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EARN YOUR TEACHING
CREDENTIAL IN ONE YEAR

With full-time study and verified clinical practice.

 
UC Merced Extension Education Programs - Teacher Preparation Program

Ready to become a PreK-12 teacher?

Our UC Merced Division of Professional and Continuing Education's Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in the classroom.

Here's what our program offers:

  • Expert-Designed Curriculum: Learn from experienced educators who will teach you essential skills like pedagogy, classroom management, and lesson planning
  • Real-World Experience: Gain hands-on classroom experience through clinical placements, where you'll be mentored by a veteran teacher
  • Comprehensive Support: We provide dedicated seminars and support to help you prepare for and pass the CSET and CalTPA exams
  • Flexible Learning: Choose between our convenient in-person or online program formats to fit your schedule

Teaching is a highly rewarding and in-demand career, and our goal is to help you become a successful and culturally responsive educator. We're committed to your success as you begin your journey into this fulfilling profession.

Important updates for the Teacher Preparation Program prospective candidates

regarding Basic Skills and Subject Matter Requirements!

Basic Skills Requirement:

On June 29, 2024, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 153 (Chap. 38, Stats 2024). This budget trailer bill addresses multiple topics related to education. Included in this new law, among other provisions, is the allowance of a candidate’s bachelor’s degree to meet the Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) for most credentials. Because this is a budget bill, its provisions take effect immediately. 

Subject Matter Requirement:
The approved measure expands the options available to aspiring teachers by allowing the approved preparation program to accept subject-relevant coursework that meets or exceeds the Commission’s subject matter requirements. 
The measure additionally allows incoming teachers to meet the requirement if they have completed an academic major in the subject they will teach. 

PROGRAM TRACKS

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Intern Track

INTERN TRACK OPTION
If you are already in a paid K12 teaching role on a Provisional Internship Permit (PIP) or Short Term Staff Permit (STSP), this track may apply. 

 

UC Merced Undergraduate

UC MERCED NSED MINOR
As an undergraduate, the NSED Minor allows you to complete the credential program after graduating in less time while saving on tuition. You can major in any subject!

 

New to teaching

NEW TO TEACHING (TRADITIONAL)
If you hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and are either a recent graduate or considering a career change, the Traditional Track is just right for you.

 

I WANT TO TEACH:
 

Elementary School K-5

ELEMENTARY GRADES TK-8
Teaching in the early elementary years provides an opportunity to share the "firsts" in their academic experience. The later ages are just as impactful as they mature and develop deeper interests under your guidance.
 

Science 6-12

SCIENCE 6-12
You will cultivate scientific ability by developing a student's knowledge base to formulate experiments, explain their reasoning, and apply scientific knowledge. You might inspire the next astronaut, physicist, or forensic scientist!

 

English 6-12

ENGLISH 6-12
Developing critical literacy skills are essential for educational and professional success. You will help teach students that words are powerful, and they can positively change the world.
 

Social Sciences

HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE 6-12
Inspiring an interest in history will help students to understand how our current societies came to be through historical change. Students develop abilities to access evidence and conflicting interpretations. These skills are applicable through all phases of life, from personal to professional.

 

Mathematics 6-12

MATHEMATICS 6-12
You will learn how to teach students to enjoy, understand, and succeed in mathematics. Proficiency in math helps develop abstract thinking and problem solving and is a necessary skill in all aspects of life. 
 

Young student in class.

BILINGUAL AUTHORIZATION - SPANISH (FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE BCLAD)
If you currently hold a Multiple Subject, Single Subject, or Education Specialist Credential you can apply for the Bilingual Authorization in Spanish. Apply today!

 

 

 

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

Additional information is available by visiting the University of California | Office of the President and the California Department of Education.

Accreditation

The Teacher Preparation Program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

On August 6, 2021, The Commission on Teacher Credentialing granted full institutional approval to the University of California, Merced.