The program was created for those who wish to teach in middle and high schools (grades 6th-12th). Until this approval, CSUMB could only offer multiple subject credentials, which are intended for elementary and middle school teachers (grades K-8th). 

CSUMB will prepare teachers for credentials in grades 6-12

• English,
• Math,
• Science,
• Social Sciences
• Foreign Language

The traditional version of the single subject program offers opportunities for students to gain classroom experience through student teaching under the supervision of a master teacher.  CSUMB’s Single Subject Teaching Internship Program, in conjunction with the Monterey County Office of Education, gives students the opportunity to earn their credential while teaching.  This option is directed toward students who have had significant experience teaching in schools prior to enrolling in the program.  "In the internship program, students are hired by local districts and assume full responsibility for teaching," said Dr. Bob Hughes, Coordinator of the internship program at CSUMB.  Once a student qualifies to enter the Single Subject program and is hired, a teacher from that school will be selected as a mentor to help students through their internship experience. 

This will "meet the needs of current teachers who seek to become fully credentialed," stated Carter. 
Applicants are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.67, and to have taken the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test).  They also must show subject matter competency by passing each of the qualifying examinations in their field.  Students may only be exempted from this requirement if they have completed a subject matter preparation program that has been approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. 

There is a "pre-professional phase" of the program, which will help students fulfill prerequisites, gain experience and complete necessary testing before beginning the actual credentialing process in the professional phase of the program.  Students have entered and are taking preprofessional courses in this fall 2001 semester.  Courses in the professional phase will be offered in the spring 2002 semester, starting in January.  The Single Subject Teaching Credential Program is expected to be up and running in its entirety by the summer of 2002.