Future Science Teacher Information

Thanks for considering a career in science teaching. This is a quick overview of things you need to know.
Use the "details" links when you need more complete information.

Credential Program Preparation (details)
To become a teacher in California you must earn a teaching credential.
This section describes how to prepare for the credential program at CSU Chico.

• Earn a Bachelor's Degree - any degree will do, but some are better than others - see below.

• Basic Skills Requirement
  There are many free alternatives and waivers listed here.
  If none of the alternatives apply, take and pass the CBEST exam.

• Earn Subject Matter Competency - this can be done any one of three different ways.
  1. Complete an approved science program:
     • BS Physics - Option in General Physics.
     • BA or BS in Chemistry plus five additional courses.
     • BS Geoscience - Option in Science Education
     • BA Biological Sciences
     • Foundational Level General Science for Middle School - Complete the following eight courses:
       PHYS 202A, 202B, CHEM 111,112, BIOL 151,152, GEOS 102, 300.
  2. Pass the CSET tests - (information page)
     You will need to pass test 215 for all science credentials. High school credentials require a second test as well.
     When you pass, the Center for Math and Science Education will reimburse you for the fees.
  3. Approval of the Subject Matter Advisor - Convince a Subject Matter Advisor
     you have completed the equivalent one of the approved programs.

• Complete the Credential Program Prerequisites/Co-requisites (details)
  The pre-req's must be completed before you can enter the program.
  The co-req's can be completed prior to or during the program.

  CMST 131		Speech Communication Fundamentals	3 units	(co-req)
  POLS 155		American Government: National, State, Local	3 units	(co-req)
  EDTE 255		Perspectives in K-12 Teaching (45-hour requirement) PHYS 489T is a recognized substitute for this course.	3 units	(pre-req)
  EDTE 302		Access and Equity in Education	3 units	(pre-req)
  EDTE 530		Fundamentals of Teaching Practice	3 units	(pre-req)
  EDTE 534		Teaching Special Populations	2 units	(co-req)
  EDTE 451		Health Education for Secondary School Teachers	3 units	(co-req)
  ENGL 471		Second Language Acquisition	3 units	(pre-req)

  All of these except EDTE 530 can be taken online.

• Apply to the Credential Program (details)
  To start in the fall, the deadline is Mar 1. To start in the spring, deadline Oct 1.
  Contact the School of Education as early as possible.
  • Andrew Nichols, THMA 101, 898-4582 or
  • Maris Thompson, THMA 103, 898-4196

Scholarships - (details)

• MSTI Scholarships - up to about $4,000 per year
• Noyce Scholarships - over $12,000 per year

Teaching Opportunities

• Science Teacher Club: Contact Dr. Newton
• Gateway Science Museum: volunteer info
• Learning Assistant: Contact Dr. Van Dusen
• Hands-on Laboratory: Contact Dr. Stephens