We are pleased to offer our Designated Subjects Credential Programs, which provide a unique pathway for individuals with a wide range of professional backgrounds—from those with a high school diploma to those with a Ph.D.—to become educators in their areas of expertise. These California teaching credentials authorize the instruction of career-technical and vocational subjects in settings such as middle schools, high schools, adult education programs, and Regional Occupational Centers and Programs (ROCPs).
Our fully online programs support aspiring educators in Career and Technical Education (CTE), Adult Education, and leadership roles, offering the flexibility and guidance needed to begin or enhance your teaching career.
Designated Subject Credential
If you would like to add a DS Credential while completing your undergraduate or graduate degree, or vice versa, please refer to the attached documents.
- Preliminary Designated Subject Credential – Submit through the Credential Processing Office (Download the Preliminary Credential Application and review the accompanying instructions).
- Clear Credential (with Degree) – To clear or advance your Preliminary Designated Subjects Credential, the ECTS courses required for clearing Credential may also count toward your degree requirements. This creates a valuable opportunity to strengthen your qualifications. If you intend to pursue both the degree and the credential, please apply only to the BA or MA in CTE program through Cal State Apply, and take the required credential courses as electives within the degree program.
- Our program is currently undergoing curriculum changes. Planning to apply for 2026–27? Contact us for the revised program plan.
Career & Technical Education Teacher Credential
Are you experienced in a business, technical, vocational, trade, or industrial specialty? This credential is designed for individuals who want to teach their expertise to students in a Regional Occupational Program (ROP) or any state-funded Career and Technical Education program. You can make a real impact by passing on your knowledge and skills to the next generation—all while completing the program entirely online.
Adult Education Teacher Credential
If you have work experience in a business, technical, vocational, trade, or industrial field and want to teach adult learners in state-funded programs, this credential is for you. The course requirements are the same as those for the CTE Teacher Credential, and you can complete the program entirely online, making it accessible and flexible for working professionals.
Supervision/Coordination Credential
Looking to take on a leadership role in education? Our Designated Subjects Supervision/Coordination Credential is specifically for ROP teachers aiming to step into administrative capacities. While this credential is tailored for ROP, it is recognized by community colleges, adult education, and private post-secondary institutions, providing broad opportunities for job advancement. As with our other credentials, this program is fully online for your convenience.
Special Subjects Teacher Credential
Do you have four years of verified experience or education in a specialized field? This credential is ideal for individuals interested in teaching disciplines such as:
- Aviation Flight Instruction
- Aviation Ground Instruction
- Basic Military Drill
- Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC)
- Driver Education and Training
- Limited Driver Training
This credential allows you to share your specialized knowledge and skills with students eager to learn.
Adding a Designated Subjects Credential
Already hold a Multiple Subject, Single Subject, or Education Specialist Teaching Credential with an authorization to teach English learners? You can add a Designated Subjects Credential to expand your teaching capabilities.
Get in Touch!
Interested in becoming a CTE or Adult Education teacher? Contact us today for more detailed information on our programs. We’re here to help you start or advance your teaching journey!