If you are pursuing a masters in teaching, you may want to explore combined masters and teaching credential programs. Attending a combined program such as best online teaching credential programs california, master’s and credential programs  and online teaching credential programs California can help you develop the skills and experience you need to attain state licensure and pursue a career in education upon graduation.

Looking for the best information on UCLA teaching credential program cost, free teaching credential program & MAT programs in California? Then you need not search further as the article below brings you the most relevant information on them all.

Best Online Masters and Teaching Credential Programs California

In the state of California, candidates may earn a preliminary credential for a single subject or multiple subjects. This would include earning a degree in an approved educator preparation program and passing the relevant exams. If the candidate already has a bachelor’s degree, then they can complete a master’s degree program that would lead to the preliminary credential. The general information for a preliminary credential is summarized in the table below.

One of the options available to prospective educators in California is getting licensed through the completion of a Commission on Teacher Credentialing approved educator program from an accredited college or university.

If you want to begin or continue your education as a teacher, a combined master’s & credential program can be beneficial.

These programs are often designed for students who want to pursue a Master of Education (M.Ed.) or a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) along with teaching credentials. Topics studied in MEd and MAT programs are similar, but the choice of which one to choose depends on your career goals and interests.

M.Ed.	M.A.T
Prepares students for careers in policy, education, or administrationFocuses on topics within educational systemsCommon topics: curriculum design and instruction, guidance counseling, and education administration	Prepares students for teaching in the classroomFocuses on pedagogy and best teaching practices in the classroomFor students without a bachelors in education or for those who want to obtain a master’s and still teach

Joint master’s degree and teaching credential programs are typically full-time, 16 month programs completed over four semesters. They are often offered on campus, online, or in a hybrid format at many colleges and universities.

A combined credential and master’s program is designed for students to earn both their master’s degree and their teaching credentials simultaneously. Teacher credentialing programs prepare students for state licensure. To teach in a public or private school, state licensure is nearly always required.

All states have different licensing requirements, so it’s beneficial to check with your state’s education department before enrolling in a combined master’s and credential program.

Masters and Credential Programs California

In the state of California, candidates may earn a preliminary credential for a single subject or multiple subjects. This would include earning a degree in an approved educator preparation program and passing the relevant exams. If the candidate already has a bachelor’s degree, then they can complete a master’s degree program that would lead to the preliminary credential. The general information for a preliminary credential is summarized in the table below.

Education/Experience Required	Bachelor’s degree (minimum)
Exam Requirements	CBEST or CSET or CSU
Certification Renewal Period	Five years
Requirements for Renewal	The preliminary credential cannot be renewed
Average Salary (2018)	$37,850 (preschool teachers in CA) $69,690 (kindergarten teachers in CA) $80,100 (elementary teachers in CA) $75,660 (middle school in teachers in CA) $80,510 (high school teachers in CA)*
Estimated Job Growth (2016-2026)	8% (high school teachers nationally)*

Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Masters and Credential Programs Accredited Colleges

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing maintains a database of institutions that offer graduate education programs as well as approved educator preparation programs. For a single subject preliminary credential, the degree program would be specific to the subject that the candidate would like to teach. A multiple subject credential, on the other hand, would require an educator preparation program that covers several areas that would allow the holder to teach from preschool to Grade 12. In order to apply for a master’s degree program, the applicant must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university.

On-Campus Programs

The Azusa Pacific University offers a Master’s of Arts in Education program in Learning and Technology in the single subject, multiple subject and education specialist categories. This degree program focuses on helping teachers integrate technology into the curriculum they must design for their specific subject area. The candidate is expected to have a GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate degree in order to get a clear acceptance. California Baptist University also offers a single subject, multiple subject, and education specialist credential courses that are combined with master’s degree programs. The credential courses include topics such as Educational Psychology, Classroom Management, and Ethics and Technology and Learning. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a 2.75 GPA in order to apply for these programs.

