The MA in Education with a California Preliminary Teaching Credential puts theory into practice through an internship that provides mentor-guided clinical experience and prepares teachers who make a difference in the world.
Work in schools should be informed by academic research and, likewise, discussions at the university need to be enriched by real-life classroom experience. We believe the best way to prepare great teachers is through real-world experience. Our program’s internship component provides a mentor-guided teaching experience in a K–12 setting, where every assignment and class is designed to develop the skills, strategies, and attitudes you’ll need to interrupt cycles of academic failure. You will grapple with the academic and the theoretical as well as the practical and the clinical. You’ll be mentored by seasoned K–12 veterans, many of whom have taken time out of the K–12 arena to pursue doctoral work in our School of Educational Studies or to participate in research projects.
Our candidates simultaneously earn their Master of Arts degree and one of the following credentials:
- Preliminary Multiple-Subject Credential: For those who want to teach in elementary schools.
- Preliminary Single-Subject Credential: For those who want to work in middle and high schools teaching a specific subject.
Program Highlights
- Complete your credential and MA in Education in either 12, 18, or 24 months.
- Enjoy the choice between a fully online or 80/20 hybrid program.
- Choose one of 3 completion pathways depending on your career goals.
- Benefit from accessible and affordable program pricing to address the urgent need for teachers in California.
- CGU’S Teacher Education Program has built strong relationships with more than 150 school districts that recognize CGU’s reputation for producing high-quality teachers; the result is ample internship opportunities for our student-teachers.
- Within five years of earning a Preliminary Credential in California, a teacher must earn a Clear Credential from an approved Induction Program. CGU has both a Preliminary Credential Program and an Induction Program.
