You must have a California Teaching Credential to become a mathematics teacher in California public schools. California has set requirements for this credential that ensure that teachers in every classroom are qualified and ready to teach mathematics to diverse student populations. See the list below for all the requirements for a California Teaching Credential.
Interested in satisfying these requirements sooner?
You can meet some of these requirements while you are an undergrad by joining one of our pathways! For more information, click here for a list of our credential pathways and how to apply.
CA Credential Requirements
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Subject Matter Competence
Candidates for a CA Single Subject Credential in Mathematics must demonstrate “subject matter competence” by: 1) achieving a passing score on California’s three-part Subject Examination for Teachers in Mathematics (CSET), 2) completing a Mathematics or Applied Mathematics major, or 3) completing UCLA's CA-approved Subject Matter Preparation Program.
While at UCLA, complete a Mathematics or Applied Mathematics major or complete the Subject Matter Preparation Program
The UCLA Math Department has a CA-approved Subject Matter Preparation Program in Mathematics. This program highlights a series of math courses where upon completion, students request a letter from the UCLA Mathematics Department which verifies their “Subject Matter Competence.” Thus, no application for this program is required.
Note: The Mathematics for Teaching Major coursework follows this Subject Matter Preparation Program and thus undergraduate students will automatically satisfy this requirement.
Please email ugrad@math.ucla.edu once you complete 100% of the coursework to receive a CSET waiver.
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Pedagogical Competence
Candidates typically complete a year of coursework in a post-baccalaureate CA-approved teacher credentialing program.
While at UCLA, satisfy pedagogical competence via JMEP or the Integrated Pathway
Pedagogical coursework is required for a CA Secondary Teaching Credential in Mathematics. Complete courses that satisfy pedagogical competence through one of UCLA's Mathematics and Graduate School of Education Pathways offered through our Math for LA Program, which runs concurrent with your B.S. degree or within one year after graduating.
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Clinical Practice Hours
Candidates must complete 600 hours of supervised clinical practice.
While at UCLA, complete hours through specific mathematics and pedagogy courses
Complete Math 73XP, 74XP and 75XP to begin accruing these hours as early as Freshman year. During senior year, enroll in Math 105ABC as part and other education coursework as part of one of our credential pathways to complete your 600 hours..
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US Constitution Test
Candidates must satisfy the US Constitution requirement by either taking a course or passing a test based on the United States Constitution and the California State Government.
While at UCLA, complete one course or take a test
Complete one of these courses: Hist 13A, Hist 13B, Hist 13C, Hist 143A, Hist 143B or Poli Sci 40. You may also take the US Constitution test.
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California Basic Skills Requirement
Candidates must verify the California Basic Skills Requirement by either a qualifying score from eligible state exams or the CBEST which tests for basic reading and mathematics skills.
While at UCLA, satisfy CA's Basic Skills Requirement
Obtain a qualifying score on: the CBEST, an AP Exam, the SAT, the ACT, the CSU EAP Exam, or the CSU Placement exams. Note: UCLA CalTeach will reimburse your CBEST fees upon receipt of your passing score.
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Fingerprinting
California education code requires that all individuals who seek to obtain California credentials receive fingerprint clearance from the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
While at UCLA, receive fingerprint clearance
The UCLA Police Department Records Unit provides Live Scan/background check fingerprint services for campus affiliates as well at the general public by APPOINTMENT ONLY.
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