The Teacher Education Program (TEP) at UC Santa Barbara is now accepting applications for the 2027-28 academic year. Individuals who apply by January 15 are eligible to earn both a teaching credential and a master’s degree in just one year, preparing them to teach in their own classrooms by Fall 2028, according to information released by the school.
Over the past three years, 69 percent of TEP candidates reported receiving a job offer by June, indicating strong employment prospects upon completion. School officials emphasize the program's foundational belief that public education holds the capacity to foster a more equitable future for all learners. They expressed commitment to "prepare creative teacher leaders who strive to improve the educational system."
The rigorous, 12-month master’s degree and teaching credential program offers a variety of specializations. Credentials are available in Elementary Education, Secondary Education (with specific pathways in English, history, math, science, or world languages Spanish), and Special Education (focusing on mild to moderate or extensive support needs).
TEP's structure is designed to cultivate constructive relationships and provides graduate students with a full year of supported student teaching. The curriculum integrates coursework directly with fieldwork, allowing participants to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, real-world educational settings.
The program actively encourages applications from specific types of candidates. These include individuals enthusiastic about educating, curious about people and learning, and passionate about serving young populations. TEP seeks applicants who are collaborative, open to new perspectives, and understand that knowledge manifests in diverse forms and communities. Ideal candidates also expect excellence from all students and actively support them in achieving it. Furthermore, the program looks for those willing to reflect critically on personal experiences, challenge assumptions, believe in the power of public education to shape the future, and aspire to enact change by becoming teacher leaders.
Prospective students interested in the UCSB Teacher Education Program can gather more information by attending upcoming program and application information meetings. The TEP is part of the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, which additionally offers masters, doctorates, and teaching credentials through its Department of Counseling, Clinical & School Psychology and Department of Education. The school also provides three undergraduate minors in Education, Applied Psychology, and Science & Mathematics Education. A new Bachelor of Arts in Education & Society degree is set to be offered beginning in fall 2027.
