Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What courses do I take prior to being admitted into the program?
  2. I taught for several years on an emergency permit. Will my classroom experience count towards the early field experience course?
  3. I just graduated with my four-year degree. Do I have to reapply as a graduate in order to apply to the credential program?
  4. May I work part-time or full-time while taking credential courses?
  5. Where do I apply for the credential program and when?
  6. If my GPA is below the requirement, can I still apply to the program?
  7. What does "Exceptional Admission" mean?
  8. Why do I have to get a Certificate of Clearance if I will just be observing in the classroom? Where do I get the clearance from?
  9. Do I have to take the CBEST exam before applying to the program?
  10. Why do I have to maintain a GPA of 3.0 for all credential coursework?
  11. What is LiveText and does it apply to me?
  12. What tests do I need to take in order to become a teacher?
  13. May I have/apply for a credential in both single and multiple subjects?
  14. What are the initial eligibility requirements?
  1. What courses do I take prior to being admitted into the program?
    Courses to take are EDEL 240, EDBI 475 and CTAP Level 1 Technology Proficiency – Take LBST 390 or EDCI 579 or provide proof of completion. Complete an appropriate course or examination for US Constitution at CSUB or at another institution.
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  2. I taught for several years on an emergency permit. Will my classroom experience count towards the early field experience course?
    Yes! Contact the credential office and request a waiver application for EDEL 240.
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  3. I just graduated with my four-year degree. Do I have to reapply as a graduate in order to apply to the credential program?
    Yes, If you are not currently a student at CSUB or if you are a graduating senior, you must apply to the University for Admission as a post-baccalaureate student.

    When completing the application, be sure to indicate that your objective is "credential". Specify your program in the appropriate place on the university application. Admission to the University does not constitute admission to the program. A separate application is required for admission into the credential programs. Please apply to the university at www.csumentor.edu

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  4. May I work part-time or full-time while taking credential courses?
    Yes. Courses are offered late afternoon and evening.
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  5. Where do I apply for the credential program and when?
    You must attend an Application Orientation Session prior to being admitted. These sessions are held at the beginning of each quarter. Contact the credentials office at 661/654-2484 (Bakersfield) or 661/952-5080 (Antelope Valley) for the exact date and time. Application packets will be available. Applications will be due 2 weeks after orientation. Student must apply one quarter prior to starting the program. Application requirements must be complete by the deadline to be admitted.
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  6. If my GPA is below the requirement, can I still apply to the program?
    Yes, you will be required to complete an Exceptional Admitted request form, which is included in the application packet.
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    Please note that applying under this rule does not guarantee admission to the program.

  7. What does "Exceptional Admission" mean?
    Exceptional Admission means that you do not meet the minimum requirements for admission to the program.
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  8. Why do I have to get a Certificate of Clearance if I will just be observing in the classroom?
    Where do I get the clearance from? Certificate of Clearances are required by the California Commission On Teaching Credentials (CTC), to check your background for any criminal activity. A live scan is not a fingerprint clearance. We do not make packets any longer. Students are given instructions to go online and print three copies of the live scan form and form 41-4.
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  9. Do I have to take the CBEST exam before applying to the program?
    All applicants must take the CBEST test before applying to the program. Proof of passing CBEST must be submitted at the time of application to Full Day Student Teaching (please provide copies) for more information, visit the CBEST website at www.cbest.nesinc.com
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  10. Why do I have to maintain a GPA of 3.0 for all credential coursework?
    Executive Order 547, Title 5, Section 41101 states, ".recommendation for a credential is dependent upon the candidate’s completion of all credential requirements… and is dependent upon the student maintaining a minimum grade point average (3.0) in all professional education courses attempted after entry to the program."

    If your education GPA falls below 3.0, you will be placed on academic probation, disqualified from the program and/or will not be recommended for a credential. If you find yourself in this position, you should contact your program director/coordinator.

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  11. What is LiveText and does it apply to me?
    Yes, Live Text is software for you to collect information from the courses you will take through out the program. Once completed with the course work you will be instructed to compile a portfolio using this information.
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  12. What tests do I need to take in order to become a teacher?
    CBEST- Basic Skills Exam CSET- Subject Matter Competency RICA- Reading Assessment
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  13. May I have/apply for a credential in both single and multiple subjects?
    Yes, after completion of your M.S. program, there is one course in the Single Subject program (EDSE 405 special method in subject area) and passage of the single subject CSET in the same subject area.
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  14. What are the initial eligibility requirements?
    1. Course Prerequisites
    2. Attend Information and Application Meeting
    3. Minimum GPA of 2.67 overall or 2.75 last 90 quarter units
    4. Passage of the CSET Exam, subtests I, II & III
    5. Proof that you have taken the CBEST
    6. Certificate of Clearance or Substitute /Emergency permit
    7. Tuberculin Clearance(not over four years old)
    8. Two Candidate Evaluations(included with the application)
    9. Oral Interview
    10. Written Essay
    11. Professional Liability Insurance(copy of receipt)
    12. Completed application packet