Admission Checklist and Program Requirements: Steps to Join the Reach Intern Teacher Credential Program
Subject Matter Competency Requirement (SMCR):
Applicants are required to show sufficient knowledge of the subject(s) they will be teaching. Additionally, the subject(s) must correspond with both the teaching position specified in the employment offer letter and the credential they are pursuing. Competence may be demonstrated in the following ways:
- Major: Complete a degree major from a regionally-accredited college or university in the subject area being sought. Please see acceptable majors for Single Subject (SS) and Multiple Subject (MS) Credential. If pursuing this option, you must complete the Subject Matter by Coursework or Major form found here.
- CSET exams: Achieve a passing score on the appropriate subject-matter examination(s). Information, including passing scores and registration, can be found in Commission leaflet CL-674S entitled Verifying Subject-Matter Competence by Examination for Single Subject Teaching Credentials. While registering, use test code 790 to have your results sent directly to the Reach Institute for School Leadership. If results are not sent directly, please submit a copy of your official score report with your online application. Proof of passing all relevant subtests is required. All results are valid for five years.
- Coursework: Successful completion of applicable coursework verified by a Commission-approved program of professional preparation. Coursework must be completed at a regionally-accredited institution and addresses each of the domains of the subject matter requirements adopted by the Commission in the content area of the Single Subject Credential. If pursuing this option, please complete the Subject Matter by Coursework or Major form pertaining to the subject credential sought found here. For additional information regarding the SMCR coursework please use the chart provided by the CTC found here.
- Coursework and Examination: Successful completion through a combination of coursework and examination options that meet or exceed the domains of the subject matter requirements adopted by the Commission in the content area of the Single Subject Credential. If pursuing this option, please complete the Subject Matter by Coursework or Major form found here.
- Commission-approved subject-matter program: Complete a Commission-approved subject-matter program or its equivalent and obtain verification of completion from the authorized person in the education department of a California college or university with an approved program. Please submit a letter from a CTC approved subject matter preparation program verifying completion.
- Specialized Science subjects ONLY: Individuals may take and pass the appropriate subject matter examinations or obtain verification of completion of subject-matter course work from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Requirements and procedures may be found in Coded Correspondence 03-0010.