Three Semester Cohort (3SC) - Multiple Subject
Cohort Leader:
Description of Program:
The Three Semester Cohort (3SC) program provides teacher candidates a unique opportunity
to earn a teaching credential in a more flexible and personalized atmosphere. For
example, if they work or take care of children, the 3SC program is designed to accommodate
teacher candidates’ scheduling needs. They are still expected to complete a rigorous
course of study. However, teacher candidates will complete it over the course of three
semesters, which allows them more time to maximize and balance their academic learning
and personal needs. As such, teacher candidates have more time to prepare for the
EdTPA, which is a comprehensive teacher performance assessment. The 3SC program provides
teacher candidates with a robust field/practicum experience. As a result, they will
be prepared to meet the challenges, and find the joys of teaching diverse student
populations.
Description of Courses:
Courses are held on campus, at SDSU. Coursework is held in the late afternoons (4:00
- 6:40) and early evenings (7:00 - 9:40). See Program Overview for specific courses.
Description of Fieldwork:
In the first semester, teacher candidates observe/tutor for five hours a week for
ten weeks in a primary school setting (TK-1) on urban school sites. In the second
semester, teacher candidates student teach for eight weeks in an elementary school
setting (K-3). In the third semester, teacher candidates student teach for eleven
weeks in an upper elementary school setting (2-6). In this third semester, teacher
candidates help their guide teachers start the school year; this is a unique experience
for teacher candidates.
Locations of Student Teaching:
One of the unique features of the 3SC program is our flexibility in placing teacher
candidates at school sites in various San Diego County locations. 3SC teacher candidates
have been placed in San Diego Unified, Poway, Escondido, San Dieguito, El Cajon Valley,
Santee, Del Mar, Sweetwater, and several other school districts. The Cohort Leader
works with 3SC teacher candidates to determine placements.