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Teach

Paths to Teaching

Are you interesting in a teaching career? Check out CTC's Roadmap to Teaching.

I want to go
back to school

One

Enroll in community college or a 4-year university to earn a Bachelor's Degree

Two

Accepted to Teacher Preparation Program


 

Three

Graduate and receive California Teaching Credential

This is the most traditional route to teaching. It ends in an individual receiving a teaching credential. Time to completion varies based on individual circumstances
 

I have an
Associate's Degree

One

Enroll in a 4-year university to earn a Bachelor's Degree

Two

Accepted to Teacher Preparation Program


 

Three

Graduate and receive a Bachelor's Degree and California Teaching Credential

Designed for anyone looking to become a teacher who has an Associate's Degree. Completion usually takes around 2 years but can vary based on individual circumstances.
 

I graduated college with a Bachelor's Degree or higher

One

Accepted to
Teacher Preparation program

Two

Complete mentored internship, work under emergency permit while working and going to school, or completing teacher program full-time

Three

Complete program and receive California Teaching Credential

This path is designed for school staff with a Bachelor's Degree or higher who are looking to become a teacher. This path can take 1 to 2 years on average to complete but can vary based on individual circumstances.

Questions about the path to becoming a teacher?

Need information on colleges, financial aid or credentials?

Visit our Prospective Teachers section below.