Wondering whether a Single Subject Credential might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.
Phone: 530-898-6455
Email: credentials@csuchico.edu
Nurture your skills as a middle or high school teacher teaching an academic area you're passionate about. With a Single Subject Credential, you'll learn how to adapt curriculum for your area of expertise—ranging from agriculture and art to math and science—in ways that support all students' academic and personal success.
Under the guidance of experienced and dedicated faculty, you'll learn to create classroom experiences that support the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, cultural, and linguistic needs of students in today's dynamic classroom environments. The program follows a social-justice centered approach to education that empowers you to meet the new and emerging needs or learning modalities of tomorrow's students.
Combined with expertise usually obtained through a college degree, you'll be prepared to achieve subject matter authorization in agriculture, art, English, foundation level math or science, health, music, physical education, science (biology, chemistry, geoscience, physics), social science, and world languages (Spanish).
Inspire, Lead, Teach
Build the skills to lead a dynamic classroom in this two-semester program with coursework in lesson design, classroom management, educational psychology, and teaching diverse learners. Hands-on experiences and a full-time student-teaching placement provide real-world practice, ensuring you graduate ready to inspire middle or high school students.
Shape the Future, One Class at a Time
With a Single Subject Credential, you'll be ready to lead middle and high school classrooms in subjects you're passionate about. Whether teaching math, science, English, or the arts, you'll help students develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a love of learning. California's demand for credentialed teachers is high, offering strong job prospects statewide. Many graduates secure positions before completing the program, stepping into roles as subject-area teachers, curriculum specialists, and education leaders.
Beyond the classroom, this credential opens doors to careers in educational consulting, instructional design, and school administration. With your expertise in subject-specific instruction and a social justice-centered approach, you'll be prepared to make a lasting difference in the lives of students while shaping the future of education.
Fast Facts
$117k
Mid-Point Salary
Statewide for high school teachers
120
School Districts
Attend our Education Hiring Fair every spring
600
Hours
Teaching experience with highly qualified mentor teachers and university supervisors
- $117k
Mid-Point Salary
Statewide for high school teachers
- 120
School Districts
Attend our Education Hiring Fair every spring
- 600
Hours
Teaching experience with highly qualified mentor teachers and university supervisors
Real-world Teaching Placements
There is no better place to develop and hone your skills than a real-world classroom. With more than 50 North State school districts as partners for your placement, you can complete your experience hours in a diverse array of school settings.
California Teachers Association
Credential candidates are invited to California Teachers Association meetings and events that include non-paying members. Come learn more about the teaching profession, network with other educators, and get involved in the community!
Discover Stories and More
Chico State TodayApplication Information
All prospective students must complete two different applications for our Teaching Credential Programs through Cal State Apply and our Teaching Credential Application.
Application Period
- Fall: December–March 1
- Subject areas of Music, Art, and World Languages (Spanish) are fall start only. All other subject areas may start in fall or spring.
- Spring: July–October 1
Supplemental Materials
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Curriculum vitae
- Essay responses
- Subject Matter Requirement
Admission into programs leading to a credential does not guarantee that students will obtain a credential. Credentialing requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the CSU and requirements can change at any time. For example, credentialing requirements can include evidence of the right to work in the United States (e.g., Social Security number or taxpayer identification number) or successfully passing a criminal background check. Students are responsible for determining whether they can meet credentialing requirements.
Our credential analysts are here to help! For questions about the credential programs, please reach out by phone at 530-898-6455 or email to credentials@csuchico.edu.
The Single Subject Credential program is designed as a two-semester (one year) program where you will complete required coursework and internship credits. Students who need to complete prerequisite courses may need additional time to complete the program.
Yes! Please visit the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office for information on state and federal grants and loans, as well as scholarships specific to Chico State.
Specific information regarding these financial aid opportunities may be found on the website, or by scheduling an appointment with an advisor.
Related Programs
School of Education
Wondering whether a Single Subject Credential might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.
Phone: 530-898-6455
Email: credentials@csuchico.edu