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Teacher Education Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why UCSB? Why should I attend this program?
A: Please see the Top 10 reasons to choose our program and feel free to visit and discuss the program with us. Call, email, or stop by the TEP Office any time to set this up.
Q: I'm not sure which teaching credential I want. Who can I talk to?
A: Please feel free to contact the TEP Office and we will connect you with who we feel is best for you to talk with. Choosing a teaching career is an important decision. We want to help you as much as we can.
Q: Can I get my Masters along with the Credential through Teacher Education Program?
A: Yes. An optional Master's Degree is offered concurrently with the Credential Program. During the credential program, M.Ed. candidates are enrolled in a seminar course throughout the year where they learn to design a classroom-based research project, collect and analyze data, and compose the theoretical framework for their work. M.Ed. candidates will give a formal presentation of their M.Ed. project to a panel of university and school-based educators, as well as community members and senate faculty. Teacher Education Program credential candidates can opt to complete the M.Ed. degree the summer following the end of the credential program or they can do so within three years of graduating.
Q: Do you offer a bilingual credential?
A: Absolutely. Please refer to Page 9 of the MST and SST Application Handbooks for more information.
Q: How long does it take to complete the UCSB Teacher Education Program?
A: Our program is a one-year, full-time program that begins in July and ends the following June (for credential only) and July (M.Ed.). However, if you have prerequisite courses, you will need to start in June. The Credential Services Office will help you determine your pre-requisite course needs.
Q: What will a typical week in the Teacher Education Program look like?
A: The summer is different than the school year, but as soon as the first day of K-12 school begins, you will be in your student teaching classrooms in the morning and at UCSB in the afternoons. We follow the K-12 calender rather than the UCSB calender. During fall quarter you spend 3-4 mornings in the classrooms and take classes at UCSB in the afternoons/evenings. For approximately 3 nights a week, classes run until 7:00/7:30 and until 2:00/3:00 the other two days. In winter and spring, the time in classrooms increases and the time at UCSB decreases.
Q: Will I be able to work outside the program?
A: Because our program is a one-year, full-time, intensive program, there is little opportunity for students to work during this year. Sometimes, flexible, short term positions (over holidays or during a small portion of the weekend) are feasible for some students. Our students do not recommend it, however.
Q: Will I need a laptop?
A: Ideally, yes. And ideally, a Macintosh. We utilize technology in our teaching and our smart classrooms are Macintosh based. Students will have laptops or borrow one during class, but it is always optimal to have one yourself. It also allows you to take your work into your K-12 classrooms, your home, etc. The least expensive Macbook will do.
Q: Will I need a car?
A: We strongly recommend a car. As a TEP student you will commute to your school sites and to campus daily. You will have other TEP students at your school site and we always encourage carpooling.
Q: What is the Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement for admission?
A: A 3.00 cumulative GPA for the junior and senior year is required for admission. Strong applicants are encouraged to apply for expections.
Q: What courses and exams are required for admissions to TEP?
A: The state requires a test of basic skills (CBEST) and subject matter knowledge (CSET- in the subject you will be teaching). The university requires the GRE or equivalent for the M.Ed.. Please see the "How to Prepare for Program" page for more information.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Please visit the UCSB Financial Aid webpage to get an estimate of the cost for Graduate students at UCSB, for California and non-California residents. Costs may vary depending on the spending patterns per individual. For the Teacher Education Program, there are additional test fees as listed in the Application Handbooks under "How to Apply".
Q: What financial support is available?
A: There are many financial aid loans, grants, and private fee fellowships available for students in the Teacher Education Program each quarter. Please take a look at the Financial Support page.
Q: After completion of the program, what is the likelihood of getting a job?
A: Our graduates are highly sought after. We have school districts calling often to recruit, and some visit out campus to meet with our candidates. Students wishing to work in declining enrollment areas (such as Santa Barbara) will have a more difficult time securing a position, as the districts often do not make final decisions until August (and sometimes even after school has begun!). When you graduate, you will join an alumni of successful teachers, well prepared for their first year, and who give UCSB's TEP the reputation of excellence it enjoys.