Commission at a Glance

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing (Commission) is an independent governmental entity that is responsible for:

• Accrediting educator credential preparation programs
• Issuing credentials and permits for service in California's public schools
• Administering credential discipline when necessary

The data below provide information on the number of Commission-approved institutions, preparation programs, accreditation site visits, applications processed, new credentials issued and educator disciplines taken in the 2019-20 fiscal year.

Click or hover over the figures for more details. To download data in PDF and excel, go the Data and Resources section at the bottom of the webpage.

Commission-approved Institutions and Programs

The Commission has the authority to accredit institutions and approve all programs that lead to a credential to serve as an educator in California's public schools. In Figure 1, the data show that there are currently five types of institutional segments (California State University, University of California, Private/Independent Institution, Local Education Agency and Other) that offer educator preparation programs.  Figure 2 displays the percent of active programs offered by segment in the fiscal year.  The accreditation site visits provide information on the quality of preparation offered by institutions, which is reviewed during the sixth year of the seven-year accreditation cycle.  Figure 3 displays the number of site visit completed by segment, and Figure 4 displays the distribution along the state.

Applications Processed and New Credentials Issued

The Commission processes applications submitted by Commission-approved institutions, current educators and individuals interested in serving in California's schools. New applications are submitted by educators obtaining a first-time or a new type of document. Renewal applications are submitted by educators who are renewing or adding new authorizations to an existing granted document.  Figure 5 displays the number of new and renewal applications processed.

Most new credentials are also issued to candidates who completed a California preparation program. Figure 6 displays the percent of new credentials issued via candidates' completion of a California preparation program.

In Figure 7, the distribution of new credentials provides information on the new teaching (Multiple Subject, Single Subject, Education Specialist, and Designated Subjects) and services (Administrative Services, Clinical or Rehabilitative Services, Pupil Personnel Services, School Nurse, Speech-Language Pathology Services and Teacher Librarian) credentials issued.  Data include child development permits. New credentials do not include certificates, substitute permits and other documents.

Educator Discipline

The Commission investigates allegations of misconduct by credential holders and applicants. Mandatory actions require the automatic revoking or denial of a credential or document due to a serious criminal offense. Discretionary actions are reviewed by the Committee of Credentials and recommendations are made to the Commission. The Commission will vote to adopt or not adopt the recommendations.  Figure 8 displays the number of total adverse actions taken in the fiscal year.