Credential Programs
Students interested in teaching our youngest learners can help support each child in achieving their full potential by obtaining the PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential (PK-3) beginning in May 2025.
How to ApplyAdvising and FormsThe PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential authorizes credential holders to teach pre-kindergarten (PK) through third grades in California public schools. Coursework focuses on developmentally appropriate practices for young children which fosters learning by providing joyful opportunities and maximizing these opportunities for all children. Educators are expected to design, implement and facilitate learning activities that engage students according to their development levels.
The cohort-based credential program is served over a calendar year (3 terms; summer,
fall and spring semesters). Clinical practice experience is offered within a classroom
environment in preschool, transitional kindergarten and PK-3 grades in order to prepare
educators with hands-on experience.
Subject Matter Competency can be met through one of the completion of a relevant degree or coursework as outlined below verified through transcripts.
A. Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education; Child Family Science; Child Development, Child and Adolescent Development, Human Development, Early Childhood Studies, Human Development and Family Science, Family Science or Child Adolescent and Family Studies.
OR
B. Completion of 24 semester units of non-remedial, degree-applicable coursework at a regionally accredited institution of higher education in early childhood education and/or child development.
Students should complete at least one course that provides observation and/or practicum experience as part of their undergraduate work.
For interest in the related 24-unit ECE certificate program at Fresno State, please visit the dedicated program webpage for details and enrollment information.
For inquiries, please contact the Center for Advising and Student Services (CASS) Office in Kremen Education Building, Room 100 (ED 100):
kremen@csufresno.edu • 559.278.0300
Pei-Ying Wu, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Department of Literacy, Early, Bilingual and Special Education
Fansler Chair, Joyce M. Huggins Early Education Center
Marci Haas
Coordinator, 24 Unit ECE Certificate Program
PK-3 Credential Development Project
Brittany Jones
ECE Specialist PK-3 Credential Navigator
Please review our updated list of common inquiries about our program.