If you’re an aspiring educator looking to earn your teaching credential online in California, you’re in the right place. California offers flexible, online certification pathways—ideal for local residents and internationally educated professionals. This guide walks you through earning a teaching credential online, outlines approved programs, and highlights special considerations for foreign-educated teachers.
Steps to Earning a California Teaching Credential Online
California’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) manages the credentialing process. Below is a step-by-step overview:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
You must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. The degree doesn’t need to be in education, but you must demonstrate subject matter competence.
2. Complete a CTC-Approved Teacher Preparation Program
Enroll in a CTC-approved educator preparation program. Many of these are available fully online and include coursework on pedagogy, classroom management, and supervised teaching.
3. Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement
You must show proficiency in reading, writing, and math. This can be demonstrated through:
- CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test)
- SAT or ACT scores
- Other CTC-approved alternatives
4. Demonstrate Subject Matter Competence
Single Subject Credential: Pass the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) in your chosen subject.
Multiple Subject Credential: Pass the CSET: Multiple Subjects exam.
5. Obtain a Certificate of Clearance
This background check includes fingerprinting and is required before beginning any student teaching.
6. Pass the RICA (if applicable)
The Reading Instruction Competence Assessment is required for Multiple Subject and Education Specialist credentials.
7. Apply for the Preliminary Credential
After completing all requirements, you can apply through the CTC for a Preliminary Teaching Credential.
8. Complete an Induction Program
You must complete a two-year CTC-approved induction program within five years to upgrade to a Clear Credential.
Top Online Teacher Preparation Programs in California
| Program | Credential(s) Offered | Duration | Features |
| CalStateTEACH | Multiple Subject | Varies | Fully online, flexible scheduling |
| National University | Multiple & Single Subject | Varies | Online coursework with in-person fieldwork |
| Claremont Graduate University (CGU) | Multiple & Single Subject | 12–18 months | Online option with M.A. in Education available |
Guidance for Internationally Educated Teachers
If your degree was earned outside the U.S., here’s what you need to know:
1. Credential Evaluation
You must have your academic credentials evaluated by a CTC-recognized agency. ACEI, a charter member of the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE), provides course-by-course evaluations accepted for California licensure.
2. English Language Proficiency
If your studies were not conducted in English, you may be required to demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL, IELTS, or similar exams.
3. Meet California-Specific Requirements
Even with international experience, you must complete a California-approved teacher preparation program and pass all required exams.
Quick Reference: Credential Types
| Credential Type | Description |
| Multiple Subject | For teaching all subjects in a self-contained classroom (typically K–6) |
| Single Subject | For teaching one subject in middle/high school settings |
| Education Specialist | For teaching students with disabilities in specialized environments |
Final Thoughts
California provides accessible and respected online options for becoming a credentialed teacher. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional with an international background, following these steps can help you confidently begin your teaching career.
Visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for official resources.
If you need your academic credentials evaluated, ACEI offers expert evaluations accepted by California licensing boards and educator programs.
