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Featured Program: Online Undergraduate and Graduate Education Degree Programs
Featured Program: Bachelor of Arts in English
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California State Superintendent of Public schools recently released a message about teacher layoffs in California. The downturn in the economy saw a percentage of teachers in California receive pink slips. This may be a concern for new teachers, but it’s not the entire picture.
California is expecting the total student population to rise by 4% in the next ten years. This growth means that more teachers will be needed, especially in the critical areas such as English. As of late 2014, there is a shortage of qualified English teachers in the state. Coupled with the fact that there are scores of teacher retirements looming, the prospects for a job as an English teacher in California are very good. After considering the following steps to become an English teacher, you may find it’s the job you always wanted.
 | Educational Preparation |
 | Testing |
 | Pursue a State Issued Teaching Credential |
 | Continue Professional Development |
Step 1. Educational Preparation
The first step for the aspiring English teacher in California is to complete an approved educational program. The program will train you to become a teacher and prepare you for your major as well. Each college and university listed will have various choices for you to consider. One decision you want to make is whether or not to incorporate a master’s degree into your education, or complete the minimum bachelor’s degree with the added time for the teacher preparation portion.
Once you decide which degree level you desire, you can select from the specific programs. Here are a few examples of degree programs in California for teachers:
- M.A in Education
- M.A. in Teaching
- B.A. in Secondary Education/ English
- B.S. in Early Childhood Development
Internship Program
California also offers options for those who wish to enter teaching that may be transferring out of another industry. If you already have a degree you may find this works well for you. Many schools will offer internship programs to candidates with the following:
- Already have a degree in English
- Passed the basic skills exam (see “testing” below)
- Have an assigned mentor teacher at the school you plan to work
- Completed a course in U.S. history or pass a test given by a college to waive this requirement
- Complete the application
- Have a Live Scan fingerprint set completed
- Complete a teacher preparation program or pass a test for subject competency
- Create a Professional Development Plan
- Take any additional courses required by the district
Whichever route you take, testing will be part of the credential requirement for everyone — the next step in the process.
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Step 2. Testing
Once you have finished with school you can register to take the necessary tests that all teacher candidates must take. There are different tests that show proficiency in different areas.
As an English teacher, you will have to prove subject proficiency as well as basic skills knowledge and an understanding of the use of technology in the classroom. California also requires teachers to have a general understanding of teaching to second language learners due to the highly diverse population in the state. The three tests that you will take are as follows:
California allows candidates to register for their test datesonline. You will have the convenience of also being able to retrieve information from this site once you register including obtaining the results of your tests. After you have your passing scores, you will be eligible to apply for your Credential.
Step 3: Pursue a State Issued Teaching Credential
California requires all full-time teachers to have a teaching credential. If you are teaching younger children (K-6), you will apply for a Multiple Subject Credential. If you plan on teaching middle school and up, you will apply for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in English.
The first credential you receive- a Preliminary Credential – will be valid up to five years. In order to qualify for the credential, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Complete the Teacher preparation program
- Pass the Basic Skills CBEST and CSET in English
- Complete the educational requirements:
- Completion of a B.A., B.S., M.A., or M.A.T., degree in education or single subject English (secondary school teachers only)
- Pass an ESL requirement
- Pass a S. Constitution course
- Pass a technology course
When you are ready to apply for a credential, you will need to have a Live Scan fingerprint set created. There is a fee for both the Live Scan set and for processing the application. You will also have to have a current TB test (current within 60 days of employment).
Once you have taught for five years, you will be eligible to clear your credential and move from probationary status to permanent. The Clear Credential is available when you have met all the requirements.
Step 4: Continue Professional Development
Professional development in California has changed over the last several years. The verification process for professional growth isn’t a requirement in order to renew the professional clear credential. You will still need to accumulate 150 hours of education and activities that will expand your teaching knowledge, however. Your individual school will likely have some form of record keeping for this.
Another new item is an addition of stipends for highly qualified teachers. These may be in the form of thousands of dollars added when you pursue an advance degree and/or pass the stringent National Board Exam.
