Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential Program
What is a PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Credential?
The PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential authorizes individuals to teach all subjects in a self-contained general education classroom from preschool through grade three. Credential holders may also team teach or regroup students across classrooms within this age span.
This credential was created to address the growing need for qualified early childhood educators who have the knowledge and skills to deliver developmentally appropriate instruction. It offers an accelerated pathway for current Multiple Subject Credential holders and Child Development Teacher Permit holders (with a BA degree) to begin teaching in Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and PK–3 settings.
The program values and builds upon candidates’ prior experience in early childhood education and is designed to prepare a diverse, representative teaching workforce.
Can I teach special education with a PK-3 ECE credential?
No. This credential does not authorize service in special education settings.
What is the program pathway offered by PCOE?
PCOE offers an intern credential pathway. Intern programs are job-embedded preparation programs that allow candidates to teach while completing coursework. For more information about intern programs, visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) website.
Is PCOE’s program accredited?
Yes. PCOE is an accredited credential program, just like a university-based program. Our intern pathway is one of several approved routes to earning the same state-issued credential.
Is the program online?
Yes, the program is fully online.
How long is the program?
The program is two years long, in addition to preservice requirements that must be completed before beginning intern teaching.
Does PCOE provide job placement?
No. Interns are responsible for securing their own teaching positions.
What is the cost of the program?
Approximately $10,000 per year.
Is financial assistance available?
Since PCOE is not a college or university, participants are not eligible for federal student loans. However, many students pursue personal loans, and grant funding may be available for eligible individuals.
Are the CBEST and CSET required for this credential?
No. Neither the CBEST nor the CSET is required for the PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Credential.
Is there a Subject Matter Competency Requirement?
Yes. Program Precondition 5 outlines the Subject Matter Competency Requirement (SMR), which can be met in one of two ways:
Option 1: A bachelor’s degree or higher in one of the following fields:
Child Development
Child and Adolescent Development
Human Development
Early Childhood Education
Child and Family Studies
Early Childhood Studies
Human Development and Family Science
Family Science
Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies
OR
Option 2: Completion of 24 semester units (or equivalent quarter units) in non-remedial, degree-applicable coursework in Early Childhood Education and/or Child Development, with grades of C or better.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree to earn the credential?
Yes. All California teaching credentials, including the PK-3 ECE Specialist Instruction Credential, require a bachelor’s degree. While ECE and Child Development coursework helps meet the subject matter requirement, it does not replace the requirement for a BA.
Is a MS credential holder without PK experience required to get a PK-3 credential to teach in PK and TK?
MS credential holders are already authorized by their credential to teach in PK and TK.
