Online Education & Teaching Programs in California: Comparing Schools

Earn Your Associate Degree in Education

An associate degree program is an ideal choice for students who are interested in education but not ready to commit to a four-year program. These two-year degree programs provide core skills and introduce students to key topics like child development, classroom management, and educational techniques.

Although an associate degree alone won’t qualify you for K-12 teaching positions, it does open doors to valuable roles such as teaching assistant, preschool teacher, or instructional aide. Some programs also incorporate elements of early childhood education, which can be an ideal fit if you’re passionate about working with children.

Education Bachelor’s Programs Online

If you want to become a teacher in California, earning a bachelor’s degree in education is the essential first step. These programs are typically completed in four years. They blend practical classroom experience with coursework that covers child psychology, classroom management, and curriculum design.

Students in these programs engage directly with children through supervised teaching placements, which lets them apply theoretical lessons to real-world classroom settings. This practical experience builds skills, confidence, and readiness to teach effectively.

A bachelor’s degree fulfills most state certification requirements. It also prepares graduates for rewarding teaching roles across California’s public and private schools, where opportunities for educators are abundant and steadily growing.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs

A master’s degree program in education in California offers two clear pathways, tailored to students’ career goals and current experience level. It provides a direct route to teacher certification for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in another subject, as it combines coursework in teaching methods and curriculum design with hands-on classroom practice.

Licensed educators often choose a master’s degree program to deepen their expertise, qualify for higher salaries, and/or move into specialized roles such as curriculum coordinator or school administrator. Many educators – especially teachers and education majors – find that a master’s degree opens doors to more specialized roles.

Education Doctoral Degrees & Graduate Certificates

Doctoral degrees in education generally come in two forms, and each serves different career goals. An EdD prepares students for practical leadership positions such as school principal, superintendent, or curriculum director. It emphasizes hands-on skills and administrative expertise.

In contrast, a PhD focuses on research, theory, and academic scholarship. This type of degree is ideal for students who are pursuing a career in higher education or educational research.

Graduate certificates take less time to earn than degrees. They offer specialized training for educators who want to quickly advance in their career, add new skills, and/or move into new areas of expertise.

FAQs from Education and Teaching Students in California

How can I verify that an online education and teaching degree program in California is properly accredited?

When evaluating online education and teaching degree programs, students should ensure that the school has regional accreditation. This typically comes from the Accrediting Commission for Schools – Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC) in California. Teaching degree programs should be approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Regional accreditation proves the overall academic quality of a program and is necessary for a degree to be widely recognized. CTC approval is crucial for teacher preparation programs; it means the program meets state standards and makes graduates eligible for California licensure.

Students can check the CTC website for a list of approved institutions and programs, or look at a university’s website for statements like “CTC-approved” or “WASC-accredited.”

Choosing a degree program with these accreditations ensures that graduates’ credentials will be recognized by schools and the state licensing board. It also ensures that they are able to transfer credits or pursue advanced degrees later without issues. ​

How do online education and teaching degree programs in California prepare students for licensure, and are there any special requirements to be aware of?

Online teaching degree programs in California closely align with the same licensure standards as traditional campus-based programs. If a chosen program is CTC-approved, successful completion qualifies graduates for a preliminary teaching credential in California.

Coursework typically includes foundational subjects like pedagogy, content standards, instructional methods, and educational theory. Practical classroom experience, including student teaching or internships, is also required, even for primarily online programs.

Additionally, students without a bachelor’s degree must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST); prospective teachers must pass the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) unless they are exempted.

Prospective teachers must also complete a California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA) and, if they’re pursuing elementary or special education credentials, the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA). After these requirements are met, a university can officially recommend students to the CTC for their credentials.

What kind of flexibility can I expect in an online education and teaching degree program in California, especially if I work while studying?

California’s online education and teaching degree programs offer flexibility for working professionals. With online learning formats, classes are typically asynchronous, so students can log in, access materials, and complete assignments according to their schedule each week. This set-up helps balance educational commitments with students’ jobs and personal lives.

Note that student teaching requirements must be fulfilled on-site at K-12 schools during regular school hours. If this creates scheduling conflicts, some programs might provide an internship pathway. In this arrangement, students work as paid classroom teachers while simultaneously completing their credentials and coursework. This offers a practical solution to integrate learning and employment responsibilities.

What specialized credentials or subject endorsements can I earn in California?

California offers specialized credentials beyond standard single-subject or multiple-subject credentials. Popular options include Bilingual Authorizations (BCLAD certificate), Special Education credentials (for children with mild/moderate or moderate/severe disabilities), and Career Technical Education endorsements.

For example, California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) offers an Education Specialist Instruction Credential that is designed specifically for Early Childhood Special Education. It prepares graduates for specialized teaching roles.

These additional credentials make graduates more marketable and enable them to teach diverse student groups or niche subjects. They also complement the broad insights gained by earning an education degree that can open up many avenues.

Are scholarships or financial aid programs available specifically for future teachers in California?

Yes; financial aid options for future teachers, including scholarships and dedicated financial aid programs, are often available to eligible candidates. Students can apply for standard federal aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

California offers targeted programs like the Golden State Teacher Grant, which provides up to $20,000 to students in high-need teaching fields.

Additionally, Teach for America provides stipends for graduates who are placed in California schools. TEACH Grants at the federal level can further offset tuition for students who agree to teach in low-income districts after graduation.

Prospective students should always connect with each school’s financial aid office (before enrolling in a program) to determine which unique teacher-focused scholarships they might be eligible for.

Career Outlook for California Teachers & Educators

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Resources for Education/Teaching Students and Professionals in CA

Various tailored resources are available to support education and teaching students and professionals. Whether you’re seeking scholarships, exploring teaching credentials, or looking for mentorship and job opportunities, these resources can help you navigate career choices, advance your skills, and easily connect with others who share your passion for education in California.

• California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC): This organization provides straightforward guidance on credential requirements, renewals, and approved teaching degree programs. It helps educators clearly understand certification processes and efficiently plan their careers in schools statewide.
• California Early Childhood Online (CECO): This organization offers free online courses and training materials designed specifically for California’s early childhood educators. It provides a convenient way to earn permits, develop professionally, and improve early education practices.
• California Federation of Teachers (CFT): This organization advocates for educators’ rights statewide and provides resources, scholarship opportunities, and professional development tools. It ensures that teachers in California are supported in their careers and classrooms through effective representation.
• California School Employees Association (CSEA): This organization supports school employees with continuing education webinars, resources, and discounted services. It facilitates collaboration among teachers, administrators, and school staff to enhance the overall educational environment.
• California Student Aid Commission (CSAC): This organization administers vital financial aid programs like the Cal Grant and Golden State Teacher Grant. It specifically supports education students in California by making higher education and teacher preparation more affordable.
• California Teachers Association (CTA): This organization offers valuable networking events, educational seminars, scholarships, and grants for students who are pursuing teaching careers. It helps educators connect with peers and access resources to support their ongoing professional development.
• EDJOIN: This organization is California’s largest education-specific job platform. It lists K-12 teaching, administrative, and support roles from over 900 districts and simplifies the job search and application process across the state’s education landscape.

California’s Top Online Education and Teaching Schools