Single Subject FAQ

  1. I just graduated with my four-year degree.  Do I have to reapply as a graduate in order to apply to the credential program?

  2. What courses can I take prior to being admitted into the program?

  3. May I work part-time or full-time while taking credential courses?

  4. Where do I apply for the credential program and when?

  5. If my GPA is below the requirement can I still apply to the program?

  6. What does “Exceptional Admission” mean?

  7. If I am observing in a classroom is a Certificate of Clearance required?

  8. Is the CSET exam the only way to meet my subject matter competency?

  9. Do I have to have subject matter competency complete before applying to the program?

  10. Do I need to pass 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 for program admission?

  1. 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 (single/multiple) 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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  2. What courses can I take prior to being admitted into the program?
    Courses to take are EDSE 400, EDBI 475 and EDBI 476. You must also complete an appropriate course or examination for US Constitution at CSUB or at another institution.
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  3. May I work part-time or full-time while taking credential courses?
    Yes. Courses are offered late afternoon and evening.
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  4. 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. Applications will be due 2 weeks after the date of the orientation.

    You can apply one quarter prior to starting the program. Application requirements need to be submitted by the deadline to be admitted.

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  5. 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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  6. 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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  7. If I am observing in a classroom is a Certificate of Clearance required?
    The California Teaching Commission (CTC) requires a Certificate of Clearance to work in any classroom. This is to check your background for any criminal activity. If you need step-by-step directions to obtain your Certificate of Clearance, you may pick up a form in the Credential’s Office or at the Application and Information session.
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  8. Is the CSET exam the only way to meet my subject matter competency?
    No. Subject matter competency can also be met thru coursework approved by the CTC.
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  9. Do I have to have subject matter competency complete before applying to the program?
    No. In order to be admitted into the single subject credential program you will need 80% subject matter competency. The only exception will be for the blended math student. FYI: You will need to be 100% subject matter competent before Full Day student teaching (EDSE 599) in Stage III.
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  10. Do I need to pass the CBEST exam before applying to the program?
    No. Passage of the CBEST exam is not required before applying to the program. Proof of passage will be required before Full Day Student Teaching (EDSE 599) in Stage III. A copy will be required for your file.
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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 course grades fall below a 3.0 GPA, you will be placed on academic probation, disqualified from the program and/or may 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 the collection of information from the courses you take in the program. Your instructor will indicate which assignment to upload into your Livetext portfolio.
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  13. What tests do I need to take in order to become a teacher?
    1. CBEST-www.cbest.nesinc.com
    2. Subject Matter Competency:
      Coursework 
      -OR-
      CSET: www.cbest.nesinc.com
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  14. May I have/apply for a credential in both single and multiple subjects?
    Yes, after completion of your single subject credential you may apply for a multiple subject credential by completing 4 units of coursework directly related to teaching in a self contained classroom (Art 302 or 2 C&I EDEL courses) and completing the multiple subject CSET.
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  15. 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. 80% subject matter competency
    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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