Music Teaching Credential

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Students intending to teach music in the California public schools must demonstrate subject-matter competence prior to admission to the Single Subject Credential program. This may be done either by: (a) completing the coursework for the Single Subject Matter Preparation Program (SSMPP); or (b) passing subject-matter tests specified by the State of California (CSET) and administered by the Educational Testing Service. Applications are accepted only in the spring for the credential program beginning the subsequent fall. In both cases, an interview and certain competence examinations administered by the Music Education area must be passed prior to enrolling in the Single Subject Credential Program in Music (which includes student teaching).

The following courses are prerequisite to admission to the Credential program for students who choose to complete SSMPP coursework in lieu of taking the subject matter examination (CSET). These courses are intended to be taken concurrently with degree work.

Instrumental Emphasis (25 units)

Choral Emphasis (23 units)

General Music Emphasis (21 units)

Additional Information

Prior to admission to the Single Subject Credential Program in Music, the student must have completed all SSMPP requirements, including the bachelor’s degree, with the recital (MUS 398) completed.

Applicants for the Single Subject Credential Program in Music must also demonstrate functional ability in keyboard and voice. Keyboard competence may be shown either by successful audition or completion of MUS 282B (Piano Class for Music Majors) with a “B” (3.0) or better. Vocal competence may be shown either by successful audition or completion of MUS 283 (voice class) with a “B” (3.0) or better.

A minimum GPA of 2.75 in the last 60 units of coursework is required for admission to the Single Subject Credential Program in Music.

The prospective Single Subject Credential student must pass the CBEST (California Basic Education Skills Test), as well as an assessment interview with the Music Education faculty. In the interview the applicant is expected to demonstrate musical and interpersonal skills essential to music teaching, as well as an overall synthesis of learning.

Once accepted into the Single Subject Credential in Music, students must complete the following 31 units to earn the preliminary Single Subject Credential:

Music Education

MUSE 442 - Principles and Methods of Teaching Music in the Public Schools (3)