Student California Teachers Association

Becoming a Teacher

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Elementary (multiple subject) Teacher Requirements

If you would like to teach in public elementary school, then a multiple subject teaching credential is for you! This also applies to some middle schools that are all-inclusive.

This credential is a two-tiered system. First, you receive a "preliminary credential" which is good for five years. Then, take additional courses and complete a fifth year of study (which is met through your credential or teacher preparation program) to obtain a "professional clear credential." A clear credential is renewable every five years.

Requirements for a Preliminary Credential:

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree or higher from any regionally accredited university.
Pass the CBEST (California Basic Assessment Educational Skills Test) http://www.cbest.nesinc.com/.
Prove subject matter competency. You may do this by taking the CSET (California Subject Examination for Teachers) http://www.cset.nesinc.com/. After 7/1/2004, the CSET will be the only way to prove competency.
Finish an official teacher preparation or credential program that includes student teaching.
Pass the RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment) http://www.rica.nesinc.com/.
Complete an English Language Skills / reading instruction course.
U.S. Constitution requirement (this can be met with college courses or an examination; check with the University you are applying to).
If you have completed the CBEST and CSET, some universities offer special internship options. Internships typically allow you to teach while earning a credential. Call your university to see if they provide internship opportunities.

Requirements for a Professional Clear Credential:

Finish your fifth year of study (completing a credential program will satisfy this requirement).
Finish approved courses in Special Education, Computer Education, and Health Education.

We do our best to provide you with the most up-to-date information on teaching credentials; however, requirements are constantly changing. For the most recent information available regarding possible changes to the credentialing process, visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/default.html.

Special thanks to TEACH California (formerly CalTeach), which provided much of this information. During your years of service you helped many students enter the noble profession of teaching. Your program will be sorely missed but not forgotten.