Pre-Service Educators
There are two pathways into teaching theatre in California public schools. One is to pass the CSET exam, then enter a credentialing program based at a university or college in the state. The exam is aligned to the CA Arts Standards. If you are coming out of an undergraduate program in theatre (BA or BFA) it will be helpful if that program’s curriculum is aligned to these standards to ensure your preparedness to successfully pass the exam.
Another option is that you could waive the CSET requirement for entering a credential program if you participate in a Commission-approved Subject Matter Program (this could be a “pre-teacher track” in a 4-year university Theatre Program or at a Junior College). This type of program is usually about 24 units.
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So you want to teach theatre?
Teaching Theatre in Ca Schools
Single-Subject Teaching Credential in Theatre
This credential authorizes the educator to teach Theatre to TK-12 grade students through the CA Arts Standards in Theatre. An educator with this credential can grant VAPA/Fine Arts credit to students. Note: to teach English, a Theatre credentialed teacher would need to add the Single-Subject English credential by passing the English CSET and taking a 3 semester-unit or 4 quarter-unit methodology course in a teacher education program.
Those educators who hold a English credential issued AFTER January, 1, 2023 are only authorized to teach English (not Theatre). Note: In order for that educator to teach English and Theatre, they would need to add the Single-Subject English credential or Subject Matter Authorization in English to their existing Theatre authorization.
Single-Subject Teaching Credential in English
Educators who hold an English Credential issued BEFORE January 1, 2023 are authorized to teach Theatre under this credential.
Those educators who hold a Theatre credential issued AFTER January, 1, 2023 are only authorized to teach Theatre (not English). Note: In order for that educator to teach English as well, they would need to add the Single-Subject English credential or Subject Matter Authorization in English to their existing Theatre.
CTE Credential: Arts, Media, and Entertainment
Educators who hold a Career Technical Education (CTE) credential in Arts, Media and Entertainment are authorized to teach Theatre and Technical Theatre curriculum within CTE pathways at the high school level or an introductory course at the middle school level aligned with a high school CTE pathway. CTE credential holders in Arts, Media and Entertainment may only teach performing arts courses that are aligned with the CTE Model Curriculum Standards. Individuals must have significant industry experience to qualify for a CTE credential.
Supplementary & Subject Matter Authorizations in Theatre
A Supplementary Authorization in Theatre can only be added to an existing Single-Subject credential. Subject Matter Authorizations (SMA) in Theatre can be added to either a Single-Subject or Multiple-Subject credential. Introductory SMAs authorize service in grades 9 and below, while Specific SMAs authorize service in grades K-12.