Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Launching Lives of Purpose

Notre Dame de Namur University has long been recognized for its excellent programs in education. Presently, NDNU offers four credentials and four master’s degrees within the education department in the School of Education. Many of our alumni are active teachers and administrators in San Mateo County and throughout the peninsula. Personalized attention and individualized advising for students, field-oriented programs, and successful placement of credential graduates have characterized the teacher education program since its inception in 1953. 

The program at NDNU offers students the opportunity to complete the professional coursework and two student teaching experiences within a calendar year. One semester of student teaching is spent at the primary level and one semester at the intermediate grade level. We place NDNU students at two of the 30 + public schools districts where we have contracts. 

The Multiple Subject Program at NDNU is a post-baccalaureate program, which requires a full fifth year, or 33 – semester units, of study.

Multiple learning modalities available: In-person, hybrid, and fully online courses.

Multiple Subject Credential Catalog

Preliminary Single and Multiple Subject Credential Program Handbook

Download Multiple Subject Credential Program Flyer


Credential Programs that Transform Careers.

FOUNDATIONS

  • Psychological and developmental foundations
  • Sociological and multicultural foundations
  • Special Education for classroom teachers
  • Foundations for teaching English language learners
  • Technological applications in education
  • Health education

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • Provide verification of experience with K-12 children/youth
  • Two letters of recomendation
  • Statement of Intent describing your interest, experience, link to our mission, qualifies you bring to the program
  • Personal interview with program director
  • Official Transcripts
    • Official transcripts from all colleges attended sent directly to transcripts@ndnu.edu by the issuing institution or its authorized transcript service.

COURSES

  • Assessment in the Classroom
  • Reading and Language Arts – Primary Grades
  • Reading and Language Arts – Upper Grades
  • Curriculum Elementary Mathematics
  • Curriculum Elementary Social Studies
  • Curriculum Elementary Science
  • Student Teaching/ Intern Seminar I
  • Student Teaching/ Intern Seminar II
  • Cycle 1 CalTPA support & Cycle 2/LPA support

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

  • CTC Certificate of Clearance (fingerprint clearance)
  • Provide a copy of negative tb test result within last 2 years
  • Provide verification of meeting the U.S. Constitution requirement by exam, course work, or CSU degree
  • Complete CPR training for infant, child, and adult

Distinctions of the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
  • The Teacher Education Department Programs allow students enrolled in its credential programs to articulate up to 12-units of specific credential courses toward certain master’s degrees
  • School of Education faculty bring diverse academic and practical expertise teachers and administrators in public and private schools into their advising and instruction​


State Authorization for Online Programs

The Department of Education requires that institutions offering online or distance learning programs outside of their home states must seek authorization to operate from regulatory bodies in those states. Each state has a different set of requirements when it comes to allowing out-of-state colleges and universities to offer online degree programs to its residents.

List of Authorized States 

What Is a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?

A Multiple Subject Teaching Credential is the California credential most elementary school teachers hold. It prepares you to teach all core subjects in a self-contained classroom, from reading and math to science and social studies. Our one-year, 33-unit program combines coursework with two student teaching placements, one at the primary level and one at the intermediate level, in our 30+ partner public school districts. You can take courses in person, hybrid or fully online.

Program at a Glance

Detail What to expect
Units 33 semester units
Length One calendar year
Format In person, hybrid or fully online
Student teaching Two placements: primary and intermediate grades
Partner districts 30+ public school districts
Toward a master’s Up to 12 credential units can apply to select master’s degrees

Your Path to the Credential

  1. Apply and interview. Submit your application, two recommendations, a statement of intent and transcripts, then meet with the program director.
  2. Complete clearances. You will need a CTC Certificate of Clearance, a negative TB test from the last two years, CPR certification and proof you have met the U.S. Constitution requirement.
  3. Take your coursework and student teach. Courses and two student teaching placements run across one calendar year, with CalTPA support built in.
  4. Apply for your credential. Our Credentials Office guides you through California’s remaining requirements and your credential recommendation.

Single or Multiple Subject?

If you would rather teach one subject to older students, such as English, math or science in middle or high school, look at our Single Subject Teaching Credential. Interested in working with students with disabilities? The Education Specialist Credential prepares you for special education roles. Not sure whether you also need a master’s degree? Read our guide to teaching credentials vs. master’s degrees, or explore the Master of Arts in Education.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to earn a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential?

The program takes one calendar year. It includes 33 semester units of coursework and two student teaching placements.

Can I earn my teaching credential online?

Yes. Courses are offered in person, hybrid or fully online. Student teaching takes place in person at a partner school district.

What is the difference between a single subject and multiple subject credential?

A Multiple Subject credential is mainly for elementary teachers who teach all subjects in one classroom. A Single Subject credential is for teaching one subject, usually in middle or high school.

Can my credential units count toward a master’s degree?

Yes. Some credential coursework can be applied toward select NDNU master’s degrees, such as the Master of Arts in Education. Talk to an advisor about which units transfer.

What do I need to apply?

You will need a bachelor’s degree, experience working with K-12 students, two letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, official transcripts and an interview with the program director.