Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential, Track A
and Master of Arts in Education: Teaching

Ten Steps to Becoming a Teacher

(All Credential Programs)

Step 1: Successful Completion of First Module of Teaching Coursework

Step 2: Successful Completion of Second Module of Teaching Coursework

Step 3: Clearance to Advance to Module 3, Clinical Practice

• Subject-matter competence according to state and program guidelines by:
  • Proof of passage of California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET):
    • Multiple-Subject:
      • All three Subtests
    • Single-Subject:
      • Official verification of completion of a CCTC-approved subject-matter program signed by the credential analyst at the institution of higher education in which courses were successfully completed
        — or —
      • Proof of passage of approved subject-matter exam(s), e.g., California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET): Single-Subject Assessment Examination (all required subtests)
    • Special Education
      • Proof of passage of California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) for multiple-subject programs
• U.S. Constitution requirement (by test or by verified coursework)
• Verification of passage of CBEST
• Completion of specific TEP Program coursework to date, with remediation for grades lower than B (3.0)
  NOTE: Remediation does not change the course grade but shows competency that allows the teacher candidate to proceed. Candidates must re-take courses with grades of D or F with the permission of the program director. Candidates initially admitted with Provisional Program Acceptance must maintain a minimum
  cumulative GPA of 3.0 and no grade lower than a B- in the first 12 units to remain eligible for continued enrollment at the university.
  
• Verification of negative results from a Mantoux TB skin test (may be verified through submission of current Pre-Intern Permit or Emergency Permit)
• Continuing positive disposition characteristics including emotional stability, interpersonal relations, evidence of mental and physical health, evidence of meeting ongoing “character” standards, and other requirements listed on the application.
  NOTE: Candidates must report any changes or issues in “character” standings, including unresolved issues with the law and/or the CCTC, to the credential analysts at APU. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the program.
  
• Candidates must attend a mandatory orientation meeting as directed by the department before Clinical Practice begins.
• Clinical Practice is met through one of the following:
  • Traditional candidate teaching in a master teacher’s classroom during the third and fourth modules (18 weeks, full-time, voluntary work).
  • Contracted teaching assignment in the candidates’ own classroom.

Step 4: Successful completion of Clinical Practice and all coursework and corequisites in Modules 3 and 4

Step 5: Successful completion of all additional credential courses (See advising sheet.)

Step 6: TPEs, TPAs, and other Credential Program requirements

• For the Preliminary Credential, candidates must demonstrate mastery of all Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs) through Teacher Performance Assessments (TPAs) and all other credential program requirements as designated by the program director. A one-time assessment fee is levied at the beginning of the program.

Step 7: RICA

• Multiple-Subject and Special Education Candidates are required to pass the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) before applying for a Preliminary Credential.

Step 8: CPR for 2042 Preliminary Credentials

• CPR for infants, children, and adults (verified with a copy of both sides of a CPR card)

Step 9: Applying for the credential

• Preliminary Credential
  • Candidates may apply for the Preliminary Credential upon successful completion of all above criteria. The Preliminary Credential is valid for five years and nonrenewable. Contact the credential analysts’ office at the end of Module 4 for application materials.
• Professional Clear Credential
  • Candidates must apply directly through their school districts after participating in an Individualized Induction Plan according to 2042 CCTC standards. Please contact the Department of Teacher Education concerning the application process if teaching in a private school or in a school district not offering an induction program.

Step 10: Additional Required Courses for Master of Arts in Education: Teaching

NOTE: Completion of all credential requirements, including all examinations, coursework, and other requirements, must be met before a candidate may participate in the graduation ceremony for the Master of Arts in Education: Teaching and have their degree posted.