Single Subject Teaching Credential
Single 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 middle or junior high level and one semester at the high school level. We place NDNU students at two of the 30+ public schools districts where we have contracts.
The Single Subject Program at NDNU is a post-baccalaureate program, which requires a full fifth year, or 31 – semester units, of study.
Multiple learning modalities available: In-person, hybrid, and fully online courses.
Catalog Link For Single Subject Credentials
Preliminary Single and Multiple Subject Credential Program Handbook
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 recommendation
- Statement of Intent describing your interest, experience, connection to our mission, and the qualities 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
- Teaching and Pedagogy
- Secondary Curriculum
- Language and Literacy in Content Areas
- Student Teaching/ Intern Seminar I
- Student Teaching/ Intern Seminar II
- CalTPA Support Cycle I & II
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
Subject Matter Content Areas
Art, Business, English, Dance, Health Science, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Science, History/ Social Science, Theatre, World Language
Distinctions of the Single Subject Teaching Credential
- The Teacher Education Program allows NDNU students enrolled in its credential programs articulate up to 15 units of specific credential courses toward certain master’s degrees.
- All School of Education faculty and supervisors have previous experience as teachers and administrators in public and private schools.
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.
What Is a Single Subject Teaching Credential?
A Single Subject Teaching Credential prepares you to teach one subject area in departmentalized classrooms, most often in middle and high schools. Our one-year, 31-unit program offers 12 subject areas, including English, mathematics, science, history/social science, world language, art and music. You will complete two student teaching placements, one in middle or junior high school and one in high school, in our 30+ partner public school districts, with courses offered in person, hybrid or fully online.
Program at a Glance
| Detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Units | 31 semester units |
| Length | One calendar year |
| Format | In person, hybrid or fully online |
| Subject areas | Art, Business, English, Dance, Health Science, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Science, History/Social Science, Theatre, World Language |
| Student teaching | Two placements: middle/junior high and high school |
| Partner districts | 30+ public school districts |
Your Path to the Credential
- Apply and interview. Submit your application, two recommendations, a statement of intent and transcripts, then meet with the program director.
- 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.
- Take your coursework and student teach. Courses and two student teaching placements run across one calendar year, with CalTPA support built in.
- Apply for your credential. Our Credentials Office guides you through California’s remaining requirements and your credential recommendation.
Single or Multiple Subject?
Prefer to teach every subject to younger students? Our Multiple Subject Teaching Credential prepares you for elementary classrooms. You can also explore paid, school-based training through our Teacher Residency Program, or the Master of Arts in Education.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to earn a Single Subject Teaching Credential?
The program takes one calendar year. It includes 31 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.