Online Programs

Online programs are an excellent option for prospective educators who lack the time to be present on a school campus. The Azusa Pacific University also offers a Master’s of Arts in Physical Education program which is geared towards a single subject preliminary credential in this area. The master’s program is available 100% online. Fielding Graduate University also offers a Masters of Arts in Infant and Early Childhood Development. The program is a combination of online live teaching sessions and self-paced learning activities and is geared towards persons who wish to teach children from birth to the age of six. In order to be considered for acceptance, candidates must have at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5.

Credential Information

After meeting the requirements for the preliminary credential, the candidate can then complete the application process through the online portal on the Commission on Teacher Credentialing website. The preliminary credential is valid for five years and cannot be renewed. While holding the preliminary credential, the educator is expected to complete an approved teacher induction program in order to upgrade to a clear credential.

Online Teacher Credential Programs in California

As of 2019, there are approximately 250 institutions throughout California that offer teacher credential programs, ranging from the certificate to graduate degree level. The programs typically require a combination of coursework and practical fieldwork as a public school student teacher. While the student teaching program is conducted on site, some schools offer students the opportunity to complete their courses online. This is an excellent option for students living in rural areas or who do not have time to travel to the school. Take a look below to learn about four schools which offer online teacher credential programs.

The schools are:

1. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching program that gives students the opportunity to receive a teacher credential recommendation. Prospective students can choose to enroll in the elementary school Multiple Subject Teaching concentration or one of the secondary school concentrations (English, mathematics, social science, science). Each program includes coursework and practical field experience that cover four broad areas: foundations, language and literacy, teaching methods, and field experience and capstone portfolio. The program requires a minimum of 28 credits and can be completed in one to three years.

Strayer University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

2. Strayer University

MASTER

• Master in Education: Adult Education & Development
• Master in Education: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
• Master in Education: Teacher Leadership

Capella University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

3. Capella University

MASTER

• MS Ed – Early Childhood Education Studies
• Master’s – Instruction in the 1:1 Environment
• MEd – Teaching and Learning
• Master’s – Early Childhood Education

Pacific Oaks College responds quickly to information requests through this website.

4. Pacific Oaks College

MASTER

• M.A. Early Childhood Education
• M.A. Education: Elementary Education
• M.A. Education with Prelimary Education Specialist Instruction Credential

Northcentral University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

5. Northcentral University

MASTER

• Master – Education: Curriculum & Teaching
• Master – Education: General Education
• Master – Education: Early Childhood Education
• Master – Education: Higher Education Leadership

Walden University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

6. Walden University

MASTER

• MS in Education – Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment (Grades K-12)
• MS in Education – Self-Designed

Liberty University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

7. Liberty University

MASTER

• MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching (36 Hours): Elementary Education
• MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching (36 Hours): Middle Grades Education
• MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching (36 Hours): Secondary Education
• MAT: Master of Arts in Teaching (45 Hours): Elementary Education

Purdue University Global responds quickly to information requests through this website.

8. Purdue University Global

MASTER

• Master of Arts in Teaching: Noncertification
• Master of Science in Education (P-12 for current teachers)
• Master of Science in Higher Education: College Teaching & Learning

Southern New Hampshire University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

9. Southern New Hampshire University

MASTER

• MEd in Curriculum and Instruction – Dyslexia Studies & LBLD
• MS in Higher Education Administration
• MEd in Curriculum & Instruction
• MEd in Curriculum & Instruction – Technology Integration Specialist

Regent University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

10. Regent University

MASTER

• M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction
• M.Ed. – Individualized Degree Program

best teaching credential programs in california

1. California State University

CSU’s state-wide CalStateTEACH program is a Multiple Subject program that combines online coursework with student teaching in a local classroom. The program requires students to complete 15 semester units over one to three years. Students have three credentialing pathways in the program: student teaching, intern teacher, and employed private teacher. All pathways require fieldwork as a student teacher in a public school as part of the program.

2. Pacific Oaks College

Students at Pacific Oaks College have online teacher credential program options at the certificate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels. The school offers three Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree options: elementary education, elementary and special education, and human development with a Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. The B.A. degrees require a minimum of 120 credits and include fieldwork as a student teacher. At the master’s degree level, students can choose between a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Special Education or a M.A.T. in Elementary Education. Both programs require 43 credits to complete, including student teaching. A standalone Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential certificate is available for those who already have a bachelor’s degree. This program requires 37 credits of coursework and student teaching fieldwork.

