the Subject Matter Preparation (pre-credential) plan

Your Passion. Their Future. Your Teaching Journey Starts Here.

Dream of Becoming an Elementary School Teacher?

Turn your passion for helping children into a future in education!

The Hutchins Subject Matter Preparation (Pre-Credential) Plan combines a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with specialized coursework and classroom experiences to prepare you for the next step toward becoming an elementary school teacher.

This California Commission on Teacher Credentialing-approved subject matter preparation program prepares students to pursue a Multiple Subject or Education Specialist Teaching Credential after graduation.

Learn Today. Inspire Tomorrow. Teach the Future.

Why Choose Hutchins?

Discover how the Hutchins approach to education can help prepare you for your future classroom.

Small Classes. Big Connections.

Learn in small, discussion-based seminars where professors know you and your voice matters. Build meaningful relationships with classmates while strengthening communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

Learn What You'll Teach.

Develop knowledge in the subjects elementary school teachers teach, including reading, writing, mathematics, science, history, and the arts.

Real Classroom Experience.

Connect your coursework with classroom observations and hands-on experiences in elementary school settings.

CSET Multiple Subjects Exam Waiver Opportunity.

Students who successfully complete approved subject matter preparation requirements may qualify for a CSET Multiple Subjects exam waiver.

Contact your Hutchins advisor to confirm eligibility and current requirements.

Explore Your Interests.

Personalize your education through study abroad, an academic minor, bilingual education preparation, special education preparation, or an individualized Area of Concentration.

Your Path to Becoming a Teacher

Four Steps. One Goal. Your Future Classroom.

Earn Your Bachelor's Degree: Complete the Liberal Studies Subject Matter Preparation Plan.
Meet Credential Requirements: Satisfy applicable subject matter and credential admission requirements.
Enter a Credential Program: Pursue a Multiple Subject or Education Specialist Teaching Credential.
Begin Your Teaching Career: Complete credential requirements and obtain California teaching authorization.

The Pre-Credential Plan prepares students for credential study but does not itself award a teaching credential.

What Will You Study?

Build the Knowledge You'll Bring to Your Classroom.

Required Teacher Preparation Courses

LIBS 312 - Schools and Society: 3 units
LIBS 327 - Literacy, Language, and Pedagogy OR ENG 379 - English Language: 3-4 units
LIBS 330 - The Child in Question: 3 units
MATH 300A - Elementary Number Systems: 3 units
MATH 300B - Probability and Statistics: 3 units
KIN 400 - Elementary Physical Education: 3 units

Students also complete approved coursework in science, the arts, mathematics, and other subjects taught in elementary schools.

Academic Planning Tip: Work with your Hutchins advisor to confirm required courses, prerequisites, and your individual graduation plan.

Make Your Education Your Own

Choose a 12-Unit Area of Concentration

Explore an academic subject that interests you while preparing for your teaching career.

Possible Areas of Concentration include:

Human Development
Reading and Literature
Social Sciences
Mathematics
Science
Visual and Performing Arts

An approved minor in a related academic discipline may fulfill the Area of Concentration requirement.

Work with your Hutchins advisor to select an approved concentration.

Your Future Classroom Starts Here!

Whether you dream of teaching elementary school, exploring bilingual education, or supporting students with special learning needs, Hutchins can help you build the foundation for your future.