How to Become a Teacher in California

Any discussion of how to become a teacher in California will differentiate between the requirements for those individuals wishing to pursue elementary education and those interested in secondary education, as the testing and program requirements differ between the two. Those with an interest in special education or professional education will also find that they have different requirements.

Those asking themselves "how do I become a teacher in California" will do well to begin by searching the State government's website to discover what the particulars of their requirements are. Contacting State colleges and universities can also provide individuals with information as to how to become a teacher in California, as well as options to help them complete their baccalaureate degree, teacher preparation program, and standardized testing.

How to become a teacher in California - traditional route for residents

All candidates must have earned at least a bachelor's degree. In order to earn a teacher certificate in California, resident candidates must also:

• Pass either the CBEST, CSET, or CSU examination, satisfying the basic skills requirement
• Complete either a multiple subject teacher preparation program, for aspiring elementary school teachers, or a single subject teacher preparation program, for aspiring middle school and high school students.
• Pass a subject matter proficiency examination
• Achieve a passing score on the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment
• Complete a comprehensive reading instruction course
• Complete a course on the United States Constitution
• Complete a course in foundational computer technology

How to become a teacher in CA - alternative route for residents

In researching how to become a teacher in California, residents will find there are a number of alternate routes open to them. Those with experience teaching at a private school, in the Peace Corps, or another setting may utilize the early completion intern program. Several alternate avenues are available for those wishing to work in bilingual education.

How to become a teacher in CA - for out-of-state teacher applicants

Those with teaching experience in another state considering the question "how do I become a teacher in California?" may apply their out-of-State bachelor's or master's degree to satisfy the program requirement. California will also accept the proficiency scores of another state's teacher certification exams. However, candidates must complete the necessary courses in computer technology, reading instruction, and Constitutional knowledge.

How do I become a teacher in California - necessary exams for residents

Teaching in California elementary and secondary schools requires the reading instruction competence assessment, a passing score on the necessary subject matter examination, and either the CBEST, CSET, or CSU examination. In regards to the subject matter examination, candidates have the option of instead completing a preparatory course.

What bachelor's degree do I need for teaching in California?

Any number of bachelor's degrees may qualify an individual to teach in California, so long as the degree is pertinent to the subject that candidates choose to teach. For example, an English teacher may hold a degree in American literature, English language, or English literature.

How do I renew my teacher certification in California?

In order to renew one's teacher certificate in California, a candidate need only submit a renewal application, which may be done online, and pay the required renewal fee.

Where do I go for more information about how to become a teacher in CA?

Websites such as those listed below will be able to provide prospective employees with detailed information about teaching in California:

• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

  California's official government website provides detailed listings of the basic requirements associated with becoming certified.

• Department of Education

  The State of California's Department of Education's website will help candidates for teaching certificates find contact information for people they may contact should they have questions, and help them register for the appropriate courses or tests.