Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential On-Campus
Pacific Oaks Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential on-campus curriculum is based on a constructivist framework that is responsive to multiple sources of diversity in the education of children. By engaging in supervised learning experiences, students in this Teaching Credentialing program in California learn about essential principles of pedagogy and child development. Throughout the program, students will take part in self-reflection, collaboration with others, and problem-solving. Please note: All School of Education programs are taught in eight-week sessions: Fall I and II, Spring I and II, Summer 1 and II. All on-campus courses are “blended,” with 30 hours of face-to-face/in class instruction and 15 hours of online instruction.
At Pacific Oaks College, this CCTC-guided postgraduate program can be completed on campus in Pasadena or fully online, with 37 credits of coursework and supervised fieldwork, taught in eight-week sessions across three terms.
California issued 17,328 new teaching credentials in the 2023–24 academic year, an 18.2% increase over the prior year, the first such surge since the pandemic, and the state still reports more than 32,000 teachers currently working outside their credentialed subject area. The Multiple Subject credential is one of the most in-demand pathways into California classrooms.
Other Credentials and Continuing Learning Programs
- B.A. Early Childhood Education: Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
- B.A. Early Childhood Education: Dual Credential
- M.A. Education: Preliminary Education Specialist Teaching Credential
- M.A. Education: Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
- Preliminary Education Specialist Teaching Credential
- Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Licensure
The California Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential qualifies candidates to teach in preschool, K-12, or in classes organized primarily for adults in a self-contained classroom. For more information on the credentialing process, please visit the Pacific Oaks Credentials Office web page.
Sample Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential Courses
ED 530: Methods of Teaching Language and Literacy in a Diverse Classroom
ED 530 will examine the historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening to K to 12th grade students in a diverse classroom that will consist of a full range of learners. Emphasis will be on incorporating the California Frameworks and Standards into both general and special education programs that also will draw on the children’s real-life experiences and knowledge about language. In a language environment that parallels that of a dynamic elementary school classroom, candidates will explore reading and language arts through readings, discussions, activities, observations, and reflection. The unique needs of English language learners and students with special needs will be addressed through learning how to organize and manage differentiated reading instruction. Key topics will include the reading process, phonemic awareness and phonics, elements of a balanced reading program including guided reading the writing process, lesson planning, inclusion, student assessments, children’s literature, enrichment versus deficit models of schooling, and an analysis of classroom discourse. Candidates will become skillful at implementing curriculum, instruction, assessment, and management strategies that relate to integrating reading and language arts across the content areas.
ED 549: Contemporary Methodologies in Teaching Mathematics
This course focuses on the advanced theoretical and practical aspects of teaching mathematics to students in a diverse classroom. In keeping with the cognitive theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, brain research, and Gardner, emphasis will be placed on the implications of a constructivist theory in terms of the role of the teacher, the classroom environment and student learning. This methodology course addresses the planning of content-specific instruction and delivery of content consistent with state adopted (K-8) mathematics standards and the language needs of all learners. The interrelated components of a balanced program of mathematics and the fostering of positive attitudes toward mathematics are stressed. This course includes instruction in how to model concepts and teach learners to solve problems using multiple strategies and to anticipate, recognize and clarify mathematical misunderstandings that are common among (K-8) learners. Modifications for diverse learners and learners with exceptionalities are researched and applied through 15 hours of fieldwork experience. Technology for teaching and learning is integrated in the course.
Admissions Requirements
- Completed Application for Admission
- Application fee
- Bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Work or Volunteer Experience Summary
- Personal statement
- Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement (e.g., CBEST)
- Proof of registration or payment for the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET: Multiple Subjects; i.e., Subtests I, II, and III) with test dates in the first six months of initial enrollment is due by the end the second term from the start date of the program.
- Letter of recommendation required for students whose cumulative GPA is below 2.5
- Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of Pacific Oaks College
California Teaching Credential Requirements
Basic Skills Requirement (BSR)
Applicants must satisfy the California Basic Skills Requirement (BRS) before being recommended for the credential. Historically, candidates met this through the CBEST examination. Senate Bill 153 (2024) expanded BSR pathways: Candidates whose bachelor’s degree is directly credential-related may now use their degree to satisfy the BSR, in addition to the examination route. Pacific Oaks enrollment counselors can advise which pathway applies to your specific academic background.
Subject Matter Competency
Multiple Subject credential candidates must demonstrate subject matter competency through one of two routes: passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET: Multiple Subjects, Subtests I, II, and III) or completing a CTC-approved subject matter program. Assembly Bill 130 (2021) also allows candidates to use qualifying coursework to satisfy this requirement. Pacific Oaks requires proof of CSET registration or payment, with test dates scheduled within the first six months of enrollment, due by the end of the second term.
Teacher Performance Assessment (CalTPA)
All Preliminary Multiple Subject candidates are required to complete the California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA), a four-cycle assessment embedded in fieldwork and supervised teaching. Pacific Oaks administers the CalTPA through its credential programs. For detailed administration policies, refer to our Credentials Office page.
