Frequently Asked Questions
The program offers two pathways: Pathway 1 is completed in 3 semesters; Pathway 2 is completed in 2 years (4 semesters, may include some summer classes). Six classes in the program are offered in a cohort model in which everyone takes the same classes at the same time. Students on Pathway 2 have an additional 4 classes that are taken beyond the cohort requirements.
Pathway 1 is a fully online program designed for classroom teachers who completed an accredited post-baccalaureate credential program. These students complete 6 core classes and would potentially use 12 post-baccalaureate semester units to reach the 30 unit minimum required for the degree. Students may finish the program in three semesters.
Pathway 2 is designed for non-credentialed teachers who work in a private school or internationally and do not have a teaching credential. These students also complete 6 core classes as well as an additional 4 classes (12 units) that support their educational interests to reach the 30 unit minimum required for the degree. Students may finish the program in three or four semesters and classes are offered in a combination of online, hybrid and in-person.
Typical Pathway 1
- CSULB alumni who reserved credential courses for post-baccalaureate credit , or took classes in post-baccalaureate status, from an accredited university
- Non-CSULB alumni who reserved credential courses for post-baccalaureate, or took classes in post-baccalaureate status, from an accredited university
- Classes may not have been used toward another degree and must have been completed within 7 years
- Final review and guarantee of what will count toward Pathway 1 is made after students are offered admission
Typical Pathway 2
- Completed requirements for a teaching credential but did not earn post-baccalaureate units from an accredited university. For example, someone who completed a BA+credential program but did not reserve units for post-baccalaureate use or completed requirements through a district
- Private school teacher who does have a teaching credential
- International students who do not have a California teaching credential with post-baccalaureate units from an accredited university
- Classroom support staff who do not have a teaching credential
- Teach for America or other K-12 education professionals
- Those who have post-baccalaureate teaching credential units from an accredited university but completed more than 7 years ago
This program does not lead to earning a teaching credential. If you are interested in earning a teaching credential, please contact the CSULB Teacher Preparation Advising Center (TPAC). CSULB does not offer any programs that combine a teaching credential and master's degree.
Please visit the Application Process page.
The GPA requirement is a minimum 2.85 overall grade point average in last degree (not credential or certificate) earned from an accredited institution of higher education. For more information please see the Eligiblity page.
The application deadline is also the deadline for the letters of recommendation. For additional information on recommendations, please visit the Online Application Submission website.
You must submit one set of official transcripts from the college or university from which you earned your bachelor's degree. Pathway 1 applicants who did not complete coursework at CSULB will also submit official transcripts from the college or university from which you completed your post-baccalaureate teaching credential program. Please visit the Submit Official Transcript website for more information.
Graduate school fees are set by the CSU Board of Trustees each academic year. The current fee structure may be found on the Enrollment Services website. The approximate cost as of Fall 2021 ranges from an estimated cost of $7,965 for students on pathway 1 and $13,632 for pathway 2 for residents in California. There are many options available for financing your graduate education. Please see the Financing Your Education page.
