Types of Teaching Credentials in California

Elementary (Authorizes teaching of all subjects in a self-contained classroom in grades preschool, kindergarten-12, or in classes organized primarily for adults.)

Elementary school teachers typically facilitate learning for children from kindergarten to eighth grade in California.

Requirements: Multiple Subject Credential

Secondary (Authorizes teaching specific subject(s) in departmentalized classes, typically grades 7-12.)

California high school teachers engage students in the ninth to twelfth grade in many single subject academic areas like science, mathematics, and English.

Requirements: Single Subject Credential

Special Education (Special Needs)

A special education teacher instructs students with disabilities who have different intensity of needs in various instructional settings.

Requirements: Special Education Credential

Check with the Commission on Teacher Credentialing about the Career Technical Education Teaching Credential Child Development Permits, and other education-related credentials.