Teaching Credential in Mathematics

Department of Mathematics

California State University, Fullerton

The Degree in Mathematics offers subject matter preparation for a single subject credential. This credential authorizes service as a teacher in a classroom (K-12) in which a single subject is taught, in this case, mathematics. In order to be eligible to begin the credential program, a candidate must have first finished, or almost finished, the Subject Matter Preparation Program in Mathematics (formally called a "Waiver").

The Preparation Program contains the Teaching Concentration under the B.A. in mathematics, so students wishing to pursue a teaching credential should select this concentration for their major. The other three concentrations in the Mathematics degree are allowed provided that Math 302, 401 and 402 are completed as electives. If a student has completed their degree at another institution, the "cognate" portion of the major is not required, but coursework equivalent to the remainder of the major needs to have been taken.

In addition to the formal coursework needed for the major, the Subject Matter Preparation Program includes coursework related to the classroom setting. These include: EDSC 310 and EDSC 386. EDSC 310 is a fieldwork course and EDSC 386 is an adolescent psychology course which also qualifies for G.E. credit under "Lifelong Learning". The remainder of the Preparation Program is done while in the actual credential program, although many students take EDSC 440M, a multicultural experience, before they begin (it can be taken during the first semester of the credential program as well).

Applications are due at the end of September (February) for the program beginning in the following Spring (Fall) semester. The successful application will include:

1. A GPA in mathematics courses of at least 2.7 with an emphasis on strong performance in upper division courses.

2. Letters of recommendation that show your experience with youth and your commitment to teaching.

3. An interview during which you will be asked to solve problems in front of a panel of faculty from the mathematics department.