Education Services Department

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CSU, Chico Teacher Credential Programs

What are the types of basic credentials?
Where can I get information on credential program options at CSU, Chico?
When are applications available and due?
How do I obtain an application to the Teacher Preparation Program?
Can I meet with an advisor?
Can you tell me a little about what I would be doing in the Teacher Preparation Program?

What are the types of basic credentials?
A Multiple Subject Credential authorizes the teacher to teach in a self-contained classroom, pre-school through adult. An example is the elementary school classroom in which the same teacher teaches a variety of subjects to the same group of students.

A Single Subject Credential authorizes the teacher to teach in departmentalized classrooms, pre-school through adult, in the subject area in which the teacher specialized, teaching that single subject only. Single subjects are taught primarily at the secondary level, but some subjects may be taught by a single subject teacher at the elementary level, e.g., art, music, and physical education.  

The Special Education Credentials have recently become basic credentials, which no longer require a prerequisite Multiple or Single Subject Credential. Credentials offered at CSU, Chico are the Mild-Moderate and Moderate-Severe Disabilities, and Specialist Credentials, Level l and Level ll.

Where can I get information on credential program options at CSU, Chico?
Visit the Focus on Teaching Information and Application at www.csuchico.edu/edsc/focus or you may attend a credential information workshop by contacting us at (530) 898-6391 or 1-(800) 982-2138.   Workshops are held weekly for your convenience.  

When are applications available and due?
Applications are available year-round at www.csuchico.edu/edsc/focus . Applications are due March 1 for fall or summer entry and September 15 for spring entry. Note: not all program options admit students in the spring or summer. Please use this Web site to assure you are completing the most recent version of the application.

How do I obtain an application to the Teacher Preparation Program?
Teacher Preparation Program applications are available online at www.csuchico.edu/edsc/focus . Graduate applications can be submitted online at www.csumentor.edu.

Can I meet with an advisor?
Yes, please see advising on this Web site.

Can you tell me a little about what I would be doing in the Teacher Preparation Program?
Each semester you will have both university coursework and public school experiences. In a nutshell, your program will be busy and intense, and very rewarding.