Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the benefit of a PK-3 Credential?

Having a ECE Credential will allow you: 

  • Access higher wage ECE jobs
  • Access to benefit packages
  • Access to professional development opportunities
  • Become a member of a teacher union through a school district
  • Teach Pre-School, Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First grade, Second grade and Third grade
If a teacher has their Multiple Subject (MS) credential, what do they need to earn their PK-3 credential?

Since the PK-3 credential does not require CSET, Multiple Subject teachers need to meet the PK-3 subject matter requirement (24 units ECE/CD prior to entering the PK-3 credential clinical practice.

Is a MS credential holder without PK experience required to get a PK-3 credential to teach in PK and TK?
MS credential holders are not authorized to teach preschool and can only teach TK with the required 24 semester units of ECE /CD coursework.  See CTC credentialing requirements  for more information. If a MS credential holder wants to teach TK, the MS credential holder must complete 24 ECE/CD semester units. See https://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/assignment-resources/transitional-kindergarten for more information.
Are the CBEST and CSET required for the PK-3 credential?
The CBEST and CSET are not required for this credential.
What undergraduate majors prepare students to enter the PK-3 credential program?

Undergraduate majors at CSUDH that prepare students for the PK-3 credential program typically include a BS in Child Development (Early Development and Learning option), a BA in Liberal Studies (Early Teaching & Learning, Educating Children with Disabilities, or Spanish option) and a minor in Child Development (available from Fall 2025). Other majors are welcome to apply for the program but must meet subject matter prior to enter clinical practice. Please join an information session or visit our website (csudh.edu/pk3-ece) for more complete detailed information.

What does clinical practice look like in the PK-3 ECE Credential?
Candidates are required to complete a minimum of 600 hours of clinical practice and must include a minimum of 200 hours of clinical practice in a PK/TK setting, a minimum 200 hours in a K-3 setting. The additional 200 hours can come from either setting.
I have prior experience working as a preschool teacher. Can I use some of my experience to apply for clinical practice?

Candidates may apply for clinical practice equivalency for up to 200 hours. All candidates are expected to meet the TPE competencies and complete both cycles of the CalTPA during clinical practice. There are two options to receive clinical practice equivalency for the PK/TK setting. See https://www.ctc.ca.gov/docs/default-source/educator-prep/standards/pk-3-ece-specialist-instruction-credential-faq.pdf?sfvrsn=622322b1_3 for more information.

What funding is available for PK-3 Credential candidates?

We are offering up to $5,000 per semester for up to 3 semesters for students enrolled in 9 or more units. Additional funding may be available in the form of state and federal aid, so applicants are encouraged to submit a FAFSA along with their application.

What are alternative career pathways with the PK-3 ECE Credential besides teaching?

School District Curriculum Specialist, Directors, Counselors, Administrators, and Program Coordinators