How to Earn a Liberal Studies Degree with a Teaching Credential Online

Online pathways to becoming a teacher are growing in popularity—especially for working adults, transfer students, and those looking for flexible, purpose-driven education. If your goal is to teach in an elementary school classroom, earning a Liberal Studies degree with a teaching credential is one of the most direct and effective ways to begin your journey. Here's how it works—and why it's a smart path forward.

Why Choose a Liberal Studies Degree for Teaching?

The Role of Liberal Studies in Elementary Education

Liberal Studies is a multidisciplinary major that gives future educators the well-rounded knowledge they need to teach multiple subjects. In California and many other states, elementary school teachers must demonstrate competency in subjects such as language arts, mathematics, natural science, social science, and physical education—making a Liberal Studies degree an ideal academic foundation.

Building a Well-Rounded Academic Foundation

Through coursework in social science, art, literature, psychology, reading, and more, students gain a broad understanding of the subjects they’ll one day teach.

Meeting State and Credential Requirements

A well-structured Liberal Studies degree not only prepares students academically but aligns with the requirements for teacher credentialing in California. When paired with a Multiple Subject Credential, this degree positions graduates to meet or exceed state expectations for K–6 teacher education.

What Is a Teaching Credential?

Types of Teaching Credentials

In California, aspiring elementary teachers pursue a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, which authorizes instruction in all subject areas in a self-contained classroom—typical of K–6 education. Other options include Single Subject credentials for high school and middle school or the Education Specialist Instruction Credential (CL-808CA) for inclusive classrooms.

How Credentials Work with Undergraduate Degrees

Many students choose an integrated credential program, which combines their bachelor's degree with the coursework and fieldwork required for a teaching credential. This approach streamlines the path to licensure and helps students begin classroom teaching sooner.

Credential Requirements for Elementary School Teachers

To earn a teaching credential in California, students must complete:

• A state-approved teacher education program

• Coursework in subjects such as language acquisition, literacy, and curriculum development

• Supervised student teaching experience

• Required state exams and background checks

The Benefits of an Integrated Liberal Studies with Teaching Credential Program

Saving Time with Combined Coursework

Instead of completing a degree and then applying to a separate credential program, students can fulfill both sets of requirements at once. This combined format can save time and tuition—especially when paired with transfer credit from California community colleges or other accredited institutions.

Seamless Transition into Student Teaching

Integrated programs are designed to remove the guesswork by embedding student teaching directly into the degree path. This ensures a smooth transition from theory to practice and helps students develop real-world classroom skills.

Gaining Early Classroom Exposure

Integrated credential programs introduce students to classroom settings earlier in their academic journey. These early experiences help students confirm their passion for teaching and prepare them for the expectations of full-time educators.

What to Expect from an Online Liberal Studies with Credential Program

Online Coursework and Learning Platforms

Today’s online teacher education programs are designed for convenience without sacrificing academic rigor. Students engage with learning platforms that provide structured weekly modules, digital assignments, discussion forums, and access to faculty feedback.

Support from Faculty and Credential Advisors

Even in an online format, students receive personalized support. Credential advisors help navigate licensure requirements, while professors bring real classroom experience to help students connect theory to practice. Mentorship is key to preparing students for the challenges and joys of teaching.

Fieldwork and Student Teaching Requirements

While much of the program is completed online, credentialing still requires in-person student teaching under the guidance of a certified mentor teacher. Most universities, including LAPU, work with students to secure placements in local schools during their spring or fall semester.

How LAPU Prepares Future Educators

Faith-Based, Student-Centered Approach

At Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU), students benefit from a values-driven curriculum that integrates Christian faith, ethics, and purpose into every part of the educational journey. The goal isn’t just to prepare teachers academically—but to cultivate compassionate, servant-hearted educators who will make a lasting impact in their classrooms and communities.

Online Format with 8-Week Courses

LAPU’s online format features accelerated 8-week courses, allowing students to focus on one or two subjects at a time while maintaining momentum toward graduation. This model is especially helpful for working adults or those balancing family and other responsibilities.

CTC-Aligned Coursework that Prepares Students for Credential Programs

LAPU offers an Integrated Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). This allows students to complete prerequisite coursework that meets CTC standards and positions you to enter a credential program—an efficient and seamless path into the teaching profession.

Personalized Academic Support and Mentorship

From day one, students receive individualized support from faculty mentors, credential advisors, and student success coaches. LAPU is deeply committed to walking with students every step of the way—from initial enrollment to student teaching, credential application, and beyond.

Steps to Start Your Journey Toward a Teaching Career

Meet Admission and Transfer Requirements

Start by reviewing LAPU’s admission requirements, especially if you’re a transfer student from a California community college. The university’s transfer-friendly curriculum accepts up to 90 units of eligible credit, helping you save time and money.

Enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with Combined Credential

Once admitted, you'll begin your coursework in liberal studies, exploring subjects like language, natural science, social studies, and literacy that form the core of a multiple subject teaching credential program.

Complete Credential Coursework and Fieldwork

As part of the integrated program, you’ll begin credential coursework while working toward your degree. This includes classes in curriculum design, language acquisition, classroom management, and teaching diverse learners, alongside field placements in K–8 classrooms.

Prepare for Your Preliminary Teaching Credential

After completing degree and credential requirements—including passing exams like the CSET and completing student teaching—you can earn your Preliminary Multiple Subject Credential through the state of California.

Is a Liberal Studies with Credential Program Right for You?

Ideal for Aspiring K–6 Teachers

If your passion is teaching children in elementary school classrooms, this integrated program is a direct route to earning your degree and credential at the same time—no extra steps required.

Designed for Working Adults and Transfer Students

With online flexibility, 8-week terms, and generous transfer credit policies, LAPU’s program supports students with jobs, families, and busy schedules. It’s built for adult learners who are ready to pursue a profession in education with purpose and clarity.

Flexible, Faith-Based, and Focused on Your Goals

The program combines academic excellence with Christian values and personalized attention. Whether you're starting fresh or returning to college after time away, LAPU equips you with the knowledge, experience, and faith foundation to thrive in your future classroom.

Conclusion: Your Path to Becoming a Teacher Starts Here

A Liberal Studies degree with a teaching credential is more than just a pathway to licensure—it’s a journey of personal and professional transformation. With the right support, curriculum, field experience, and clinical practice, you can become the kind of teacher who changes lives, inspires learning, and brings purpose to the classroom.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Explore LAPU’s fully online Liberal Studies with Credential program and learn how you can start your journey toward becoming a credentialed teacher in California. Whether you're changing careers or pursuing a lifelong dream, this program is designed with your future—and your students—in mind.

Apply today or speak with an LAPU advisor to find out how you can take the next step toward your teaching career.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What grade levels can I teach with this degree and credential?

With a Multiple Subject Credential, you’re qualified to teach all subjects in a self-contained classroom, typically in kindergarten through 6th grade.

Can I complete student teaching online?

While coursework is online, student teaching must be completed in person at a local school site. LAPU helps coordinate placements in your area.

Does this program meet California credential requirements?

Yes. LAPU’s credential program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and aligns with state licensure standards.

How long does it take to complete both the degree and credential?

With full-time enrollment and transfer credits, many students complete the degree + credential pathway in about 4 years—faster for students with prior coursework.

What support does LAPU offer during the credential process?

Students receive support from credential advisors, faculty mentors, and academic success coaches throughout their coursework, student teaching, and credential process.