TEACHING WITHOUT A DEGREE

CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION COURSES

In California, you do not need a college degree to teach Career Technical Education (CTE) courses to high school students. Due to increased funding by state government, CTE (formally known as vocational/technical education) opportunities are scheduled to greatly expand in California as a result of a new emphasis on building the technical workforce of tomorrow. California can only continue to compete in the technically-oriented global market if there is a sufficient supply of technicians available to drive the economic engine. Many technicians begin their careers as students in CTE courses.

WHAT ARE CTE COURSES?

Career Education teachers usually teach high school students in technical subjects such as: electronics; airframe and powerplant mechanics; computer maintenance and repair; computer assisted manufacturing; control system maintenance and repair; hybrid microelectronics; and over 200 more vocational subjects. A more complete list can be found at: http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/cl698a.pdf

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO TEACH CTE COURSES?

To teach CTE subjects in California a teacher must have a Designated Subject Credential for the subject being taught. To earn a Designated Subject Credential in California you do not need a college degree but you must have a high school diploma and 5 years experience in the subject you teach. A separate credential is required for each subject. The more Designated Subject Credentials you receive the more subjects you can teach. Detailed information can be found at: http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/cl698a.pdf.

ARE CTE COURSES TAUGHT AT ALL HIGH-SCHOOLS?

In California, nearly all vocational training for high school students is conducted by the Regional Occupation Programs (ROP).  ROP Centers are managed by the county office of education and service various school districts. Most often the students travel to the centers for their vocational courses. Full-time vocational teachers for high school students in some instances are provided the same pay and benefits as academic teachers.

HOW DO I EARN A DESIGNATED SUBJECT CREDENTIAL?

Your first step is to talk to a SEARCH counselor who will guide you through the process. To receive a Designated Subject Credential you must visit a ROP counselor who will advise you on which subjects your experience has prepared you to teach. Usually you can call your local county office of education to do this; or see the following website to find a location near you: http://www.carocp.org/carocps.html. The process to receive your Designated Subject Credential will be explained to you by the ROP counselor. It basically consists of proving your education and experience then completing forms and fingerprint checks. The process usually takes less than four weeks and under $300. You will be required to complete about four courses following receipt of your credential in order to retain it.  Once you have your credential, then you apply at ROPs/school districts for any jobs that may come open. Please remember that not all CTE teaching positions are full-time high school teachers.  ROPs also conduct adult education courses with part-time and full-time instructors.