers upon the recommendation of colleges and universities with approved teacher education programs. The Liberal Studies major is USD's approved undergraduate teacher education program for elementary and special education teachers.
Application to the USD's Credential Program
If students plan to earn a teaching credential along with their BA, they are required to submit their formal application to the Undergraduate Teaching Credential Program after taking at least one of the foundational credential courses EDTE 300P and 310P. This typically occurs between sophomore and junior year, or during junior year. New transfer students should apply during their second semester at USD, unless their advisor recommends filing an application during their first semester.
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1
Prepare to apply by reading the details about the Undergraduate Teaching Credential Program on USD's School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) website.
Step 2
Request two letters of recommendation (at least one should be from a USD professor who has taught you in class). Ask the recommenders to complete the "Recommendation Form" attached to the application or write a letter giving their assessment of your academic ability and character for teaching.
Step 3
Submit the application and your letters of recommendation at the link provided.
Important Note:
Multiple Subject and/or Education Specialist Teaching Credentials: if you are interested in pursuing a teacher credential in Multiple Subjects (Elementary) and/or Education Specialist (Mild Moderate Support Needs), the Liberal Studies degree satisfies the Subject Matter Competencies. Examinations CSET and CBEST are not required if you have completed a Liberal Studies degree; the degree major meets both Basic Skills and Subject Matter for a Multiple Subject and/or Education Specialist Credential.
When all materials are received, the application will be reviewed. Following this review, you will be notified of the admissions decision and receive further information regarding your next steps.
Contact
Sergio Rodriguez
Academic Programs Manager (Dept of Learning and Teaching, SOLES)
srodriguez@sandiego.edu
(619) 260-7452