At the California School of Education (CSOE), we maintain that education is a great equalizer, and we recognize the importance of qualified subject matter competency in every classroom. Your passion for teaching can be discovered through this preliminary single-subject teaching credential program, offering comprehensive training for your future as an educator specializing in specific academic subjects.
The single subject credential program is for students who want to teach a specific subject in a secondary education setting. This teacher education program provides the much needed training and basic skills to earn the credential. Each teacher candidate receives individualized support and mentorship to ensure their success. Educators with this credential are qualified to teach subjects like math, science, or English.
The online single-subject teaching credential program offers the flexibility for you to experience asynchronous instructional delivery for coursework with in-person clinical practice experience.
Hands-On Learning
Enrolling in the single-subject credential program connects you with a field supervisor responsible for mentoring through observation and supervised experiences.
Multiple Degree Pathways
Possessing a single-subject teaching credential gives you the option to choose from student teaching, intern teaching, and early completion intern teaching. These options allow tailoring of teacher education and experience to align with your chosen career path.
Three Ways to Earn Your Preliminary Single-Subject Credential Online
Here is how to become a single-subject teacher in California with Alliant:
Student Teaching
Under the student teaching option, you will complete a 16-week student teaching placement under the guidance of an experienced teacher and field supervisor. This option provides the ideal environment to study pedagogy and apply it in the classroom before beginning a career as a full-time teacher.
Ideal for those entering the teacher preparation program with classroom experience, this option is open to all teacher candidates, regardless of experience level. The initial class equips you with the tools and knowledge for success in the internship.
The early completion option is an abbreviated version of the standard intern teaching path. Similar to the intern teaching option, you will serve as a paid teacher of record. This online teacher credentialing program is designed for experienced classroom teachers who still need a preliminary teaching credential. Admission to the ECO program is contingent upon completing assessment exams designated by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
What scholarship and financial aid options are available?
Private and public scholarships are available to help offset the cost of your education at Alliant, and institutional scholarships are offered to many students. Additional financial aid options, including loans, grants, federal work-study, and military aid, are available for those who qualify. Further details can be found in our Financial Options Guide.
Does graduation from this program prepare me for licensure exams?
This program thoroughly prepares candidates for teacher licensure exams, including the Assessment of Professional Knowledge (APK), CSET, and TPA exams. You will undergo a teaching performance assessment, a crucial step toward earning your California teaching credential.
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When does the program start?Â
The program operates on an eight-week term basis and is open for enrollment during each respective enrollment period. For the academic calendar, refer to the eight-week term calendar here.
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How long does it take to complete the program?
The credential is a 21-, 28-, or 30-credit program, depending on your internship track. The program takes a minimum of one year to complete over five or six terms.
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What are the differences between multiple- and single-subject teaching credentials?
A multiple-subject credential equips you to teach various subjects, fostering student learning across diverse areas. In contrast, a single-subject credential allows you to specialize in teaching one subject, such as math, English, or history, typically at the middle or high school level.
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Career opportunities for teacher candidates with a Single Subject Credential
Whether you aspire to become a teacher in elementary education, special education, or early childhood education, this educator preparation program will provide you with a clear roadmap to achieve the needed qualifications. You will learn the multifaceted facets of child development, and student learning. Here are a few options to consider:
Middle school and high school teacher – Teaching in secondary education is one the most common teaching careers which includes teaching in a public or private school.
Tutor or private teacher – Some teachers may choose to work as private tutors or teachers, either as a primary career or a part-time opportunity. Having this credential can be an advantage in this type of work, as it can demonstrate expertise and credibility in a particular subject area.
Coach or extracurricular adviser – Many schools hire teachers to coach sports teams or advise other extracurricular activities, such as drama or debate clubs, particularly if they have certification in a subject area that aligns with the activity.
Education consultant – This could involve working for a government entity, or a nonprofit group to influence education policy and improve educational outcomes for students.
Curriculum development and instructional designer – This could involve creating educational materials and lesson plans for other teachers, or designing educational software or other technology-based resources.
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Does Alliant offer methodology courses so that I can add a teaching or content area to my teaching credential?
No, Alliant only offers full teacher preparation programs.
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"In my experience with Alliant, it was very clear from the start that there was a commitment to education being the great equalizer. I feel like I got tools through my learning at Alliant that are allowing me to become a better teacher and reach out to everyone in my classrooms."
Evelyn Serrano
CSOE Alumna
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Why Alliant
At Alliant, our mission is to prepare students for professional careers of service and leadership and to promote the discovery and application of knowledge to improve lives. We offer an education that is accredited, focused on practical knowledge and skills, connected with diverse faculty and alumni, and aimed at the student experience.
CSOE offers a variety of degrees, certificates, and credentials in education that prepare you to make a lasting difference through teaching, counseling, leadership, advocacy, administration, management, and community work. Whether you’re looking for an online degree program or an in-person learning experience for your higher education, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
