The first decision you need to make is what or who do you want to teach? The types of teaching credentials available are the PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction, Multiple Subject, Single Subject, and Education Specialist Instruction. If you want to teach preschool through grade three, the PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction credential was created for you. If you're great with elementary and middle school kids, you might want the Multiple Subject credential. Or if you prefer working with older students and teaching one subject exclusively, you might decide to go for the Single Subject credential. And if your heart lies with students with disabilities, the Education Specialist Instruction credential is meant for you. Try the Find Your Career Path tool below to learn more!
To teach in California, you will need to earn a credential by completing a Commission-approved teacher preparation program. There are several pathways to choose from. While each has benefits, certain pathways provide particularly strong clinical practice (field experience) to prospective teachers before they become the teacher of record. Research indicates that with such practice, new teachers feel more prepared and supported, 1 and they stay with the profession longer. 2 Depending on the program, the format may be in-person, virtual, or hybrid and you may have the option to earn your bachelor's or master's degree along with your Preliminary credential (a professional-level license valid for 5 years). Programs may offer distinct opportunities to access financial resources, including the ability to start earning income and serving as the teacher sooner in some cases. Explore the program pathways to find the one that's right for you.
Pathways to CredentialingThis dashboard shows the Commission-approved institutions offering California educator preparation programs, separated out by program pathway. Navigate to each pathway using the tabs at the top, and filter to narrow down the list and find the program that's best for you.
Program Pathways DashboardOnce you're enrolled, your program will guide you in completing all your requirements. Your program sponsor can answer any questions you have about exactly what you need to do in order for you to be recommended for your Preliminary credential, a professional-level license that is valid for 5 years. You may now begin teaching based on this credential.
After you've obtained your Preliminary credential, the final step is to clear it through an induction program. Induction is a two-year job-embedded individualized program focused on extensive support and mentoring for new teachers in their first and second year of teaching and is commonly offered in cooperation with your employing school district. Upon completing induction, you will be recommended for your Clear credential! The Clear credential is the last level of credential and can be renewed every 5 years.
If you have questions at any stage in the credentialing process, please reach out to careerguidance@ctc.ca.gov so that you can be connected directly to an Education Career Counselor.
Resources to Complete Teacher Training in California
Resources for Teachers Trained Outside of California
What do you want to teach?
