Secondary (Single Subject)
In California, those who want to teach high school generally major in the subject area they want to teach. Then, having completed the state subject-area requirements (see Subject Matter Preparation, below), they take a fifth year to complete a teaching credential.
Fast Track Option
It is often possible at Westmont, with careful planning and extra classes over the summer, to complete both the subject area requirements and the requirements for a preliminary credential in four years.
Subject Matter Preparation
In the spring before applying to the Credential program, candidates for secondary teaching take a subject-matter exam (the CSET) in the subject they wish to be credentialed in.
For students on a regular 4 + 1 year schedule, the exam would be taken in the spring of the senior year. For fast-track students, the exam would be taken spring of the junior year.
Westmont offers single-subject (typically for use in Grades 7-12) credentials in the following areas:
- Art
- English
- History/Social Science
- Mathematics
- Physical Education/Kinesiology
- Science - General
- Science - Biology
- Science - Chemistry
- Science - Physics
Students wishing to teach in another subject area not listed here (e.g., Spanish) may still complete their secondary credential at Westmont by passing the CSET examination in another area listed above and then applying for credentials in both areas.
Contact Dr. Gayle Tucker, 805-565-6165, for information on all Secondary programs, or refer to pertinent pages in the Westmont College catalog, under the Department of Education.
The math professors and the education professors worked together with me to give me a wonderful education. I was lucky to be able to attend Westmont because they truly prepared me to become a teacher. During my senior year in high school I started tutoring my friends in math and absolutely loved it, so I decided then and there to become a high school math teacher. I love the positive role and impact I have on my high schoolers’ lives. Not only do I get the opportunity to teach them math but I also am able to be a friend and mentor. Teaching is an awesome profession and if you have the heart for it, go for it! Westmont will do a fabulous job preparing you, by giving you the keys to know how to teach.
High School Teacher
Anaheim, CA
Listen to what secondary teachers say about their work:
Teaching gives me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people.
I feel a sense of mission and deep satisfaction with my career.
Teaching is a wonderful way to share my passion for History (or English or Art or Physics or Math…..).
A teaching career allows me to champion creativity in myself and my students
High school is such a pivotal time in a young person’s life. I know my modeling and conversations make an impact.
I love sports. Teaching high school gives me the chance to coach.
I don’t teach just because I get my summers off, but I love to travel so this profession affords me that opportunity. I’ve been all around the world!
Teaching high school and junior high keeps me young at heart.
I didn’t decide I wanted to teach until the end of my junior year at Westmont. I was surprised to learn I could still get my credential at Westmont in only one extra year.