For teachers wishing to further their career, continuing a college education can pay off in the long run. It not only satisfies the professional growth requirement to clear your credential, but it will add to your salary, plus you may have opportunities for other special programs in some California schools.
With the new focus on highly educated teachers, some schools are seeking grants to give as incentives to teachers willing to invest in becoming master teachers. They also have programs that may allow for mentoring. These types of funds are subject to outside monies so they are not always available. Salary stipends that are paid for each degree level, however, are part of standard contracts.
California English Teacher Salaries
California is the longest state in the Union. It is over 1200 miles long flanked by beautiful Pacific Coastlines to the west, Sierra Nevada Mountains in the middle and the Mojave and Great Basin Deserts to the south. As a prospective teacher living in California, you will soon discover that the teacher salaries in the state differ just as much as the vast terrain. Depending on which parts of the state you live in there can be quiet a gap in earnings.
For instance in the small forested town of Paradise, California near the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, an entry level English teacher with a bachelor’s degree will start at $35,370 a year. In the San Francisco Bay Area town of Los Gatos this same teacher will earn $51,204 their first year. Here are two other possible examples:
San Diego
- Entry: $ 42,209.82
- Experienced: $ 52,514.09
San Jose
- Entry: $ 48,588
- Experienced: $ 48,588
Salaries will change depending on where you live, how long you teach, and usually by how much you invest in your education. Of course there are always exceptions to the rule. As you can see from the example above, San Jose Unified School District is somewhat unique. It pays first- year teachers the same salary no matter what their level of education.
After the third year—the year that a teacher typically can earn permanent status in this district—the education begins to affect a salary benefit. In the third year an English teacher with a bachelor’s will still earn $48,588, but a teacher with a bachelor’s plus sixty post-graduate units will earn $53,740. Additionally, they would also earn a stipend of $2,750 if they turn those sixty units into a master’s degree.
More English teacher salary information in other major California cities is available below:
Area Name
Employment
Annual Mean Salary
Annual Median Salary
Annual 75th Percentile Salary
Annual 90th Percentile Salary
Bakersfield-Delano CA
50
95060
91230
111450
131320
Fresno CA
160
Estimate Not Released
Estimate Not Released
Estimate Not Released
Estimate Not Released
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale CA Metropolitan Division
1800
83590
73140
110980
146460
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana CA
2380
89880
81710
124930
147160
Oakland-Fremont-Hayward CA Metropolitan Division
480
79110
71240
96330
137290
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario CA
490
96050
92650
120210
155130
Sacramento--Arden-Arcade--Roseville CA
290
75840
73780
95890
121360
San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos CA
850
82830
70330
106420
149540
San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont CA
1430
73320
62800
93550
130280
San Francisco-San Mateo-Redwood City CA Metropolitan Division
960
70440
58680
91840
126810
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara CA
500
61720
54640
81090
108450
Santa Ana-Anaheim-Irvine CA Metropolitan Division
580
109230
121820
137990
147710
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FAQs
What do you need to be an English teacher in California? ›
In California, the minimum education requirement for teacher certification is a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. You must also complete a teacher preparation program approved by the CTC. An approved program provides both educational curriculum and fieldwork.
What degree do you need to teach English? ›A minimum of a bachelor's degree is required to become an English teacher. For traditional-route educators in K-12 schools, the bachelor's program should include a teacher preparation program that is approved by the state board of education.
How long does it take to become an English teacher in California? ›Program completion takes four year and may include summer classes. The Elementary Subject Matter (ESM) option leads to a Liberal Studies, B.A. degree followed by the multiple subject credential program.
Do I need an English degree to be an English teacher? ›The minimum educational requirement for English teachers is a bachelor's degree in English, education or English education. Many colleges offer a specialized English education degree program, which provides all of the instruction needed to start teaching English at the high school level.
What exams do California teachers need to take? ›Individuals only need to pass The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) once; CBEST passing scores remain valid indefinitely for all credential and employment purposes. To pass the CBEST, one must obtain a minimum scaled score of 41 in each of the three sections—reading, writing, and mathematics.
