Should I become a high school english or math teacher?
Favorite Answer
I started my career with my biology credential. I eventually wanted to teach math. Since I am a middle school teacher I only needed to have what is called a mathematics supplemental authorization. This allows me to teach math up to grade 9. If I wanted to teach high school math, I would need a full math credential. All this entails is passing subject matter competency. 2 tests to teach algebra and geometry, a third test to teach up to calculus.
UCLA has a great supplemental program for teachers. graduates of the program are considered highly qualified.
here is a link to the program
http://www.math.ucla.edu/mcpt/program_info.htm
To obtain a full mathematics credential all you need to do is look at the cctc web site, they spell it all out for you.
Do be sure you check on CA’s standards for “highly qualified,” what coursework it involves for either licensure as “add-on,” or, if it only requires testing. Do be aware that things have changed with NCLB, and full licensure is not granted so freely as once it was, particularly in these core areas.