Information for the Prospective Student Interested in K-8 Teaching

In the State of California, to become a K-8 teacher, you must have a Bachelor’s Degree and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. The most common major taken for the Bachelor’s Degree is Liberal Studies (LBST).

At CSUSM we offer two great options for the B.A. in Liberal Studies for future teachers:

  • Elementary Subject Matter Option (ESM)– the traditional undergraduate program
    • Can be declared as a First-Year or Transfer student
  • Integrated Credential Program Option (ICP) – combines the undergraduate program with the Multiple Subject Credential program
    • Can be declared as early as a second-semester Sophomore or as a Transfer student 
Elementary Subject Matter Option (ESM)
Meets state standards for elementary teacher preparation programs
  • Provides B.A. Degree 
  • Enter a Credential Program after B.A. Degree 
Integrated Credential Program Option (ICP)
Meets state standards for elementary teacher preparation programs
  • Provides B.A. Degree and a Multiple Subject Credential
  • Integrates  the LBST requirements with the credential methods classes
  • Students must be available during the day and must take a full load of coursework (approximately 15 units per semester)
  • To be eligible for this program, complete most lower-division requirements for the Liberal Studies major with a minimum 2.67 GPA

    
 

Next steps

  • Apply to the University by the posted deadline
  • Declare Liberal Studies as your major
  • File your Intent to Enroll (after acceptance)
  • Attend Liberal Studies Orientation session*

Transfer students: please look at www.assist.org (instructions) to determine the equivalent courses you may take at your community college to meet the CSUSM Liberal Studies Major requirements.*

*To obtain further advising and evaluations you must attend an Orientation session.