Paths to a Credential and Basic Requirements

Here is a diagram of the different paths to a teaching credential in California. Find the right program.

Teaching credential path diagram

To earn a California teaching credential these basic requirements must be met:

Bachelor's Degree or higher from a regionally accredited university
Teacher preparation program (credential program, including student teaching)
Basic Skills Requirement
Developing English Language Skills (reading instruction course)
U.S. Constitution course*
Subject matter competency (CSET or Subject matter program )
Computer technology course
RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment for multiple subject and education specialist credential)

*For multiple-subject and single-subject credential only

Last Updated: February 28, 2011