BASIC CREDENTIAL PROGRAMS -- 2000-01 Catalog
University Center for Teacher Education Information Center
Education Bldg. (02), Room 120
(805) 756-2583

The Basic Credential Programs consist of coursework and field experiences, including student teaching, required to obtain the Preliminary and Professional Clear Multiple and Single Subject teaching credentials in California. Guidelines for all credentials are established by California's Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC), and are subject to change. Cal Poly is authorized by the CCTC to prepare candidates and recommend for the following Basic credentials.

The teaching credential programs typically take four or five quarters to complete depending on completed prerequisites. Applications are accepted during specific periods at the beginning of each Fall, Winter and Spring quarters (for these dates contact the University Center for Teacher Education Services Center). Detailed information about other requirements can be found in the credential handbooks, "The Guide to the Multiple Subject, CLAD/BCLAD Credential Program" and "Single Subject Teaching Credential Handbook," which are available at the Services Center and at El Corral Bookstore. Further information, requirements and procedures for entering a particular credential program may be obtained from the appropriate credential program adviser.

Candidates for the Single Subject teaching credential in Agriculture or the Agricultural Specialist credential complete their preparation program through the Agricultural Education and Communication Department at Cal Poly and should communicate with the department head for further information or advisement (Dr. Glen Casey, at 756-2401).

The requirements for admission to Cal Poly to pursue a Multiple Subject credential differ slightly from those for the Single Subject credential. Details concerning specific requirements are available from the appropriate adviser and in the advisement handbook.

Admission to the university does not guarantee admission to either teacher education program.

CLAD and BCLAD Emphases (Multiple Subject only)

Cal Poly's Crosscultural Language and Academic Development (CLAD) and Bilingual Crosscultural Language and Academic Development (BCLAD) emphasis programs stress knowledge of language structure acquisition and development; methodologies for English language development and specially designed content instruction delivered in English; and general cultural concepts relevant to education.

Additionally, BCLAD is designed to prepare teachers for bilingual classrooms. The BCLAD emphasis focuses on knowledge of bilingual teaching methodologies, the Latino culture, and proficiency in Spanish.

To enter the credential program and to identify additional requirements that must be completed prior to beginning student teaching, a "STEP I" application is to be submitted at least two quarters before student teaching (not including summer quarter). For most credential candidates this is done upon completion of the baccalaureate degree or during the first quarter of postbaccalaureate studies. Check with your credential program adviser and the credential handbook to be sure that all requirements are completed.

Multiple Subjects 2.75

Single Subjects
Agriculture 2.58
English (includes Speech Communication) 2.84
Home Economics (includes Child Development) 2.78
Mathematics 2.84
Physical Education 2.72
Science: Biological Sciences 2.81
Science: Chemistry and Physics) 2.78
Science: Chemistry and Physics) 2.78
Social Sciences (includes History and Political Science) 3.00

Students may enter the credential program as an undergraduate (under certain conditions) or as a postbaccalaureate candidate. The minimum GPA which must be maintained each quarter after admission to the program for undergraduate candidates is the same as their required admission GPA (see above table).

Postbaccalaureate candidates must maintain a 3.00 quarterly GPA. The required grade point averages must be maintained in both the professional education coursework (see Handbook for specific courses) and all other coursework attempted after admission to the credential program.

• Completion of an approved early field experience;
• A Certificate of Clearance;
• Completing a CCTC approved academic program of coursework in the single subject area, OR passing appropriate examinations for the subject matter;
• Letter of recommendation;
• A professional aptitude interview with adviser;
• Evidence of competency in reading, writing and speaking English;
• Evidence of freedom from rubella and tuberculosis;
• Evidence of mathematics competency (Multiple Subject candidates only).

Students must complete all Step I requirements. Application for student teaching assignments must be made by Monday of the fourth week of the quarter before one plans to student teach. Student teaching consists of two consecutive quarters in public school classrooms, under the supervision of a cooperating teacher and a university supervisor. Applicants must pass CBEST prior to receiving a student teaching assignment.

Multiple Subject student teaching consists of two full-time (all day) four days a week experiences with the student teacher gradually assuming greater responsibility for the class.

Single Subject student teaching involves a six unit and a twelve unit assignment. Six unit student teaching consists of a part-time (half day) experience in the classroom observing and teaching. Twelve unit student teaching consists of a full-time all day experience with the student teacher gradually assuming responsibility for the class.

Candidates for the California Multiple or Single Subject Teaching Credential must submit an "Application for Credential Authorizing Public School Service" (form 41-4) and credential fee.

Upon completion of Cal Poly's Teaching Credential Program (Multiple or Single Subject), each student must apply for his or her Preliminary or Professional Clear Credential. These applications are available through the University Center for Teacher Education Services Center and may be submitted as early as two weeks prior to completing the final credential requirements. See the credential handbooks for more information.

To qualify for the Professional Clear Multiple or Single Subject credential candidates must complete the following requirements beyond the Preliminary credential requirements. This is also referred to as the Fifth Year of Study.

• 45 quarter units of adviser approved postbaccalaureate coursework;
• coursework in Health Education. And verification of completion of a training program in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (American Red Cross Community CPR or American Heart Association "Heart Saver");
• coursework in Special Education, including Mainstreaming;
• coursework in Computer Education, and
• recommendation from a California college or university with a CCTC approved Teacher Preparation Program.