The Designated Subjects CTE Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach in grades twelve and below and in classes organized primarily for adults, in career technical, trade or vocational courses.

Credential Requirements (9 units)

The Designated Subjects Career Technical Education (CTE) Teaching Credential Program prepares educators for specialized roles in career and technical education. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent and at least three years of verifiable work experience directly related to the industry sector listed on the credential for the Preliminary Credential. One year must equate to 1,000 clock hours, and the experience can be full-time or part-time, paid or unpaid. Additionally, at least one year of work experience must have been completed within the past five years, or two years within the last ten years. For assistance, applicants can contact the Credential Processing Office at the Jim and Judy Watson College of Education Student Services.

The Preliminary Credential, valid for three years, is the initial step for individuals entering the field. It is based on documented work experience and serves as a prerequisite to advancing to the Clear Credential, as required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). Prospective candidates should request an application packet from the Credential Processing Office and ensure the credential supports their professional goals. Additional details are available on the CTC website.

To obtain the Clear Credential, candidates must complete the required ECTS coursework, fulfill US Constitution and Health Education requirements, obtain CPR certification, and complete two years of teaching under the Preliminary Credential. This program offers a clear and structured pathway for educators to enhance their qualifications and make a meaningful impact in career and technical education.

Required Courses for Cleared Credential (9 units) 

ECTS 5010	Principles and Methods for Teaching Designated Subjects	3
or ECTS 6010	Principles and Methods for Teaching Designated Subjects
ECTS 5040	Principles of Career and Technical Education	3
or ECTS 6040	Principles of Career and Technical Education
ECTS 5190	Instructional Technology for Career and Technical Educators	3
or ECTS 6190	Instructional Technology for Career and Technical Educators
Total Units		9

Additional Requirements

* Please note: For verification of the additional requirements, contact the Credential Processing Office at the Jim & Judy Watson Student Services. 

Students must also complete:

1. The United States Constitution requirement (or successful completion of an examination administered through the College of Extended and Global Education) Current options:

   HIST 1460	History of the United States: Pre-Colonization to Present	3
   HIST 2000	United States History to 1877	3
   HIST 5400	Constitutional History of the United States	3
   PSCI 2030	Government of the United States	3
   PSCI 4100	American Constitutional Law	3
   PSCI 4110	The Bill of Rights	3

2. Fulfill the health education requirement; current option HSCI 5240.
3. Valid CPR card or certificate (Hands-on training covering Adult, Child & Infant).
4. Two years of subject-related teaching experience in the environments relevant to the credential within the validity of the Preliminary Credential.