How do I get teacher certification in California? ›California Teachers Licensing Application Process
Verified completion of an approved teacher preparation program. Passing scores on all required examinations. Live Scan fingerprints and certificate of clearance. A completed application for teacher credentialing.
CELTA from Cambridge is a qualification for teaching English as a foreign language. It is the most widely recognised English teaching qualification in the world and the most often requested by employers; three out of four English language teaching jobs require a CELTA qualification*.
Can you teach English with a bachelor degree? ›Bachelor's Degree in English Teaching
To pursue a job in teaching, you must earn a bachelor's degree. Although an English degree or related coursework is required in some states, other states allow you to teach any subject, as long as you pass its PRAXIS exam.
At the very least you'll need a teaching certification or post-graduate certificate of education (PGCE). There are also other programs like DELTA, CELTA and TEFL certifications that many schools accept as a teaching qualification.
Can I be a teacher without a degree? ›All states require teachers to have a license to teach in the public school systems. A bachelor's degree is also considered a minimum requirement for full-time teachers in K-12 schools across the country. From there, the requirements for getting a license vary state by state.
Is it hard to be a teacher in California? ›
Your first step in becoming a teacher in California is to determine whether the role is a good fit for your personal and professional goals. Teaching is a challenging job that requires patience and commitment. Though highly rewarding, it is not for everyone.
Is English teacher a good career? ›It is a rewarding career that offers an opportunity to teach children and non-English-speaking adults. Learning more about this career may help you understand if it suits your aspirations.
How much do English teachers make in California? ›The average salary for a english teacher in California is $49,500 per year. English teacher salaries in California can vary between $19,000 to $91,000 and depend on various factors, including skills, experience, employer, bonuses, tips, and more. Was this helpful?
Are English teachers in demand? ›Yes! There are over a billion people currently learning English globally. As a result, online teaching opportunities are surfacing around the world to keep up with demand.
How many years is a BS degree? ›A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete, but that time can vary – especially if you're earning an online bachelor's degree.
How much does it cost to become a teacher in California? ›| California | National | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Four-Year) | $29,173 | $25,657 |
| Average Tuition and Fees (Private Four-Year) | $33,483 | $30,731 |
| Average In-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $1,268 | $3,243 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $7,504 | $7,971 |
The amount of time it takes to earn a teaching credential depends on your chosen program and pathway. A traditional, non-accelerated college or university program takes four to five years, assuming you complete each course successfully the first time. Internships may take longer depending on the institution you choose.
How much do California high school teachers make? ›The average salary for a high school teacher in California is around $96,390 per year.
What are the requirements for a teaching certificate? ›- Minimum grade C+ Plus in KCSE and above.
- C+ (plus) in the two subjects specialization.
- At least C plain in English.
- C (plain) in Mathematics.
- Minimum grade C Plus in KCSE and above and C+ (plus) in the two subjects specialization.
California requires 600 hours of student teaching, nearly double the requirement of other states. Student teachers are not paid and student teaching typically lasts for an entire academic year. Thus, most teacher candidates cannot work and student teach at the same time (or it is very difficult to do so).
How much do elementary teachers get paid in California? ›
The average salary for a elementary school teacher in California is $54,500 per year.
How do I get an English teaching certificate? ›You generally have three options when it comes to getting TEFL certified: taking an online course, attending home-based on-site course, or getting certified abroad. Each option offers different advantages and challenges, and each one carries with it its own price tag.
What is a bachelor's degree in English? ›A bachelor's in English is a versatile degree. Students learn to read, write research, and speak. These skills can apply across various career fields. English majors can pursue careers in marketing, writing, and management.
Which is better CELTA or TEFL? ›Because CELTA course content is also geared towards people interested in teaching adults, a TEFL certificate might be the better option if you're interested in teaching English to young learners.
Is a TEFL certificate worth it? ›Is TEFL Certification worth it? Yes. If you want to get a good teaching job and be an effective teacher for your students, then it is definitely worth it. Remember, most schools worldwide require a TEFL certification; and once you're certified you can the ball rolling on applying and interviewing for jobs.
