Santa Clara University

Credential Programs

1. Completion of the online admissions application with a $50 nonrefundable application fee.
2. A written statement of purpose that describes the applicant’s reason for entering the teaching profession.
3. Two sets of official transcripts from all domestic and international colleges and universities attended.
4. Overall grade point average of 2.75 with 3.0 in the academic major.
5. Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (NEASC, NCA, MSA, SACS, WASC, NWCCU) by the time of enrollment.
6. Three letters of recommendation. Recommendations from family members or personal friends will not be considered.

7. Successful completion of the CBEST.

8. Special Education applicants must submit either the GRE or MAT test scores. GRE and MAT scores are valid for five years.
9. Demonstrated competence in reading, writing, and speaking English.
10. Evidence of successful practicum work, community service, and/or experience with children or youth groups.
11. Formal interview with faculty from the Teacher Credential Program. Appointments for the interview will be arranged once all supporting application documents are on file with the Graduate Services Office.

Note: It is highly recommended that applicants complete the subject-matter requirement by passing the appropriate subject-matter examination (CSET) before beginning a credential program. Subject-matter competence must be met and on file before students enroll in Education 321 (winter quarter).

Prior to applying, Level II Special Education applicants must have completed an approved Level I program at an accredited university. New Level II applicants to Santa Clara University must submit an online application, statement of purpose, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a copy of their Level I credential. Santa
Clara University Level I alums must submit an online application and statement of purpose only (verification of Level I will be conducted by the Graduate Services Office).

Master of Arts programs
(Interdisciplinary Education, Special Education, Educational Administration)

1. Completion of the online admissions application with a $50 nonrefundable application fee (application fee is waived for current credential candidates).
2. A written statement of purpose that describes the applicant’s reason for entering the master’s program.
3. Two sets of official transcripts from all domestic and international colleges and universities attended (not required for current credential candidates).
4. Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (NEASC, NCA, MSA, SACS, WASC, NWCCU) by the time of enrollment (not required for current credential candidates).
5. Three letters of recommendation. Recommendations from family members or personal friends will not be considered (one letter from a qualified supervisor or someone who has observed the applicant’s teaching or work experience for current credential candidates).
6. Special Education applicants must submit either the GRE or MAT test scores. GRE and MAT scores are valid for five years.
7. Evidence of written and oral English proficiency.
8. Applicants to the Reading Certification, Reading Language Arts Specialist Certification and the Preliminary Administrative Services credential must provide proof of a valid teaching credential.