Multiple Subject 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. If I am observing in the classroom is a Certificate of Clearance required?

  9. Do I have to take the CSET exam before applying to the program?

  10. Do I have to take the CBEST exam before applying to the program?

  11. Why do I have to maintain a GPA of 3.0 for all credential coursework?

  12. What is Live Text and does it apply to me?

  13. What tests do I need to take in order to become a teacher?

  14. May I apply for a credential in both single and multiple subjects?

  15. What are the initial eligibility requirements?

  1. What courses can I take prior to being admitted into the program?
    Courses to take are EDEL 240, EDBI 475, CTAP Level 1 Technology Proficiency (LBST 290, LBST 390, or EDCI 579 or provide proof of completion), and complete an appropriate course or examination for US Constitution.
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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 a current CSUB student or a new student 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 and Information Session prior to being admitted. Contact the credentials office at 661/654-2110 (Bakersfield) or 661/952-5080 (Antelope Valley) for the exact date and time. Application packets will be available at the Application and Information Session and will be due 2 weeks after orientation.

    Applications are due two weeks after the Application and Information session.

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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 Admit Application which will be available at the Application and Information Session or you can pick one up at the credentials office.

    Please note that applying under this rule does not guarantee admission to the program.

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  7. What does “Exceptional Admission” mean?
    Exceptional Admission means that your GPA is below the requirement but the credential program will allow you admittance to begin courses and raise the GPA to the required standards.
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  8. If I am observing in the classroom is a Certificate of Clearance required?
    Yes, the California Teaching Commission (CTC) requires a Certificate of Clearance to be in any classroom. If you need step-by-step directions you may pick up a form in the Credential’s Office or at the Application and Information session.
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  9. Do I have to take the CSET exam before applying to the program?
    Yes, you must pass ALL 3 subtests of the CSET exam before admittance into the program. The only exception will be for IBEST and CAFS Fast Track students. For more information, visit the CSET website at www.cset.nesinc.com
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  10. Do I have to take the CBEST exam before applying to the program?
    No, you do note need to take the CBEST exam before applying to the program. Proof of passage will be required before Full Day Student Teaching. A copy will be required for your file. For more information, visit the CBEST website at www.cbest.nesinc.com
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  11. 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 credential courses fall below a 3.0 GPA, 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 the Department Chair.

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  12. What is Live Text 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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  13. 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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  14. May I apply for a credential in both single and multiple subjects?
    Yes, after completion of your multiple subject credential you may apply for a single subject credential by taking one course in the single subject program (EDSE 505 special method in subject area) and completing subject matter competency (by coursework or passage of CSET in subject area).
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  15. What are the initial eligibility requirements?
    1. Course Prerequisites
    2. Attend Application and Information Session
    3. Minimum GPA of 2.67 overall or 2.75 last 90 quarter units
    4. Passage of the CSET Exam, subtests I, II & III (exception for IBEST and CAFS Fast track students ONLY)
    5. Registered for CBEST
    6. Certificate of Clearance or Substitute permit
    7. Tuberculin Clearance (within four years)
    8. Group Interview
    9. Written Essay
    10. Professional Liability Insurance(copy of receipt)
    11. Completed application packet
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