Credential Programs

 

Subject Matter Requirements

The California Education Code requires teaching credential candidates to demonstrate proficiency in the subject matter area of their intended credential through specific majors, examinations, or relevant coursework.

Getting Started

Use the chart below to determine your next steps toward meeting Subject Matter. Then, reference the instructions at the bottom of the page.

 
Program Accepted Degree Majors If You Have the Degree Major If You Do Not Have the Degree Major
Multiple Subject
  • Bachelor's or higher in Education
  • Liberal Studies
  • Liberal Arts or
  • Elementary Education
 If you have the degree, green check mark.
No CSET required		 If you do not have the degree, red x
CSET or Coursework Evaluation required
Dual
  • Bachelor's or higher in Liberal Studies
  • Liberal Arts or
  • Elementary Education
 If you have the degree, green check mark.
No CSET required		 If you do not have the degree, red x
CSET or Coursework Evaluation required
Education Specialist If you have the degree, green check mark.
No CSET required		 If you do not have the degree, red x
CSET or Coursework Evaluation required
Single Subject If you have the degree, green check mark.
No CSET required		 If you do not have the degree, red x
CSET or Coursework Evaluation required
PK-3
  • Bachelor’s or higher in Education or
  • Child Development
  • Child and Family Science (must be completed at Fresno State to be applicable)
 If you have the degree, green check mark.
No Coursework Evaluation required		 If you do not have the degree, red x
Coursework Evaluation required

Meeting SMR by Degree Major

Step 1: Please review the CCTC's guidelines on degree majors that meet SMR.

Step 2: If you meet SMR by degree major, please attach a transcript to your Program Application.
SMR Majors

CSET Examinations

If you do not meet SMR by degree major, you have the option of taking the CSET.

Step 1: Register for the exam below. CSETs must be passed by the application deadline.

Step 2: Attach an unofficial score report to your Program Application.
CSET Registration

Coursework Evaluations

If you do not meet SMR by degree major, you have the option of requesting a Coursework Evaluation from Fresno State.

Step 1 - Self-Assessment: Using the worksheets below, complete a self-assessment to make sure you have taken coursework for every domain. If you are missing any domains, you should take the CSET or pick up additional coursework. Fresno State students and alumni can also use this tool for the self-assessment: SMR Course Guide.

Step 2 - Request: Attach a written request in PDF format to the Subject Matter slot of your Program Application. When your Evaluation is complete, you will receive an email from the faculty with the results. Please note that requesting an Evaluation does not guarantee clearance. It can also take one to two months to receive Evaluation results.

Requests for Multiple Subject, Dual, Education Specialist, and Single Subject must be submitted by April 1, 2027 in order for our faculty to conduct the SMR coursework evaluation. Requests submitted after this date may not be reviewed.

SMR Worksheets