Can I teach English abroad with an associate's degree? ›Can I teach English abroad with an associate's degree? Yes. With an associate's degree and a TEFL certification, you can teach English abroad in more than 50 countries, from Costa Rica to Taiwan. Some countries like South Korea & Japan require a 4-year degree, but you still have many options.
How do I pass a teaching interview? ›- Convey your passion for teaching and students.
- Research the institution where you're interviewing.
- Express your willingness to learn.
- Share only positive stories about past students, employees and employers.
- Politely smile and remain positive throughout the entire interview.
- What inspired you to become a teacher?
- How would you describe your teaching style?
- What teaching methods do you use?
- What steps do you take to ensure your students understand the lesson?
- Tell me about your qualifications.
- Do you have any certifications?
- Tell me about yourself. ...
- Can you tell me about a time you've failed? ...
- If I walked into your classroom during an outstanding lesson, what would I see and hear?
The average salary for a english teacher in California is $49,500 per year. English teacher salaries in California can vary between $19,000 to $91,000 and depend on various factors, including skills, experience, employer, bonuses, tips, and more. Was this helpful?
Can I teach in California without a credential? ›
Can I Teach in California Without a Credential? While it's not possible to teach in a California public school without a credential, you could still work in the following positions: Private school teacher: According to California state regulations, teacher certification is optional for private schools.
Can I be a teacher without a degree? ›All states require teachers to have a license to teach in the public school systems. A bachelor's degree is also considered a minimum requirement for full-time teachers in K-12 schools across the country. From there, the requirements for getting a license vary state by state.
Is it hard to be a teacher in California? ›Your first step in becoming a teacher in California is to determine whether the role is a good fit for your personal and professional goals. Teaching is a challenging job that requires patience and commitment. Though highly rewarding, it is not for everyone.
What state is the highest paid for teachers? ›Pennsylvania, California and New York have the highest average teacher salaries in the country, compared to all other occupations.
Do teachers get paid in the summer? ›No, teachers do not get paid in the summer holidays if they are on break. They may, however, receive paychecks for work done during the school year, as many teachers have their pay spread out over the full 12-month period.
What school district pays teachers the most in California? ›- Solana Beach Elementary School District, $141,209.
- Carmel Unified School District, $121,948.
- Tahoe-Truckee Unified School District, $106,017.
- Laguna Beach Unified School District, $127,138.
- Arcadia Unified School District, $111,323.
As of Oct 9, 2022, the average annual pay for a Teacher Internship in California is $37,800 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $18.17 an hour. This is the equivalent of $726/week or $3,150/month.
How difficult is the Rica exam? ›The RICA is difficult and will demand some serious study time. You should plan on spending an hour or two every day for about eight weeks to fully prepare. Taking a diagnostic test before you begin will help you know how much time you should spend studying.
How many years is the CBEST good for? ›The ten-year validity period does not apply to CBEST scores. Once the CBEST examination has been passed, it need not be taken again since it indefinitely satisfies the basic skills requirement necessary for certification and program enrollment.
What qualifications do you need to teach? ›Entry requirements
You'll usually need: 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths. 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree. a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course.
How do I start a career in teaching? ›
You may follow one of two routes in becoming a teacher, namely: a four-year Bachelor of Education degree (B. Ed.); a three-or four-year Bachelor's degree, followed by a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
What is a teaching degree called? ›Master of Arts in Teaching
It is commonly required for middle and high school teachers to earn a master's degree in a teaching field. One example of a typical program is a Master of Arts in Teaching.
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3. Location of your School.
| District | San Francisco Unified |
|---|---|
| Teachers | 3,660 |
| Average salary | $75,872 |
| Median home price* | $1.3 million |
Districts throughout the state have struggled to fill teacher vacancies. The teacher shortage has struck most districts in California, but an EdSource survey shows that the impacts are nuanced, uneven — and sometimes inequitable.
How much does it cost to become a teacher in California? ›| California | National | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Four-Year) | $29,173 | $25,657 |
| Average Tuition and Fees (Private Four-Year) | $33,483 | $30,731 |
| Average In-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $1,268 | $3,243 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition and Fees (Public Two-Year) | $7,504 | $7,971 |