Online Single Subject Teaching Credential Program Overview
At California School of Education (CSOE), we believe that education is a great equalizer and every classroom should be led by a qualified teacher of subject matter competency. You may find your passion in teaching. This preliminary single-subject teaching credential program provides all the training the future educators need to specialize in a specific academic subject and prepares you to teach in California’s middle and high schools, whether in a traditional classroom, online, or both.
The single-subject credential program provides you with the knowledge, single subject competency, and basic skills requirement you need to succeed as an educator in subjects of English, math, science, or other subjects, and puts you in the position to inspire the next generation of students. If you want to make a lasting impression with middle school or high students through teaching or wish to earn a preliminary credential, this online credential single subject teaching program is for you.
Single Subject Program Highlights
Earn Your Credential Online
The single subject teaching credential program is online, meaning all coursework can be completed at your convenience, and provides the same courses and education as an in-person teacher education program.
Hands-On Learning
When enrolled in the single-subject credential program, you will be paired up with a field supervisor who will mentor you through observation and one-on-one coaching.
Multiple Degree Pathways
With your single subject teaching credentials, you can choose from student teaching, intern teaching, and early completion intern teaching options to tailor your teacher education and experience to match the career you choose to pursue.
Admissions
Learn About Admissions Requirements
Faculty
Get to Know Our Diverse Faculty
Find Out How You Can Turn Your Bachelor’s Degree into a Rewarding Career as a Teacher
Teacher Credential Information
Three Ways to Earn Your Preliminary Single-Subject Credential Online
Here is how to become a middle or high school teacher in California with Alliant:
Student Teaching
Under the student teaching option, you’ll complete a 16-week student teaching placement in at least two grade levels under the guidance of an experienced teacher and field supervisor. The student teaching option provides the ideal environment to study pedagogy and apply it in the classroom before you begin your career as a full-time teacher.
Standard Intern Teaching
This option is ideal if you’re coming into this teacher preparation program with classroom experience, and is open to all teacher candidates, regardless of experience level. The very first class you’ll take provides you with the tools and knowledge to set you up for success in your internship.
Early Completion Intern Teaching Option (ECO)
ECO is an abbreviated version of the standard intern teaching path. Similar to the intern teaching option, you serve as a paid teacher of record. This online teacher credentialing program is designed for experienced classroom teachers who have not yet earned a preliminary teaching credential. Admission to the ECO program is contingent upon the successful completion of assessment exams designated by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
English Learner Authorization
All teacher credentialing programs receive English learner authorization embedded within the credential program.
Are you ready to start a preparation program to become an education specialist or teacher? CSOE is here to help. Contact us today to find out which course is right for you.
Links and Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
What scholarship, grant, and financial aid options are available to me?
Private and public scholarships can help you meet the cost of your education in preliminary single subject credential, and Alliant offers institutional scholarships for many of our students. Learn more about these scholarship opportunities here. Additional financial aid is available for those who qualify in the form of loans, grants, federal work study, and military aid. Learn more in our Financial Options Guide.
Other grant options are available for those who qualify:
Does graduation from this program prepare me for my licensure exams?
Yes, this program will help prepare you to both take and pass teacher-licensure exams including the Assessment of Professional Knowledge (APK) Exam, the CSET exam, and the TPA exam.
When does the program start?
The preliminary single-subject teaching credential program is an eight-week term program and is open for enrollment during each of those respective enrollment periods. You can find a copy of our eight-week term academic calendar here.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The preliminary single-subject teaching credential is either a 21-, 28-, or 30-credit program, depending on your internship track, and takes a minimum of one year to complete, over five or six terms.
Career Prospects for Teacher Candidates with a Single Subject Credential
Your career path can vary depending on the subject certification you have. Here are 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 as a side hustle. Having a single subject teaching 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 also 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.
Start on your path to succeed on purpose
"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."
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.
Why CSOE
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.