3. Concordia University – Irvine

At Concordia University in Irvine, students who already possess a degree can enroll in the teacher credential program, which combines online coursework and student teaching. There are four credential program options: single subject, multiple subject, mild-moderate teaching, and clear induction. The school offers the single subject credential in several areas, including English, mathematics, music, science, social science, and art. Courses last 7-15 weeks and students are required to complete one public school semester of student teaching, which typically lasts 18 weeks.

California Teacher Colleges and Degrees Online Guide

The information found below is meant to be an informative guide for anyone looking for teaching schools in California. There are many colleges and universities in California that offer teacher preparation programs that prepare aspiring teachers for a long career in the classroom. For more information on the various teaching degrees in California, scroll down to find lists of top-rated teaching programs, a table of accredited, state-approved teacher preparation programs, and student reviews. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to change your current career, the teacher career guide below can help you jumpstart your way into a fascinating career in education.

Quick Facts

• There are 151 colleges and universities with teacher degree programs in California.¹
• 45 colleges and universities offer an associate’s degree in education.*¹
• 53 colleges and universities offer a bachelor’s degree in education.*¹
• 82 colleges and universities offer a master’s or advanced degree in education.*¹
• 17 schools ranked in Kiplinger’s Best College Values 2019.²
• 1 school ranked in Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Education Majors 2020.³
• 24 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Programs 2019.⁴
• 10 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs 2019.⁵
• 17 not-for-profit teacher programs are accredited by the NCATE, TEAC, or CAEP.

*For not-for-profit colleges and universities with teacher degree programs.

master’s teaching credential programs california ranking

Kiplinger’s Best College Values 2019*

• Stanford University (#20)
• University of California-Berkeley (#64)
• University of Southern California (#83)
• University of California-Los Angeles (#84)
• California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (#86)
• Santa Clara University (#112)
• University of California-Santa Barbara (#146)
• University of California-San Diego (#155)
• University of California-Irvine (#170)
• California State University-Long Beach (#184)
• San Diego State University (#196)
• Pepperdine University (#199)
• University of San Diego (#223)
• Loyola Marymount University (#230)
• University of California-Davis (#256)
• University of California-Santa Cruz (#289)
• Point Loma Nazarene University (#292)

*Institution-wide ranking.

Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Education Majors 2020

• Loyola Marymount University

US News & World Report’s Best Graduate Education Programs 2019

• Stanford University (#3 tie)
• University of California-Los Angeles (#3 tie)
• University of Southern California (#12)
• University of California-Berkeley (#18 tie)
• University of California-Irvine (#23 tie)
• University of California-Davis (#36 tie)
• San Diego State University (#53 tie)
• University of California-Santa Barbara (#53 tie)
• Loyola Marymount University (#57 tie)
• University of California-Riverside (#66 tie)
• University of California-San Diego (#71 tie)
• University of California-Santa Cruz (#85 tie)
• Claremont Graduate University (#104 tie)
• University of San Diego (#134 tie)
• Chapman University (#143 tie)
• University of San Francisco (#143 tie)
• Mills College (#151 tie)
• California State University-Sacramento (#172 tie)
• Pepperdine University (#186 tie)
• Alliant International University (#195-258)
• Azusa Pacific University (#195-258)
• Brandman University (#195-258)
• University of La Verne (#195-258)
• University of Redlands (#195-258)

US News & World Report’s Best Online Graduate Education Programs 2019

• San Diego State University (#25 tie)
• California State University-Fullerton (#38 tie)
• University of San Diego (#42 tie)
• California Baptist University (#77 tie)
• Brandman University (#115 tie)
• California State University-East Bay (#148 tie)
• National University (#222 tie)
• Academy of Art University (#228-299)
• Azusa Pacific University (#228-299)
• La Sierra University (#228-299)

Master’s in Education & Teaching Curriculum

Your classes will vary depending on the university you attend, but master’s programs in education or teaching typically have courses like the following:

