Social Science Pre-Credential Option

The History Department 's Social Science Pre-Credential Option constitutes a major, one of the nine basic graduation requirements that all students must meet in order to obtain a bachelor's degree from CSU, Chico. It is closely aligned with the history-social science curriculum, spelled out in the California History-Social Science Content Standards(opens in new window), that middle and high school teachers are required to teach. Approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing(opens in new window), the History Department 's Social Science Pre-Credential Option provides the preparation necessary for entry into a single subject credential program, completion of which is required to qualify for a California secondary teaching credential. Students who wish to earn a credential at CSU, Chico must also complete courses that are prerequisites for the credential program, and should therefore plan their undergraduate coursework carefully. Pre-Credential programs at other institutions have different prerequisites; students planning on obtaining credentials on other campuses should check with those programs regarding prerequisites.

Students in the Social Science Pre-Credential Option are strongly advised to keep copies of all work submitted in history and social science classes, and retain the graded originals once they are returned: in order to be considered for certification as subject matter competent, you will be required in HIST 495 to submit a portfolio of your best work.

Two recent reports contain much useful information about career opportunities in California for prospective middle and high school teachers.