There are four main types of California teaching credentials: ECE specialist instruction, multiple subjects, single subject, and education specialist. In this table you will find information about the grades/subjects you can teach and the requirements you must meet to obtain a preliminary credential. If you plan on staying at your current school site, we recommend asking your employer what type of teaching credential you will need.
| Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist | Multiple Subjects | Single Subject | Education Specialist (SPED) | |
What grades can I teach? | Early childhood (Preschool-3rd grade) | Elementary school (Kindergarten-5th grade) | Middle & high school (6th-12th grade) | Elementary, middle & high school (all grades) |
| What subjects can I teach? | All subjects in a self-contained classroom | All subjects in a self-contained classroom |
| Area of specialization listed on the credential:
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| What requirements must be met to obtain the preliminary credential? | 1. Obtain a BA degree 2. Verify subject matter competence (i.e. degree or coursework in early childhood education and/or child development) 3. Pass the RICA 4. Complete a commission-approved teacher preparation program | 1. Obtain a BA degree 2. Verify subject matter competence (i.e. CSET) 3. Pass the RICA 4. Complete a course or pass an exam on the US Constitution5. Complete a commission-approved teacher preparation program 6. Receive a formal recommendation from the program sponsor | 1. Obtain a BA degree 2. Verify subject matter competence (i.e. CSET) 3. Complete a course or pass an exam on the US Constitution 4. Complete a commission-approved teacher preparation program 5. Receive a formal recommendation from the program sponsor | 1. Obtain a BA degree 2. Verify subject matter competence (i.e. CSET)3. Pass the RICA 4. Complete a course or pass an exam on the US Constitution 5. Complete a commission-approved teacher preparation program |
As you get closer to earning your BA, Rivet School will help you identify the credential program that best meets your needs and interests and will set you up for success in your career. This includes supporting you with credential program applications and exam prep. Once you’ve enrolled in a teaching credential program, that program will support you with meeting the requirements to obtain a preliminary credential.