• Curriculum Design and Assessment: This course can help you learn how to design a curriculum, from course outlines to content mapping and learning objectives.
• Coping with Stress in Today’s Classroom: This course addresses a variety of issues in children’s lives that impact their education. It also addresses the role of the teacher in providing support.
• School, Community, and Diverse Family Structures: This course can help you develop the skills needed to work with families from culturally and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds.
• Brian-Based Teaching and Learning: This course is designed to provide teachers with the latest research in brain-based learning and instructional theory.
• Developing Character and Ethics: This course provides instruction for how to weave ethical themes and character development into today’s schools.
• Curriculum Theory and History: This class covers the history and design of various educational activities.
• Principles of Teaching and Learning: This course is an examination of the relationships between teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Instructional Models in the Education of Gifted Children: This class can help you learn how to differentiate between different curriculums to meet the needs of gifted children.
• Gender, Difference, and Curriculum: This course is an introduction to school curriculums, policies, and practices as they pertain to gender.
• Critical Perspectives in Elementary Education: This class examines the experiences, practices, and purposes of elementary teachers in the U.S. today.

This is just a sampling of the courses you may have in your master’s program. The courses you study as a master’s student will depend on the requirements of your program.

combined master’s and teaching credential programs california online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online, on campus, or in a hybrid format.

1. Ball State University

Ball State University offers a Master’s in Secondary Education degree program that offers a concentration track called the Dual Credit Teaching Credential. This concentration allows students to choose 18 credit hours in a content area, such as Math, English, or Technology. Those interested in the program may apply online.

Ball State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. California University – Fullerton

California University—Fullerton offers a program that allows students to pursue a Multiple Subject Credential and a Master’s in Education.

The program can typically be completed in 16 months and allows students to take courses online or in a hybrid format. The program only begins during the fall semester and requires students to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

California State University – Fullerton is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

3. Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers an online program named TEACHERREADY. The program allows students to pursue a master’s degree as they receive teaching credentials for grades K through 12. The program requires 36 semester hours. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5.

Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.

4. Dominican University of California

Dominican University of California offers a Master of Science in Education and Teacher Credentials program.

The program requires students to complete a minimum of 48 units that are offered through a hybrid format. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and 2 letters of recommendation. Applicants may also be required to complete a personal interview.

The Dominican University of California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

5. Drexel University

Drexel University offers a program that allows students to pursue a Master of Science in Teaching along with dual certification in Secondary and Special Education.

The program requires 48 credit hours and a 12 week student teaching experience. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0, 2 professional letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and official transcripts.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

6. National University

National University offers a Master of Education in Inspired Teaching and Learning with the option to receive teaching credentials. Each course is 4 weeks long and takes place on campus. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher to be eligible for the degree.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

7. University of California – Davis

The University of California—Davis offers a Master of Arts in Education program that allows students to pursue their teaching credentials at the same time. Students can select teaching credentials from 6 subjects, including Agriculture and Science. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

UC Davis is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

8. University of Redlands

The University of Redlands offers a Master of Arts in Education, Learning, and Teaching. The program offers 3 pathways, including an Educational Specialist Teaching Credential. The program requires students to complete 39 units to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.75 or higher, official transcripts, and 2 letters of recommendation.

The University of Redlands is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

9. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a Master’s in Education that also enables students to obtain teaching credentials.

The program offers a number of credential tracks, including dual credential tracks that allow students to obtain credentials for 2 separate teaching fields. Applicants must submit a resume, official transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

The University of San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges-Senior College and University Commission.

10. University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco offers a dual degree in Teacher Preparation. This program allows students to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a major of their choice, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and teaching credentials.

The teaching credentials may be in multiple subjects for elementary schools or in a single subject for middle and high schools. Applicants must submit AP test scores and 2 essays.

The university also offers an online masters in educational technology for students interested in this specialization.

The University of San Francisco is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Combined Master’s and Teaching Credential Programs Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for combined master’s and teaching credential programs are similar to the admission requirements for all master’s programs.

