Teacher Credential Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to the Credential Programs if my GPA is below 3.0?
Yes, you can, especially if youi believe there is sufficient evidence- based on achievements and insights expressed in your statement of purpose and letters of reccomendation- to support the claim that you have the content knowledge, work ethic, and character to take on the work of the program and to become and excellent teacher. Admissions decisions are based on more than GPA.
Whom do I need to ask for letters of reccomendations?
If possible, obtain a letter from each of the following:
1. someone who can vouch for your academic promise in a graduate program, especially your ability to write;
2. an employer who knows about your work ethic and participation on a work team; and
3. someone who can describe your ability to work effectively with children and adolescents.
If you can't obtain a letter in one of the above categories, obtain a third letter from someone who knows you well enough to discuss your character and intelligence in another context.
Do I need to take the CSET if I earned a master's degree?
Yes. The CSET requirement applies to everyone except those who have completed and approved Subject Matter Preparation Program or for science candidates with a graduate degree in science. Keep in mind that the graduate degree in science only authorizes a teaching assignment in that subject area and not the full spectrum of introductory science or coordinated science teaching assignments. (Note: Subject Matter Preparation Programs in Elementary Education are no longer accepted as a substitute for the CSET.)
Can I apply for the MAT program if I earned my credential from another university?
No. Our approved MAT program includes the credential program as well. However, we may be developing a Master's in Education in the future for teachers who have been in their practice for some years, so keep visiting our website.
If I apply for the MAT program, do I need to submit a separate applications for the Credential Program?
No, the MAT application automatically applies to the credential program. If a candidate does not get admitted to the MAT program, an offer will be made to have the application considered for the Credential Program.
If a candidate is applying to the MAT program after entering the credential program, another application will be needed, plus some supporting documentation, but no additional application fees will be charged.
If I am currently in the credential program, can I apply for the MAT program?
Yes. About a third of our MAT students enter the master's program immediately after they have earned their credential. Please consult with Student Affairs for application deadlines associated with this process to ensure that your opportunity to apply for the MAT program does not expire.
If I am not offered admission to the MAT program, can I still get into the Credential program?
Yes. You will be asked if you would like your application considered for admission to the credential program, and your file will be reviewed again for that program.
Can I earn two single subject credentials if I want to teach two subjects?
Yes. You will need to select one discipline for your methods emphasis and student teaching during the program. However, if you are a single subject credential holder, you can add authorizations by passing the CSET exam in the target discipline. If you are a multiple subjects credential holder, you will need to take a methods course and the CSET. Single subject credential holders who want to add a multiple subject credential need to complete a multiple subject methods course, pass the RICA exam, and pass the CSET exam. Please contact the counselors in Student Affairs for more information.
Can I defer my admission to the program if I decide not to begin this year?
Yes. However, you will need to submit a written request for us to defer your admission. Please not that your admission can only be deferrred for one year.
Upon being admitted...
Can newly admitted students register for classes immediately?
Near the end of June, you can register for courses as soon as you have a UC Net ID and you understand the structure of the program. The Department of Education invites all new post-baccaulaureate students to attend an Enrollment Session where we explain the unique schedules of the teacher preparation programs at UC Irvine as well as student teaching. Click this link to reserve a seat in an upcoming Enrollment Session: http://www.gse.uci.edu. You can click on this link after attending an enrollment session to register for your courses: http://www.rgs.uci.edu/grad/newadmits/webreg_tele.htm
What if I need to work during the Credential program?
The program is very demanding, so we encourage candidates to work as little as possible.
Am I guaranteed a place in all required courses?
Yes, but we encourage you to register as soon as possible to get your first choice of courses.
Why am I required to be at my fieldwork school site before the UCI quarter starts?
The state requires that you experience the first days of school for teachers and students to learn as much as possible about the work that teachers must do prior to the beginning of the school and the expectations they set for behavior and performance during the fist day with students.
Why do some of my courses begin prior to the beginning of UCI's fall quarter?
The program coincides with the public school calendar; therefore, as soon as your fieldwork begins, there are courses that correspond with fieldwork.
Why can't I enroll in my classes?
There are several reasons why students might not be able to register for classes:
1. You did not complete the Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) form with the Registrar's office in order to enroll in classes. Contact the Registrar's Office to find out if this is the case.
2. The Office of Graduate Studies has not assessed your file yet (especially if you are a recent admit). In this case, you would check with Graduate Studies to find out if the file has been assessed yet.
3. Academic counselors may have placed a hold on your record because you have not provided evidence of completion of a bachelor's degree, enrolled in ED 173, or fulfillment of some other condition of acceptance.
If none of these apply to you, please contact Student Affairs, who will help you.
What does it mean to file a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR)?
This act on your part notifies the University of your plans to accept or reject an offer of admission from UC Irvine. More information on SIR is available at: http://www.rgs.uci.edu/grad/newadmits/sir.htm
Do I need SIR prior to activating my UCInet ID?
Yes. More information on UCnetID is available at: http://www.rgs.uci.edu/grad/newadmits/ucinetid.htm
When can I apply for financial aid or scholarships?
For financial aid (loans and grants) please follow this link:
http://www.rgs.uci.edu/grad/newadmits/fafsa.htm
For scholarship money available from the Department of Education, please follow this link:
http://www.gse.uci.edu/finance
For additional information: http://www.ofas.uci.edu/content
How do I accept my fellowship offer (Ph.D. students)?
Here's how: http://www.rgs.uci.edu/grad/newadmits/fellowship.htm
Intern Program:
Is the Intern Program the best teacher preparation for me?
Several factors will determine whether this program is the best fit for an individual seeking to earn a teaching credential. Some characteristics of a succesful intern candidate are listed below:
- Extensive informal teaching experience such as college teaching assistant, summer camp, corporate training
- Strong organizational skills
- Self-directed
- Motivated to teach
- Strong subject matter competence (CSET or advanced degree)
Why is the program five UCI quarters (compared to the three quarter student teaching program)?
The intern credential program begins with one quarter (spring) of full time study, including about 150 hours of fieldwork at school site, followed by a full schedule of summer session coursework (late afternoon, evening), in preparation for the intern teaching year. The final three quarters (Fall, Winter, Spring) are spent in a salaried full-time teaching assignment in a public school with a minimal number of evening classes at UCI.
What is the role of the school districts in the UCI Intern Program?
By law, an intern credential program operates in partnership with school districts, with an advisory board drawn from those districts. Acceptance into the UCI Intern Program is contingent upon a fieldwork offer from one of the partner districts.
Why is the program five UCI quarters (compared to the three quarter student teaching program)?
The intern credential program begins with one quarter (spring) of full time study, including about 150 hours of fieldwork at school site, followed by a full schedule of summer session coursework (late afternoon, evening), in preparation for the intern teaching year. The final three quarters (Fall, Winter, Spring) are spent in a salaried full-time teaching assignment in a public school with a minimal number of evening classes at UCI.
Are Interns paid?
If a candidate receives a district internship after the first two quarters (spring and summer), the hiring school district will pay a starting intern salary with benefits for the duration of their internship (usually 3 UCI quarters).
What if a candidate does not receive an offer of a paid internship?
If a candidate is successful in their fieldwork and UCI coursework in the Spring and Summer, but does not receive an internship offer for the fall, they may be elegible to complete their California credential through student teaching.