Elementary and Middle/High School Teaching Credential Programs
Multiple and Single Subject Preliminary Teaching Credentials
PK-12 Teaching in California
To become a teacher in California public schools, you need a Preliminary Teaching Credential—a state-issued license that authorizes you to teach in a self-contained classroom from preschool through 12th grade.
What makes SDSU unique?
1. Strong partnerships with local public schools
2. Our famous cohort model
Each cohort is guided closely by one or two faculty site coordinators. The cohort and site coordinators 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.
3. Crucial multicultural teaching focus
4. Powerful research-practice connection
5. Two, three, and four-semester program options
6. Affordable tuition
The 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
The Multiple Subject Teaching Credential authorizes you to teach all subjects in a self-contained classroom and is most frequently used in elementary schools. However, it can also be used in a core setting in middle and K-8 schools.
Prerequisites
Before applying through Cal State Apply, you’ll need to gather several important materials for the Program Materials section of the application. Most applicants spend 3 months or more preparing items such as prerequisite coursework, field experience documentation, letters of recommendation, and required tests or clearances.
Some requirements may be in progress at the time of application, but key items like exams and the Certificate of Clearance must be completed before admission.
Learn more about credential admissions requirements and how to prepare.
Student Teaching & Required Courses
Each student completes student teaching in a K-6 classroom. Students enrolled in the multiple subject teacher preparation program complete a set of required courses, with the schedule and sequence varying based on individual cohort offerings.
To view all course requirements for the latest academic year visit the University Catalog and search for Elementary Education, Multiple Subject (SB 2042) Credential.
Multiple Subject Cohorts
Each cohort is guided closely by a site coordinator. The cohort and site coordinators 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.
The Cajon Valley Cohort is a two-semester, hybrid program with some online courses and in-person student teaching in Cajon Valley Union School District. Focused on diverse learners, it offers rigorous training in inclusive, standards-based instruction.
The Chula Vista Partnership cohort is a two-semester hybrid program with courses at SDSU and local schools, plus in-person student teaching in Chula Vista Elementary School District. Focused on diverse learners, it offers rigorous training in inclusive, standards-based instruction.
The cohort is a two-semester program partnering with La Mesa-Spring Valley School District, focusing on whole-child teaching and inclusive practices. Courses are held in person at a LMSV school site. It emphasizes collaboration with teachers, faculty, and families.
The San Diego Unified Partnership cohort is a two-semester program placing student teachers in diverse Area E schools. It emphasizes asset-based teaching for multilingual and underrepresented learners using research-based practices. Courses are primarily in person at Oak Park Elementary, with some online classes.
Single Subject Preliminary Teaching Credential Program
The Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject(s) named on the credential in middle schools and high schools (English, social science, mathematics and science) and in K–12 (physical education, art, music, dance and theater).
Acceptable Single Subject Credential Areas and Applicable Majors
- Art
- English Language Arts: Comparative Literature, English
- Mathematics
- Music Education
- Physical Education
- Science: Biology, Chemistry, Foundational Level General Science, Physical Science
- Social Science
- Theater
Prerequisites
Before applying through Cal State Apply, you’ll need to gather several important materials for the Program Materials section of the application. Most applicants spend 3 months or more preparing items such as prerequisite coursework, field experience documentation, letters of recommendation, and required tests or clearances.
Some requirements may be in progress at the time of application, but key items like exams and the Certificate of Clearance must be completed before admission.
Learn more about credential admissions requirements and how to prepare.
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). Students enrolled in the single subject teacher preparation program complete a set of required courses, with the schedule and sequence varying based on individual cohort offerings.
To view all course requirements for the latest academic year visit the University Catalog and search for Secondary Education, Single Subject (SB 2042) Credential.
Single Subject Cohorts
Each cohort is guided closely by a site coordinator. The cohort and site coordinators 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.
The Cross-Curricular Collaborative cohort offers a mix of online synchronous and asynchronous classes for all single-subject areas. Candidates work with the same guide teacher and grade level all year, building strong relationships and gaining hands-on experience in designing lessons, projects, and curricula.
The Visionary Educators Cohort fosters innovative, tech-integrated, and inclusive teaching practices. It prepares educators to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability while driving transformative change in classrooms. Courses are mainly at SDSU, with one per semester in the Grossmont Union High School District.
The Project-Based Career Prep Cohort emphasizes teamwork, real-world applications, and interdisciplinary, project-based learning. It prepares student teachers for both traditional and Linked Learning schools, blending rigorous academics with career-focused education through collaboration with peers and industry partners.
The Math and Science Cohort prepares student teachers to engage adolescents through content-focused coursework, fieldwork with expert guide teachers, and an inquiry-based approach. Students take classes together, collaborate with faculty, and gain hands-on experience teaching in diverse math or science classrooms.
Next Steps
Interested in a preliminary credential program?
Attend an Info Session
Get helpful tips on applying to our preliminary credential programs. You can also watch a pre-recorded Virtual Info Session.
