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FAQ - Online Educator Preparation Programs
Will the CTC accept a Baccalaureate or higher degree earned through an online program?
A baccalaureate or higher degree noted on official transcripts from a college or university accredited by one of the regional accreditation bodies recognized by the Commission will be acceptable for use toward California certification, whether or not it is completed through an online format. In addition to a Bachelor's or higher degree, there are specific requirements that must also be completed for California certification. Click here for more information on the requirements for obtaining specific types of documents.
Can I earn a teaching or services credential through an online program?
There are a number of institutions that offer educator preparation programs in an online format. However, when choosing an online program, please consider the following:
Will the program result in a recommendation for California certification?
Some institutions, particularly some out-of-state institutions, offer both Commission-approved educator preparation programs for California certification in addition to programs designed to meet licensure requirements for other states that do not fulfill California certification requirements. Credential candidates should ensure that the program they enroll in will result in a recommendation by that institution for California certification. Please refer to the section below if the online program leads to certification in another state or U.S. territory. For a list of institutions offering Commission-approved educator preparation programs, please click here.
What if I completed an online program that led to an out-of-state credential but I want to teach in California?
You may apply for certification in California as an out-of-state prepared applicant based on holding a comparable out-of-state credential. Please keep in mind that you may have additional requirements to complete for full certification in California. Please click here for information on applying based on completion of an out-of-state program.
What if the online credential program is offered by an institution outside California?
You need to contact the institution to verify their online program will lead to a recommendation for California certification. If the institution indicates their online program leads directly to California certification, you can check the Commission's web site for the list of approved programs to verify that the institution offers an educator preparation program approved by the Commission. Please refer to the section above if the online program offered by an institution outside California leads to certification in another state or U.S. territory.
I need to add an authorization to teach English language learners. Are courses offered online?
There are a number of institutions with Commission-approved California Teachers of English Learners (CTEL) programs and many of them offer some or all of their CTEL courses online. Please check our list of approved programs to verify the institution you are considering has a Commission-approved CTEL program. You will need to contact the specific institution for details on how their program is administered.
Important note: The Commission approves many types of preparation programs as well as sequenced courses for purposes such as subject matter competence, English Learner requirements, etc. You should always ensure that the courses you are taking are approved by the Commission to meet the requirements for the specific California certification you are seeking and will result in issuance by the Commission of that particular document or authorization.