MSTI Support for Teachers

Interested in adding a Math or Science Content Area or Authorization to your Credential?

How about a Computer Science Authorization?

Our MSTI program can help local area, current teachers to add math or science content or authorizations. Some financial support for these is available. More information can be found below, and you may contact the Chico MSTI Team email with questions. 

Foundational Level Single Subject Teaching Credential for Math (FLM) and Science (FLGS) MSTI Support:

The first step in this process is for you to verify subject-matter competence which we will support through the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET).

You can view the CSET information page and register for tests. It can be the case that you need to pay for the exam in order to see the available testing appointments. Prepare to schedule a test out a couple months if needed and patience will be necessary during this time.

You can put in the FLM or FLGS to identify the CSET(s) you will need to pass. There are two tests for mathematics (211 and 212), and one for science (215). The pages will offer you links to preparation materials, and there are more options for preparation available on a partner CSU campus website.(opens in new window)

Once you pass the appropriate CSET(s), then you are ready for the next step.
• If you already have a single subject credential, you are ready to apply through the CTC to add the credential and our Chico State Credential Advisor will assist with this process.

• If you are multiple subject credential then you will need to take a secondary pedagogy course to meet the credential requirements. These courses are offered regularly through Chico State Extension courses and you will be referred to an advisor once you have passed the appropriate CSET(s).

The final requirement of this opportunity is that you apply for the credential through our Chico State Credential Office so that we can track the application and confirm you have received the authorization. The CSET and CTC Application fees will also be reimburse to you after you apply.

Computer Science Authorization MSTI Support:

As the CA Department of Education (CDE) and the CA Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) set in place the requirements for the new Computer Science Content Standards, they are behind in rolling out the authorizations and credentials for teaching this content. The CDE site for the Computer Science Education details and Content Standards.

At this time, there are only introductory and specific supplementary authorizations available to add to current credential. And, there are not yet equivalent CA Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSETs) available to determine subject matter competency in computer science. This means that the only current pathway to getting the authorizations is through coursework, and it is somewhat extensive.

Please see the current Supplementary Authorization Guideline Book updated December 2019. Pages 5 and 9 specifically detail the topics required for the authorizations. We have been targeting the specific supplementary authorization, which requires either previous coursework that can be identified through transcripts, or the entering one of many current programs set up to get teachers the coursework necessary to meet the authorizations. This will typically be either 20 units of lower division courses, or 10 units of upper division computer science courses, and it can take between 12-16 months to complete.

Chico State is currently in the process of developing our own specific authorization program to be offered through Chico State Continuing Education and that will be ready for a first cohort by late spring 2021 (possibly March). You can plan to be part of that program if the timing works for you. This would be a set of courses you can take Spring 2021 through Summer 2022 to complete the units required for the CS Authorization.

The final requirement of this opportunity is that you apply for the credential through our Chico State Credential Office so that we can track the application and confirm you have received the authorization. The CTC Application fees will also be reimburse to you after you apply.