First Steps...

So, you have decided you are interested in our program. Now what?

The first education class to take is EDSS 300C, Preliminary Field Experiences in Science Teaching. This semester (fall 2008) there are two sections of the course - they meet on Wednesdays from 4:00-6:45 and Monday from 7:00-9:45. This course is designed to introduce you to middle school and high school science teaching. There are 45 hours of observation and field work at local middle schools and high schools. One of the goals of the class is to help you decide if teaching is really what you want to do. During this course you will also apply to the Single Subject Credential Program.

Your transcripts will need to be evaluated. Faculty review your transcripts and determine which of the course requirements you have met. Courses do not have to be from CSULB in order to "count". Courses from other institutions are examined to determine if they are equivalent to those that are required. You will be given back a checklist showing which courses you still need to take and which requirements are met. Once this is done you will be better able to plan a course of action. CSULB credential candidates can get transcripts reviewed during EDSS300C. Non-CSULB students wishing to have their transcripts reviewed for subject matter competence as well. If you are not getting your credential at CSULB there is a fee associated with the transcript review. Please visit the Single Subject website to find out about how to get your transcripts evaluated for subject matter competence.

Eventually you will need to apply to the university. This can be done on-line. If you are only planning on taking a single class (EDSS300C) to see if teaching is for you, you might consider taking EDSS300C through University Extension. After you decide to apply to the program you will need to apply to the university as well. GPA requirements for admission to the CSULB as a graduate student/credential student is 2.5 while a GPA of 2.67 is required for the Single Subject Credential Program. Please note, being accepted to the university does not guarantee admission into the Credential Program.

Last update: 9/18/08