Pre-Teaching Credential Pathway

Liberal Studies, B.A. · UC Merced

Pre-Teaching Credential Pathway

Liberal Studies is the recommended major for students pursuing careers in elementary education.

No CSET exams

The Liberal Studies, B.A. meets California’s Subject Matter Competency requirement for the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (TK–8), so students do not need to take the CSET.

From major to classroom

One pathway, three stages

1

Undergraduate study

Liberal Studies, B.A.

  • A broad foundation for teaching multiple subjects
  • CalTeach guidance, courses, and field experiences
  • Optional Natural Sciences Education minor
2

Credential preparation

UC Merced Teacher Preparation Program

  • Multiple Subject pathways, in person and online
3

Career

Teaching

  • Elementary education: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (TK–8)

Program options

What each option satisfies

Option 1

Liberal Studies, B.A.

The degree on its own

  • Basic Skills requirement
  • Subject Matter Competency for the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (TK–8), with no CSET exams
  • Not included: fieldwork hours required for admission to teacher preparation programs
  • Not included: 8 units that count toward the major, the minor, and Multiple Subject credential requirements at UC Merced’s Teacher Preparation Program

Option 2

Liberal Studies, B.A. + Natural Sciences Education minor

Minor administered by CalTeach

  • Basic Skills requirement
  • Subject Matter Competency for the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (TK–8), with no CSET exams
  • Fieldwork hours required for admission to teacher preparation programs
  • 8 units that count toward the major, the minor, and Multiple Subject credential requirements at UC Merced’s Teacher Preparation Program

Think carefully before declaring an emphasis track

Only diplomas with the exact approved degree title, “Liberal Studies, B.A.”, satisfy Subject Matter Competency by degree title. Students who declare an emphasis track must take the CSET.

Plan your pathway

Explore next

Suggested CourseworkView pageComplementary Minor ProgramsView pageSample 2-Year Transfer PlanView pageResearch and Internship OpportunitiesView page