Local school districts anticipate needing thousands of new teachers in the next few years. For individuals who are committed to making a positive difference for students, this is a fantastic time to pursue a teaching credential. No matter your major, you can start preparing today for a career in teaching.
PATHWAYS TO PK–12 TEACHING
To become a teacher you need a California Preliminary Teaching Credential.
A teaching credential is a state-issued license to teach in a public school.
At SDSU there are 2 pathways to get your teaching credential!
ITEP 4-Year Undergraduate Major
Plus Credential
The Integrated Teacher Education Programs (ITEP) pathway typically takes 4 years and combines a bachelor's and credential program so that you can complete your general education, major and credential coursework, and student teaching within the 4 years it takes to earn a bachelor's degree.
Majors Offering ITEP Pathway
ITEPs for high-need subject areas are now recruiting in the following SDSU undergraduate majors:
- Child & Family Development
Special Education Credential, Early Childhood Specialization - Liberal Studies
Multiple Subject* Credential
Bilingual Multiple Subject* Credential
Special Education Credential, Mild/Moderate Support Needs Specialization
Special Education Credential, Extensive Support Needs Specialization - Mathematics for Single Subject Teaching
Credential in single subject math - Chemistry for Single Subject Teaching
Credential in single subject chemistry - Social Science for Single Subject Teaching
Credential in single subject social science
ITEP is not available to those who have already obtained a bachelor's degree.
*A multiple subject credential is usually used for elementary school teaching.
Who is the ITEP pathway for?
- Those who do not currently hold a bachelor's degree
- Usually high school students or local San Diego community college students (see ITEP Community College Partners)
- Those who know they want to be a teacher at the beginning of their higher education career
- Those who want to be in a major designed for future teachers
5TH Year Stand-Alone Credential
The second pathway typically requires 5 years and involves earning a bachelor's degree (including general education and major coursework) and completing credential prerequisites; this generally takes 4 years. Then you must complete a credential program which includes credential coursework and student teaching; this can be completed in two to three semesters.
Teaching Credential Subject Areas
Teaching credential programs are offered in the following subject areas:
Elementary School Teaching
- Multiple Subjects (K–6)
- Multiple Subjects (K–6) - Bilingual
Middle/High School Teaching
- Single Subject - Bilingual
- Single Subject (English)
- Single Subject (Mathematics)
- Single Subject (Science)
- Single Subject (Social Science)
- Single Subject (Art)
- Single Subject (Music)
- Single Subject (Physical Education)
Special Education
- Early Childhood Specialization
- Mild to Moderate Specialization
- Extensive Support Needs Specialization
Who is the credential pathway for?
- Those who already hold a bachelor's degree (or higher)
- Those who are in their last two years of undergraduate studies
- Those who may have realized later in their higher education career that teaching is their calling
VIDEOS: HEAR DIRECTLY FROM OUR GRADUATES
Why I Chose to Teach...
SCIENCE
MAThematics
BILINGUAL ED
SPECIAL ED
NEXT STEPS: INFO & ADVISING
ITEP PROGRAMS
Learn more about the ITEP 4-year Teacher Preparation Programs.
Major Specific Questions
Only the following majors offer the ITEP pathway. If you want to learn more, contact an advisor for the specific programs below.
Child & Family Development for Early Childhood Special Education Teaching
Advisors: Alison Sternal & Christine Cortez
Email: [email protected]
Liberal Studies for Multiple Subject (Elementary) Teaching
Advisors: Alison Sternal & Christine Cortez
Email: [email protected]
Website: Liberal Studies Program
Mathematics for Single Subject Teaching
Advisor: Steven Klass
Email: [email protected]
Chemistry for Single Subject Teaching
Advisor: Dr. David Pullman
Email: [email protected]
Social Science for Single Subject Teaching
Advisor: Dr. Brian Adams
Email: [email protected]
CREDENTIAL PROGRAMS
Attend an Info Session
Sessions include general info regarding application requirements for our credential programs.
Meet with an Advisor
Talk to an advisor to find out which program works best for you.
How to Apply
Learn about prerequisite courses, exams and deadlines for the CSU and program applications.
General Questions
For general questions about teaching pathways, contact [email protected].
NOTICE TO STUDENTS RE: PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION
California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student to meet California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.
The California State University has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students enrolled in a California State University program who are planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C). I
Information concerning licensure and credentialing requirements are available from the Office for Student Success ([email protected]).