According to leading education platform EdSource, California has been experiencing a "booming demand for career technical teachers," leading to the state's massive push to train more qualified educators to supply this demand.
The Career Technical Education (CTE) Credential Program integrates core academic knowledge with previous technical and occupational experience. The program’s high-quality curriculum is designed to reflect the changing needs of modern workplace environments and prepare graduates to successfully compete in global industries.
Submit a Preliminary CTE evaluation request form and supporting documents to CSULB Credential Center. The form and detailed instructions are available at:
If eligible, a CTC state application and fee will be requested and CSULB will recommend you for a Preliminary 3-Year CTE Credential.
Teachers with prior industry experience
Those who hold a Valid CA Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) Multiple Subject, Single Subject or Education Specialist Credential, with an English Learner Authorization and at least one year of teaching experience
Increase job opportunities
Help students connect college preparation with post-secondary career readiness
Work with career pathways via Linked Learning
Connect school experience to the industry sector
Understanding of essential CTE concepts
Development as a professional educator
Collaboration with other educators as well as the school and business communities
Demonstration of strategies which promote school improvement for all students
How to use research to improve teaching and solve educational problems
To successfully clear your credential requirements, participants must:
Complete CSULB course CTED 403A - Foundations of Career Technical Education (2 units)
Complete 1 year of CTE teaching experience while holding the Preliminary CTE Credential
Meet CTC additional state requirements for Health Education, valid CPR training, and the U.S. Constitution
Submit application packet to the CSULB Credential Center
Kirstie DeBiase (EdD) is the Academic Dean and Assistant Professor of the General Education Department at West Coast University. Her educational path includes a BA in Intercultural Studies with a TESOL minor from BIOLA University, a Multiple Studies credential with BCLAD in Spanish from LBUSD, a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Phoenix, and an EdD in Educational Leadership from CSULB. DeBiase has worked in career and technical education in various faculty and administrative positions, in both public and private sectors, for more than 20 years.
Kirstie DeBiase, Academic Dean and Assistant Professor, General Education Department at West Coast University