California’s been dealing with a teacher shortage that just won’t quit. To keep classrooms running, many school districts have had to get creative—sometimes hiring individuals who are still completing their credentials, relying heavily on substitutes, or stretching teachers thin by packing more students into each class.
It’s not ideal—for students or teachers—and it’s a significant reason why there’s a strong push to get more well-prepared educators into classrooms quickly.
Enter: accelerated teaching degree programs in California.
In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know, from what accelerated teaching degree programs in California are to how credentialing works in California. We will also list some of the top accelerated teaching programs across the state.
Related:
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- 5 Key Requirements for Entering an Accelerated Education Degree Program
- Top 5 Reasons to Choose an Accelerated Education Degree
- Fast-Track to the Classroom: The Rise of Accelerated Education Degrees
- Best Online Bachelors in Education Programs: Students Before Profits Award
What is an Accelerated Teaching Program?
Accelerated teaching degree programs in California, and everywhere else for that matter, are fast-track programs designed to help you become a credentialed teacher in a fraction of the time a traditional route would take. We’re talking 12 to 18 months instead of four or more years. These accelerated programs are generally post-bachelor’s (so you already need a degree in something).
So, who are these programs for?
- Career changers who want to pivot into teaching
- Recent grads who didn’t major in education but want to teach
- Working professionals who need flexible options
- People looking for online, hybrid, or evening/weekend formats
Some fast-track teaching credential in California even allows you to start teaching right away—with support—while you finish your credential. More on that in a bit.
How Teacher Credentialing Works in California
In California, teaching credentials are issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). To teach in a public school, you need at least a Preliminary Credential, which is kind of like a learner’s permit for teachers. After a few years and meeting additional requirements, you’ll upgrade to a Clear Credential, which is basically your full license.
Here’s what you need to get started:
- Bachelor’s Degree – It doesn’t have to be in education.
- Basic Skills – Your skills are assessed through the CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test). There may also be newer alternatives to meet this requirement.
- Subject Matter Competency – You will need to pass the CSET (California Subject Examinations for Teachers) in the subject you want to teach.
- Credential Program – You must complete an approved program, which includes coursework + student teaching or a teaching internship.
- Certificate of Clearance – You must pass this background check.
You can take one of two main routes:
- Intern Programs: These allow you to teach full-time while finishing your credential. Great if you want hands-on experience and need a paycheck.
- Post-Baccalaureate Credential Programs: More traditional. You’re in class, then do student teaching. Typically, more structured and guided.
What to Look for in Accelerated Teaching Programs in California
Not all programs are created equal. Here are some key things to consider when you’re comparing online teaching degrees in California:
- CTC Approval: This is non-negotiable. If the CTC doesn’t approve a program, don’t waste your time.
- Delivery Format: Online? Hybrid? In-person? Choose the format that matches your learning style and fits your schedule.
- Student Teaching or Internship Options: Do you want to teach while you earn your credential? Or would you mind doing unpaid student teaching first?
- Flexibility: Evening and weekend classes? Self-paced online modules? It matters if you’re working or parenting.
- Credential Types Offered:
- Multiple Subject: For elementary grades
- Single Subject: For middle/high school
- Education Specialist: For special ed
Top 7 Accelerated Teaching Degree Programs in California
1. California State University, Fullerton – Post-baccalaureate Teaching Credential Programs
- Duration: About 1 year
- Credential Type: Multiple Subject, Single Subject
- Format: Hybrid (some in-person, some online)
- Highlights:
- Strong ties with local school districts
- Great support for student teaching placements
- Affordable tuition
As one of the best one-year teaching programs in California, it’s structured, reliable, and very well-regarded. This is ideal if you want a solid, traditional teacher preparation experience but in a fast-track format.
2. University of Southern California (USC) – MAT Online
- Duration: 12 months (accelerated option)
- Credential Type: Multiple and Single Subject, with bilingual and special ed options
- Format: Online with local clinical placement
- Highlights:
- Nationally ranked program
- Offers advanced credentials
- Super flexible for working adults
USC’s MAT Online program is one of the most intense but high-quality California teacher credential programs. If you’re looking for a prestigious name on your resume and lots of online flexibility, this could be it.
