In a time when California schools continue to face a critical shortage of qualified STEM educators, Sac State’s College of Continuing Education (CCE) is helping to close the gap through its innovative Single Subject Science/Math Credentials program.

Designed for current K-12 educators, this program provides a streamlined, flexible, and equity-driven pathway to becoming credentialed to teach middle and high school mathematics or science.

A Program Built with Purpose

“For more than 10 years, there’s been a consistent need for high-quality STEM teachers in California,” shares Dr. Jenna Porter, Professor in the Teaching Credentials Department. “Our Math Science Teacher Initiative (MSTI) grant project has supported the development and support of this CCE program with the goal of increasing the number of single-subject math and science teachers in the region.”

The program responds to a statewide need with a practical solution: by offering hybrid-format courses that accommodate the professional and personal lives of working educators. Participants can earn a teaching credential in Foundational Level Mathematics or General Science, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, preparing them to teach in high-demand secondary school settings.

What to Expect from the Program

In just one summer course — EDSS 376 for math or EDSS 378 for science — participants receive focused instruction in content-specific pedagogy, alongside support for meeting subject matter competency requirements like the CSET. Once this coursework is completed, candidates can apply to add a single subject credential through the College of Education’s credential office.

This structure not only expedites the credentialing process but also allows teachers to expand their qualifications with minimal disruption to their current roles.

“Take one math or science methods course in the summer and get support with meeting subject matter competency,” Dr. Porter explains. “Once these requirements are met, apply to add the single subject credential through our College of Education credential office.”

For Teachers, By Teachers

The program is specifically designed for credentialed K–12 teachers, or those currently pursuing a credential, who are interested in expanding into secondary math or science instruction. It’s also an excellent opportunity for teachers with an existing single-subject credential to add additional authorizations, such as a science credential for math teachers, or vice versa.

One unique feature of the program is its commitment to developing a community of educators who can eventually return as instructors or assistants in the program themselves, enriching the experience for future cohorts with real-world insight.

Emphasis on Equity and Inclusion

The Single Subject Science/Math Credentials program does more than prepare educators to teach content, it prepares them to lead inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms. Dr. Porter, who teaches science and pedagogy courses within the credential program and co-teaches EDSP 293: Inclusive Strategies, brings her expertise in educational equity to every course she leads.

“My research, scholarly activities, and collaborations focus on policies for educational equity and promoting inclusive practices in science classrooms,” she says. This ethos is woven throughout the curriculum, ensuring that program graduates are not only subject matter experts but also advocates for all learners.

A Call to Future STEM Educators

“Are you an elementary teacher who’s considering teaching math or science in middle/high school?” asks Dr. Porter. “Add a single subject credential with just one class and get support for meeting subject matter competency.”

With hybrid flexibility, a focus on inclusion, and a streamlined path to expanded credentialing, CCE’s Single Subject Science/Math Credentials Program stands out as a transformative step for educators looking to grow professionally while making a greater impact in their communities.

Visit the Single Subject Science/Math Credentials Program page to learn more about the program or to apply.