Typically, the following items are required for a combined master’s and teaching credential program:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Letters of recommendation
• Specified prerequisites and experience

Requirements and policies will vary based on the institution, so it is helpful to check a school’s admission requirements before applying.

combined credential and master’s program Accreditation

It’s important to ensure the school you are attending is regionally accredited. Accreditation certifies that the school has met the highest levels of academic quality set forth. Regionally accredited schools have participated in a rigorous screening process to ensure all standards have been met.

Attending a non-accredited school may impact your financial aid and employment opportunities. Many forms of financial aid are only awarded to accredited programs, and many employers only recognize degrees from accredited programs. Online education degree programs are held to the same standards as all universities and programs.

To see if your program is accredited, you can visit the U.S. Department of Education.

Teaching Licensure and Certifications

Teaching certification or licensing is the process that a teacher needs to go through in order to be able to teach in a particular state. Each state has its own name and requirements for this process.

If you plan on teaching, it is beneficial to research the licensure requirements of your state before enrolling in a program. It’s also helpful to have an idea of what you want to teach. Licensing requirements vary depending on grade level and subject matter.

What degree do you need to be a teacher? A bachelor’s degree is required in every state for licensure. In addition, most states require a combination of certifications, field experience, and continuing education requirements.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

If you qualify, you may be able to receive financial aid and scholarships for your combined master’s degree and teaching program. Federal and state governments award financial aid to graduate students based on need.

To see if you qualify, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Depending on where and what you plan to teach, you may also qualify for the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.

This grant is given to students who agree to teach in a “high needs” area for 4 years. This might be a certain school, such as a public high school in an impoverished area, or a certain subject area, such as mathematics or bilingual education.

You can check with your program to see if you can qualify for the TEACH Grant. There may also be scholarship opportunities available. You may find aid from nonprofit organizations, your place of employment, or your program’s education department.

Masters and Credential Programs Job Opportunities

There are many avenues you may pursue with a master’s degree in teaching. You may, of course, continue teaching in both public and private schools. A master’s degree can also help open the door to positions in higher education settings.

You may pursue work in administration and leadership roles as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most principals and superintendents hold master’s degrees. Some graduates even look for work in a non-teaching position, such as educational consultant, corporate trainer, or curriculum developer.

With a master’s in teaching, you may have work opportunities in a variety of industries. Teaching jobs are often the most common, but there are many other career paths you can pursue with a masters as well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, elementary and secondary schools hire the majority of all teachers with masters degrees.

Educational support services, religious organizations, colleges, universities, and state government jobs also hire a great number of graduate-level teachers. Principals holding a master’s degree generally make the highest salaries on average.

Here are just some of the jobs that can be pursued with a master’s in teaching, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Careers	Annual Median Salaries
Elementary, Middle School, and High School Principals	$98,490
Postsecondary Teachers	$80,790
Instructional Coordinators	$66,970
High School Teachers	$62,870
Special Education Teachers	$61,420
Middle School Teachers	$60,810
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers	$60,660
Career and Technical Education Teachers	$59,140
Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers	$55,350
Preschool Teachers	$31,930

Some of the jobs listed above may require additional licensure, degrees, or specializations to obtain. For instance, most universities require a doctorate degree for entry-level postsecondary teaching positions. Many community colleges, though, hire professors with masters degrees.

Is It Worth Getting a Masters in Teaching and Teaching Credential at the Same Time?

Yes, getting a masters in teaching and a teaching credential at the same time is worth it for many students.

A teaching credential is needed to teach, so it can be strategic to pursue both at the same time. Plus, pursuing both simultaneously may cut down on the cost of your education and the time spent enrolled within the program.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median wages are higher for those who hold a master’s degree over a bachelor’s degree in nearly every teaching position. In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth for education, training, and library occupations.

Can You Get a Masters in Teaching without a Bachelor’s in Teaching?

Yes, you can receive a masters in teaching without holding a bachelors degree in teaching.

A bachelors degree is typically required to enroll in a masters in teaching program, but it does not necessarily need to be a bachelors degree in teaching or education. Many schools allow you to enroll in a combined masters and teaching credential program as long as you hold a bachelor’s degree in any program.