3. California State University, Long Beach – Intern Credential Program
- Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years while teaching)
- Credential Type: Single Subject
- Format: Job-embedded
- Highlights:
- Get paid to teach while you earn your credential
- Strong focus on equity and urban schools
- Great mentorship model
The Internship Pathway lets eligible Single Subject Credential candidates work as full-time teachers while finishing their program. It’s also one of the best teaching programs in California for those who want to work in urban and high-need schools.
4. Loyola Marymount University – Accelerated Teaching Credential Program
- Duration: 13–16 months
- Credential Type: Multiple Subject, Single Subject, Mild to Moderate Support Needs
- Format: Online + evening/weekend classes
- Highlights:
- Emphasis on social justice and diversity
- Option to earn dual credentials (like gen ed + special ed)
- Personal, small-cohort feel
LMU’s Teacher Prep programs are designed to be flexible, giving you different ways to complete your classroom experience based on your needs. You can choose from four pathways:
- Student Teaching
- Resident
- Intern
- Private
5. National University – Fast-Track Teaching Credential Programs
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Credential Type: Multiple Subject, Single Subject, Special Ed
- Format: Online, hybrid, evening classes
- Highlights:
- Monthly start dates
- Great for working adults
- High flexibility and support
- One course at a time
This is among the top-rated teaching degrees for career changers in California. It is extremely popular among career changers due to its flexibility and rolling admissions.
6. Fresno Pacific University – Teacher Credentialing Program
- Duration: 12 months (accelerated track)
- Credential Type: Multiple Subject, Single Subject
- Format: Online + in-person options
- Highlights:
- Christian faith-based education
- Small class sizes and lots of personal support
- Good rural and Central Valley reach
Fresno Pacific offers a great alternative teaching certification in California for those looking for a values-based program in a smaller setting. The university also offers a Rural Teacher Residency Program.
7. San Diego State University – Integrated Teacher Education Program (ITEP)
- Duration: 1-year post-bacc option (or 4-year undergrad+credential)
- Credential Type: Multiple Subject, Single Subject
- Format: Hybrid, cohort-based
- Highlights:
- Strong residency and mentorship model
- Deep district partnerships
- Focus on equity and inclusion
SDSU’s California educator preparation programs are known for quality and innovation. The ITEP pathway is especially great if you’re still in undergrad — but the post-bacc options are solid, too.
Admission Requirements and Tips for Success
Applying for accelerated teaching degree programs in California may seem intimidating at first, but it will become manageable when you understand the steps.
For many credentialing programs, Master of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching California, the most common requirements for admission include:
- Bachelor’s degree (in any subject)
- Minimum GPA (usually 2.5–3.0)
- CBEST/CSET test scores (or approved alternatives)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Interview
Here are a few tips on how to stand out:
- Get experience. Volunteer in a classroom, become a substitute teacher or work as a tutor.
- Craft a strong personal statement. Show your passion, your “why,” and your readiness to teach.
- Know your audience. Tailor your application to the values and strengths of each program.
- Stay organized. Deadlines come fast — mark your calendar.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for California Teaching Students
Yes, several accelerated teaching degree programs in California do offer financial aid.
- TEACH Grant: Up to $4,000/year if you commit to teaching in high-need areas.
- Cal Grant for Teacher Prep: Helps cover credential program costs.
- Golden State Teacher Grant Program: Up to $20,000 if you teach at a priority school.
- District Incentives: Some districts offer loan forgiveness or tuition reimbursement for new teachers.
Tip: Always talk to your program’s financial aid office. They often have hidden gems.
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations for Teachers in California
Let’s talk about ROI.
Average Salaries:
- Starting: ~$55K
- Experienced: ~$85K+
- Admin or specialty roles: over $100K in some districts
High-Demand Areas:
- STEM
- Special Education
- Bilingual Education
- Rural and urban districts
If you’re willing to work in harder-to-staff schools or teach high-need subjects, your odds of getting hired fast—and possibly getting bonuses or stipends—go way up.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever dreamed of teaching in California, now is a fantastic time to go for it, and you don’t need to spend years in school to get there.
Accelerated teaching credential programs make it possible to jump in quickly, affordably, and with tons of support. Whether you’re coming from another career, just finishing college, or simply ready to answer the call, there’s a program out there that fits your life.
