What is a teaching credential?

A teaching credential is an authorization to teach in public schools. Being a teacher is one of the most rewarding occupations, and earning a teaching credential will be one of your most gratifying accomplishments.

Are there different types of credentials?

YES. In California there are many different types of credentials. The two most common credentials are the “multiple-subject” credential and the “single-subject” credential. The multiple-subject credential allows you to teach in elementary school classrooms (usually kindergarten through sixth grade). The “single-subject” credential allows an individual to teach in junior high and high schools. Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6 is intended for individuals wanting to become elementary school teachers.

Is the credentialing process different in California than in other states?

YES. Each state has its own set of exams, courses, and other requirements. Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6 is the only book that guides you through the process in California.

How do I earn a credential?

To earn your teaching credential, you must pass a series of tests. You must also go through a “teacher preparation program,” sometimes called a “teacher credentialing program,” at a college or university.

What are the different types of teacher preparation programs?

There are several different types of programs. Some meet the needs of full-time students, while others are designed for working adults. Some programs offer accelerated coursework designed for those who already have baccalaureate (4-year) degrees, while others are designed for those who want to get their baccalaureate degree and teaching credential at the same time. Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6, explains the different types of programs. The book also tells you how to find the right program at the right school. The book contains contact information for every credentialing school in California, what types of programs they offer, and their websites.

How do I get into a teacher preparation program?

There are several prerequisites to acceptance into a teacher preparation program. The exact requirements depend on the type of program you are applying to. Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6 prepares you for all of the major prerequisites.

What tests am I going to have to take?

To earn your credential, you will have to take the CBEST, CSET, and RICA exams. You will also have to satisfy the U.S. Constitution requirement. The book, Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6, addresses each of these exams. Although this book is not a test-preparation guide, it does discuss each exam, what it covers, when to take it, how to register for it, what to bring to the exam, tips and advice to help you pass the exam, and how to obtain your results.

How do I get a teaching job once I have earned my credential?

Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6, includes an entire chapter dedicated to helping you land a teaching job. It details the prerequisites for getting a job and gives you important networking strategies. You will also find sample resumes from recently hired teachers, and tips to make your professional portfolio better. You can refer to our Directory of School Districts, which contains contact information, district websites, and salary information for California school districts.

What questions will they ask me at my job interview?

Earn Your California Teaching Credential: K-6 contains 20 common interview questions, as well as interviewing tips. Interviewing can be a stressful process. Knowing the types of questions and preparing your answers can make the interviewing process easier.