All 23 California State Universities offer a teacher-credentialing program, including a degree in what is called a single subject for potential secondary teachers, as well as a degree in multiple subjects for potential elementary teachers. Specialist programs and degrees are also available in special education, reading and bilingual language programs.
Among the state universities, California State University-Los Angeles, a Charter College of Education, offers a full range of programs leading to a bachelor's degree in education. Their programs meet all credential requirements in such areas as education specialists, reading/language arts specialists, as well as multiple subject areas in elementary education and bilingual, cross-cultural, language and academic development (BCLAD). Single subject degrees in secondary teaching and BCLAD for secondary teachers are also offered. As of 2010, the basic tuition figure available for California State University-Los Angeles is quoted as $983 a quarter.
California State University-Bakersfield is one university that offers teacher credential courses that can be conveniently taken in the evening, on weekends or online. Many others do so as well. California State University-Bakersfield offers both a basic credential program, including a bachelor's degree with a major in child, adolescent and family studies or liberal studies which can be combined with the multiple subjects program. As of 2010, the basic tuition figure available is quoted as $4,077 per quarter.
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing lists 52 private universities and colleges throughout California offering teacher credential teacher programs and degrees. Among these private universities, Loyola Marymount University's undergraduate teacher preparation program requires all undergraduates to declare an academic major. This major can be in liberal studies, a program for K-8 or elementary teacher candidates. Credential programs also include secondary education, bilingual education and special education. As of 2010, the basic tuition figure available for Loyola Marymount University is quoted as $17,870 a semester.
Another example of a private university offering teacher credential programs is Antioch University Santa Barbara. This university offers programs in multiple subject teacher credentials and an education specialist credential. These two programs can be blended. Full time students completing the four consecutive quarter's credential program are eligible for a Preliminary Credential. All Antioch University courses are held in afternoons and evenings, with some courses offered on weekends. Basic tuition at Antioch University, as quoted from the latest figures available, is $5438 per quarter.
The University of California campuses do not offer undergraduate majors in education, as noted by the University of California-Santa Cruz. However, the University of California-Santa Cruz does offer--as do other universities in the system--a minor in education for students who plan on becoming teachers. For example, the University of California-San Diego offers minors in mathematics education, science education and education studies. A potential teacher is expected to enroll in a credential program after completing a bachelor's degree. Candidates should check with specific universities to determine the appropriate courses and degrees needed to meet credential requirements.