The Subject Matter Preparation Program in Social ScienceA growing national demand for teachers has revived interest in education careers. The State of California recognizes a "subject matter preparation program" in History. This course of study exempts those who complete it from taking the National Teachers Examination. The Program specifies a number of courses in history and in three broad areas that provide the foundation for teaching history in high school. For additional information on the requirements or application procedures, please contact the Program Director: Professor Robert Senkewicz Lower Division Requirements: Upper Division Requirements: General Breadth Requirements: (take either first set or second set) HIST 105 – Modern World History Social Science Requirements: Recommended Electives: Frequently Asked Questions: Q: What do I have to do to get a secondary teaching credential in social science in the state of California? A: You must (1) earn a baccalaureate degree in History or Social Science from an accredited institution such as Santa Clara University;(2) complete a state-approved subject matter preparation program in social science or pass a subject area exam before being admitted to an approved program of professional education; (3) complete an additional fifth year of study in an approved program of professional education; and, (4) pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) Q: If I successfully complete the Subject Matter Preparation Program in Social Science at Santa Clara University, will I have to take the subject area examination before being admitted to a teacher credential program? A: No. You must either successfully complete a state-approved teacher preparation program or take the subject area examination before admission to a fifth year teacher credential program. The completion of the Subject Matter Preparation Program in Social Studies at Santa Clara will exempt you from the exam. Q: Why can't I get a secondary teaching credential in History? A: The State of California no longer issues a single subject teaching credential in History and has replaced it with one in Social Science. The teacher preparation program at Santa Clara prepares you to teach the subjects that are most commonly taught in history and social science classes in secondary schools. Q: How does the Social Science Preparation Program differ from the History major? A: The program requirements are very specific, see above for specific classes. |
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