Admission Requirements

Credential Program Admission Requirements and Screening Procedures

A student who is admitted to the University is not automatically admitted to the Credentialing program. Candidates interested in the Masters in Education in addition to the credential must meet both sets of criteria. In order to qualify for admission to the Credential program, each candidate must meet the additional following requirements:

1. Complete a Bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
2. Complete Subject Matter Requirements:
   • Pass the state-administered California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST)
   • Take at least one subtest of the California State Exam (CSET) for the planned credential content area
3. Grade Point Average
   • A minimum 3.0 GPA for unconditional admission and a minimum 2.75 GPA for conditional admission
   • Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may be considered for admission with passage of all subsets of the CSET exam for the planned credential content area
4. Three Recommendations, completed on forms provided, from professional sources who can address your potential for success. Family members and friends may not complete recommendations
5. Complete a written literacy sample
6. Complete a satisfactory interview with an Education faculty member (special education candidates only)
7. Verification of Certificate of Clearance granted
8. Credential program acceptance

Program Requirements (56-57 units)

Credential Program

This program is designed for candidates seeking a preliminary dual Single Subject and Education Specialist in Mild/Moderate Disabilities credential. The Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject(s) named on the credential in departmentalized classes, such as those in most middle schools and high schools, in grades preschool, K-12, or in classes organized primarily for adults. Mild/Moderate Disabilities (M/M) includes specific learning disabilities; mild to moderate mental retardation; other health impairment; serious emotional disturbance; and authorizes service in grades K-12 and in classes organized primarily for adults through age 22. Candidates must complete all credential and State requirements to be eligible for a credential. Credential requirements can be obtained from the School of Education Credential Program Advisors.