Fieldwork and Student Teaching
Supervised fieldwork in California classrooms is embedded throughout the program and is required for credential recommendation regardless of whether you complete coursework online or on campus.
Career Outcomes for Multiple Subject Teaching Credential Holders
The California Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential opens pathways to teach in California’s K–12 public and private schools, including Transitional Kindergarten classrooms.
The following salary data is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program, May 2024.
- Elementary School Teacher: $62,340 median annual salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Kindergarten Teacher: $61,430 median annual salary (BLS, May 2024)
- High School Teacher: $64,580 median annual salary (BLS, May 2024)
Pacific Oaks College prepares you to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible career options and salaries within the field of Education associated with this on-campus credentialing program.
Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to the Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program*. Pacific Oaks College is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.
*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions counselor.
What is the California Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?
The Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential is issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and authorizes its holder to teach in a self-contained classroom setting, meaning one teacher is responsible for all subject areas for a single group of students.
This structure is standard in Transitional Kindergarten through eighth8th-grade classrooms, and the credential also extends authorization through grade 12 in certain contexts.
"Preliminary" refers to the first tier of California's two-tier credential system. The preliminary credential is valid for up to five years, during which the holder must complete the requirements for a Clear (Level II) credential through an approved California Induction program.
Pacific Oaks candidates receive guidance on their induction pathway during their program.
What subjects can you teach with a Multiple Subject Credential?
A Multiple Subject credential authorizes instruction across all core subject areas, including English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, visual and performing arts, and physical education.
It is distinct from a Single Subject credential, which authorizes teaching one specific subject in a departmentalized classroom, typically at the middle or high school level.
Online vs. On-Campus: How is the program structured?
Pacific Oaks offers this credential program in two formats. The on-campus program at the Pasadena campus uses a blended model with, 30 hours of face-to-face instruction and 15 hours of online instruction per course, delivered in eight-week sessions (Fall I and II, Spring I and II, Summer I and II).
The online program follows the same CTC-approved curriculum and eight-week session schedule, with fieldwork requirements completed in California classrooms regardless of delivery format.
What is the difference between a Preliminary and a Clear Teaching Credential in California?
The Preliminary (Level I) credential is the first credential issued to candidates who complete a CTC-approved preparation program. It is valid for up to five years. During that window, credential holders must complete a California Induction program, a site-based mentoring and professional development program, to earn the Clear (Level II) credential, which does not expire as long as renewal requirements are met.
The Pacific Oaks Preliminary Multiple Subject program prepares candidates to earn and begin their preliminary credential; induction is completed after entering the classroom.
Can I complete the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program fully online?
Yes. Pacific Oaks offers the Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential in a fully online format. All coursework is delivered online, but fieldwork and student teaching hours must be completed in California classrooms.
The online program follows the same CTC-approved curriculum as the on-campus program and is taught in eight-week sessions.
What exams do I need to pass to earn a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?
Candidates must satisfy three requirements through examination or approved alternatives:
- the Basic Skills Requirement, historically met through the CBEST, though SB 153 (2024) expanded qualification pathways;
- subject matter competency, most commonly through the CSET: Multiple Subjects (Subtests I, II, and III); and
- the California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA), a four-part embedded assessment completed during the program.
Your Pacific Oaks admissions counselor can advise which pathway applies to your situation.
Does the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential allow me to teach Transitional Kindergarten?
A valid Preliminary or Clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential does authorize you to teach Transitional Kindergarten (TK) in California public schools. However, teachers first assigned to a TK classroom after July 1, 2015, must also complete at least 24 semester units of early childhood education or child development coursework, per California Education Code Section 48000(g).
Pacific Oaks offers a separate Online Transitional Kindergarten Certificate designed for credentialed teachers to meet this additional requirement.
How long does it take to complete the Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential at Pacific Oaks?
The program is 37 credits, delivered in eight-week sessions. Full-time students typically complete the program in four to five sessions (approximately two years), though pacing depends on individual course load and fieldwork scheduling.
Pacific Oaks offers sessions in Fall I and II, Spring I and II, and Summer I and II, which allows some flexibility in pacing.
What are the admission requirements for the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program?
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an institutionally accredited institution and submit official transcripts, a completed application and fee, a work or volunteer experience summary, a personal statement, and proof of CBEST passage or registration (or equivalent BSR documentation).
Applicants with a cumulative GPA below 2.5 must submit a letter of recommendation. CSET registration or proof of payment, with test dates in the first six months of enrollment, is required by the end of the second term.
Is the Pacific Oaks Multiple Subject Teaching Credential approved by the CTC?
Yes. Pacific Oaks College's School of Education credential programs are approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
The curriculum meets CTC requirements for the California Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. Pacific Oaks has held WSCUC (WASC Senior College and University Commission) accreditation since 1959.
What is the cost of the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program?
Tuition information is available through Pacific Oaks Admissions. For current tuition and fee schedules, contact Admissions directly or visit the Pacific Oaks financial aid information page. California residents may be eligible for state-funded teacher credentialing grants and residency program funding through the CTC's teacher workforce investment programs.