Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. Eventually, you must apply to the University, but it is possible to enroll in EDSS 300G through Open University. Once you decide to earn your credential; however, you will need to apply to the University through theCSU Apply and become a matriculated student in order to continue taking your classes.

A cumulative GPA of 2.67 in all coursework or a 2.75 in the last sixty units is required to enter the Single Subject Credential Program (English). If your GPA is below 2.67 overall or below 2.75 in the last 60 units, you maY petition to enter the program.


You must have a 2.50 GPA to be admitted to the University as a post-baccalaureate student. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to the Single Subject Credential Program.

Subject matter competency means that you are recognized by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) as knowledgeable in the subject in which you are being credentialed to teach. Subject matter competency can be met in one of the following ways:

1. CSULB English Education major (i.e., Waiver Program). This consists of taking all required Subject Matter courses and earning your B.A. degree.
OR
2. A letter from a credential analyst indicating that you have fulfilled the subject matter competency requirements at an accredited California university
OR
3. CSET* (all four sub-tests).

See the English Single Subject Advisor for a transcript review. Call (562) 985-4223 or (562) 985-4215  for advising hours.

Student teaching is a full-time, semester-long commitment. Once you have completed your coursework (both English and professional education), you will enroll in 15 units of student teaching during a single semester. You are expected to be at the school the entire day. English Single Subject students are placed in either a middle school or high school for their student teaching experience. While student teaching, you will assume responsibility for creating lessons, teaching classes, and evaluating student work.

During student teaching, you will be observed by a University Supervisor. You will also be expected to enroll and participate in the student teaching seminar--EDSS 473G, which is an additional 3 units. Students are expected to take the Teaching Performance Assessment during this time as well. 

From the 405 or 605, take the 22 (Seventh Street) West. CSULB is located on Seventh Street. Enter the campus on West Campus Drive (next to the large, electronic message sign). Make an immediate right turn off West Campus. Follow the road around the Education Building to the stop sign. There are metered parking spaces in the South Turnaround ahead.

After parking your car, if you want to go to the Teacher Preparation and Advising Center (TPAC) which houses the Single Subject Credential Program proceed to EED1 (the buildings you just drove around) and go to room 67.

If you want to go to visit the English Single Subject Coordinator, Professor Kasey Spencer, proceed north to the McIntosh Humanities Building (MHB). To get to MHB, you will walk away from 7th Street toward the large, nine-story building located behind the fountain. Enter the building and proceed to the English Single Subject Coordinator's office, MHB 311. Please note that this faculty member will have office hours that change every semester. It is best to email to confirm before coming to campus. 

Follow this link for illustrated driving directions and campus maps.