Administrative Services Credential

The Administrative Services Credential program at California State University is designed to prepare aspiring educational leaders for roles in school administration and district management. This comprehensive program provides candidates with the essential knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to become effective school administrators, principals, and other educational leaders. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, organizational management, educational law, fiscal management, personnel administration, and community engagement. Through a combination of coursework, fieldwork, and internships, students gain hands-on experience that bridges theoretical concepts with real-world application.

The program is tailored to meet the requirements set forth by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, ensuring that graduates are well-qualified to serve in administrative positions within California's public schools. Candidates will explore topics such as curriculum development, student services, school safety, and ethical decision-making. Emphasis is placed on fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments, strategies for improving student achievement, and effective communication with stakeholders including parents, staff, and community members.

Designed for individuals who already hold a preliminary teaching credential, the Administrative Services Credential enables educators to advance their careers into district-level leadership, site administration, or other supervisory roles. The program combines face-to-face classes, online modules, and practical internship components to accommodate working professionals and provide flexible learning experiences. Graduates of the program are equipped to lead schools with vision, integrity, and a strong focus on student success.

This credential is essential for those seeking to fulfill the California administrative credential requirements and to demonstrate their commitment to educational excellence. Upon completing the program, candidates will be prepared to apply for leadership positions within California’s public school systems, positively impacting student learning and school community dynamics. The program's strong emphasis on ethical leadership, continuous improvement, and community involvement ensures that graduates are ready to meet the challenges of modern educational administration.

Required Courses (33 units) 
  
•  EDPL 610 - Foundations of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment (3) 
•  EDPL 620 - Instructional Leadership of the Collaborative Inclusive School (3) 
•  EDPL 621 - Law and School Management (3) 
•  EDPL 622 - School Finance and Principles of Applied Leadership (3) 
•  EDPL 623 - Understanding and Influencing Organizations in Diverse Communities (3) 
•  EDPL 624 - Human Resource Management in Education Settings (3) 
•  EDPL 625 - Building Collaborative, Inclusive Learning Communities (3) 
•  EDPL 631 - Professional Development/Fieldwork I (1-4)* 
•  EDPL 632 - Professional Development/Fieldwork II (1-2)* 
•  EDUC 605 - Education in a Diverse Society (3) 
•  EDUC 615 - Principles of Educational Research (3) 

1. Application — Apply to both the University Admissions office and the School of Education.
2. One set of Official Transcripts — One official set of transcripts from each of the colleges or universities attended must be mailed directly to the CI Admissions office. Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required to be accepted into the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential Program.
3. CBEST Examination — Copy of card indicating passage of the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST) or verification that you have taken the test prior to admission to the program. Passage of CBEST is required for certification.
4. California Teaching Credential — Copy of a valid California teaching credential requiring a baccalaureate degree and a program of professional preparation, including student teaching; or a valid California Designated Subjects teaching credential provided the applicant also possesses a baccalaureate degree; or a valid California services credential in Pupil Personnel Services, Health Services, Library Media Teacher Services, or Clinical or Rehabilitative Services requiring a baccalaureate degree and a profession preparation program including field practice or the equivalent submitted to the School of Education. 
5. Experience — Documentation of at least three years of full-time successful teaching experience (substitute or part-time service does not apply).
6. Two Letters of Recommendation — Two letters of recommendation from professionals who are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional work at least one of whom is the candidate’s current school administrator.
7. Interview — Interview with School of Education Admissions Committee.
8. Writing Sample — A written statement of purpose (500- 600 word essay) describing why the candidate desires to be a school administrator serving the children and families of the diverse communities of California. This essay will include reflection on personal professional goals and ways in which the knowledge and skills will be developed to achieve these goals.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Administrative Services Credential program at California State University offers a comprehensive pathway for individuals aspiring to become school administrators in California. Funding for this program is primarily derived from a combination of state and federal sources, including grants, scholarships, and student loans. The California Department of Education provides financial support through various funding opportunities aimed at encouraging diverse candidates to pursue administrative credentials. Additionally, CSU students often have access to institutional aid programs, including merit-based scholarships and fee waivers, designed to support educational attainment.

Many students finance their studies through federal student loan programs, such as the Federal Direct Loan Program, which offers both subsidized and unsubsidized loans to eligible candidates. State-specific financial aid options, such as Cal Grants, may also be available, depending on the applicant's circumstances. The university's financial aid office provides guidance and assistance in applying for these funds, helping students to develop personalized financial plans. Moreover, some districts and educational institutions offer partial tuition reimbursement or reimbursement programs for employees pursuing administrative credentials through CSU, recognizing the professional development benefits.

Work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities on campus are additional financial resources for students, allowing them to offset costs while gaining relevant experience. Furthermore, professional organizations associated with educational administration sometimes provide scholarships and funding opportunities to support candidates in their credentialing process. The program's overall funding infrastructure is structured to make administrative credential completion accessible by reducing financial barriers, thereby promoting a diverse and qualified pool of future administrators. The combination of institutional aid, state and federal support, and employer-based assistance ensures that students can pursue their Administrative Services Credential with manageable financial commitments, fostering career advancement in California's education system.

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The Administrative Services Credential program offered by California State University is designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles within public education systems. This program equips future administrators with the essential skills and knowledge required to effectively manage schools and districts, ensuring they meet all state regulatory requirements for certification. The credential is primarily aimed at serving as a prerequisite for employment as a school district or county office administrator in California.

The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including educational leadership, organizational management, fiscal management, personnel administration, curriculum development, and legal and ethical issues in education. Coursework emphasizes the development of practical skills such as strategic planning, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making, which are crucial for effective administration in complex educational environments.

Students enrolled in the program often engage in fieldwork or internships that provide real-world experience in school administration. This practical component allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in actual school settings, fostering a deeper understanding of daily administrative operations and challenges. The program is often structured to accommodate working professionals, offering evening or online courses to facilitate their participation.

To qualify for the Administrative Services Credential, candidates typically need a valid California preliminary teaching credential and relevant experience in educational settings. The program culminates in a comprehensive assessment or capstone project, demonstrating the student's readiness to assume administrative roles. Upon successful completion, graduates earn the credential necessary to become school administrators, superintendents, or other leadership positions within public education.

The program at California State University aligns with state educational standards and priorities, emphasizing leadership for school improvement, equity, and inclusive practices. It aims to prepare educational leaders who are committed to fostering safe, innovative, and effective learning environments. In addition to coursework, students often have access to professional development opportunities, networking events, and resources to support their career advancement.

Overall, the Administrative Services Credential program serves as a critical pathway for educators aspiring to take on administrative roles, contributing to the improvement of educational institutions and student achievement across California.