California Preliminary Teacher Credential
Multiple Subject: The Multiple Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach all subjects in a self-contained classroom, such as the classrooms in most elementary schools, in grades preschool, K–12, or in classes organized primarily for adults.
Single Subject: The Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject(s) named on the credential in departmentalized classes, such as those in most middle schools and high schools, in grades preschool, K–12, or in classes organized primarily for adults.
Attend an Info Session
Students who are considering this credential can attend informational group advising sessions offered by the Office for Student Success (OSS). Sessions will include general information regarding the requirements for applying to our preliminary credential programs in a presentation format. You can also watch a pre-recorded Virtual Info Session which includes general info regarding application requirements for our credential programs.
What Makes SDSU Unique?
Annually, US News and World Report ranks the education programs at San Diego State University among the best in California and the very best of the 23 California State University campuses. Here are six reasons why:
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➊ Strong partnerships with local public schoolsSan Diego State University has long been the primary provider of new teachers to San Diego area school districts. We work closely with these districts to "grow" excellent new teachers for the region. Our public school partners understand and embrace the challenge of developing the next generation of teachers. |
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➋ Our famous “Cohort Model”Each cohort is guided closely by one or two faculty members ("team leaders"). The cohort and the team leaders provide a natural system of social and emotional support for each student. Cohort members share what they learn with one another, creating an additional layer of learning opportunities and professional growth. Learn more about our various cohorts and team leaders. |
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➌ Crucial multicultural teaching focusOur teacher education reflects the dynamic San Diego region where people of many cultures, nationalities, and languages share communities and schools. Students learn how to appreciate cultural diversity while supporting student academic learning. Courses and field experiences in the public schools focus on the strengths and attributes of diverse communities, families, and individuals. |
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➍ Powerful research-practice connectionOur teacher education program brings together best practices from the public schools with the most important knowledge developed by educational researchers and theorists. Our students learn from both researchers and practitioners, from our internationally-renowned education faculty and the top teachers in local schools. |
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➎ Two-semester and three-semester program optionsYou can complete the credential program in either two semesters or three semesters. The three semester option is designed to serve students who need to work part-time or have substantial family obligations. |
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➏ Affordable tuitionThe tuition for California residents is much lower than the price tag for private universities.For current information visit SDSU Tuition and Fees. |
Multiple Subject Preliminary Teaching Credential Program
Prerequisite Courses
Students must complete prerequisite courses before starting the Multiple Subject Preliminary Credential Program. These courses can be taken as part of your undergraduate program or during the summer.
| Course # | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ED 451 | Introduction to Multicultural Education | 3 |
| TE 280 | Health Education for Teachers | 1 |
| MATH 210 | Structure and Concepts of Elementary Mathematics | 3 |
| SPED 450 | Classroom Adaptations for Special Populations | 2 |
| Total | 9 |
Student Teaching & Required Courses
Each student completes student teaching in two different grade levels; one assignment is at the primary level (in grades K-3) and another is at the intermediate level (in grades 4-6). All students enrolled in the traditional Multiple Subject Teacher Preparation Program will take 48 units of required courses. The schedule and sequence of the courses vary with individual cohort offerings.
To view all course requirements visit University Catalog: Elementary Education, Multiple Subject (SB 2042) Credential.
Multiple Subject Cohorts
- 3 Semester MS
- Cajon Valley Cohort (Hybrid Model)
- Chula Vista Partnership
- TLC (La Mesa/Spring Valley Partnership)
- San Diego Unified Partnership
Learn more about our various multiple subject cohorts each with a unique focus or emphasis.
Single Subject Preliminary Teaching Credential Program
Acceptable Single Subject Credential Areas and Applicable Majors
- Art
- English Language Arts: Comparative Literature, English
- Mathematics
- Music Education
- Physical Education
- Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physical Science
- Social Science
- Theater
Prerequisite Courses
Students must complete prerequisite courses before starting the Single Subject Preliminary Credential Program. These courses can be taken as part of your undergraduate program or during the summer.
| Course # | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ED 451 | Introduction to Multicultural Education | 3 |
| TE 280 | Health Education for Teachers | 1 |
| SPED 450 | Classroom Adaptations for Special Populations | 2 |
| Total | 6 |
Student Teaching & Required Courses
Our programs combine coursework and student teaching to link theory and practice. The curriculum emphasizes the preparation of reflective practitioners to meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse children. Each student typically completes student teaching in two different grade levels; one assignment is at the middle school level (in grades 6-8) and another is at the high school level (in grades 9-12). All students enrolled in the traditional Single Subject Teacher Preparation Program will take 39-40 units of required courses. The schedule and sequence of the courses vary with individual cohort offerings.
To view all course requirements visit University Catalog: Secondary Education, Single Subject (SB 2042) Credential.
Single Subject Cohorts
- 21st Century Blended Online
- 3 Semester SS
- Generation Global (Sweetwater Partnership)
- Project Based Career Prep
- Math and Science
Learn more about our various single subject cohorts each with a unique focus or emphasis.
New! Theater Teaching Credential Program
Students at San Diego State University will now have the opportunity to obtain a single-subject teaching credential in theater.