CSUSB Master’s in Education: Programs & Credentials

What you’ll learn in this article…

California needs more than 100,000 new teachers by 2030.
Elementary teachers in San Bernardino metro earn median $65,488.
CSUSB's MAT program offers both traditional and intern teaching pathways.

California schools anticipate more than 100,000 teacher openings by 2030, with the Inland Empire absorbing over 10 percent of those positions. California State University-San Bernardino anchors regional preparation through two primary graduate paths: the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and the MA in Higher Education and Adult Education.

For working educators, the decision to pursue an advanced degree often hinges on balancing affordability with long-term salary progression. In the Riverside-San Bernardino metro area, where median teacher pay reaches $65,488, the additional earnings tied to a master's degree offer a clear financial incentive.

Master's in Education Programs at California State University-San Bernardino

Higher Education & Adult Education

Master of Arts in Educational Administration (Community College/Higher Education) — Hybrid

2 concentration options
34 total credit hours
3.0 GPA minimum
Work experience required
Thesis or capstone option

Designed for working professionals
Leadership roles in higher education
Courses in history, policy, and assessment
Includes a field project
Focus on community college leadership

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Teaching (MAT)

Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics — On-Campus

3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
Work experience required
Prerequisite courses required
Requires valid teaching credential
Written statement of interest required

Graduate Coordinator approval required
Advising from MAT faculty
Conditional admission possible
Scholarly writing paper required
Designed for secondary math teachers

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The Teaching Job Market in San Bernardino and Riverside

Demand for qualified K-12 educators across San Bernardino and Riverside counties is both steady and substantial, creating an opportune moment for those with advanced credentials to step into well-compensated roles. Annual statewide projections show around 24,000 openings for K-12 teachers, and the Inland Empire accounts for roughly 10.7 percent of that need, translating into thousands of positions each year across local districts.¹

Where the Need Is Greatest

Shortages are most acute in special education, mathematics, science, and bilingual education. Median salaries reflect that urgency: middle school teachers here earn a median of $103,931, high school teachers $102,460, and special education teachers at the secondary level $103,796. Even kindergarten teachers, at a median of $78,829, see significant step increases with a master’s degree.² Over 430,000 people are employed in public education in Riverside County alone⁴, signaling a broad employment base that continually needs new talent.

Major Districts Fueling Hiring

San Bernardino City Unified, Riverside Unified, and Corona-Norco Unified are among the largest employers. Recent local bond measures and state-funded initiatives have expanded school facilities and instructional programs, directly boosting recruitment. For example, the University of California-Riverside-San Bernardino City Unified Teacher Residency Program, with a $32,000 award per resident, supported 35 candidates in 2025 and is scaling to 70 by 2025-2026.³ Annual recruitment fairs, such as the 13th Riverside County Education Recruitment Fair in 2026, connect hundreds of candidates with district HR teams.⁴

CSUSB: A Local Pipeline

California State University-San Bernardino maintains deep partnerships with these districts. Student teaching placements, residency programs, and early hiring agreements mean many CSUSB graduates move directly into classrooms they’ve already trained in. The university’s education faculty align coursework with district priorities, giving M.Ed. candidates a competitive edge in interviews and on the salary schedule.

A Master’s Degree Pays Off

For California teachers, a master’s degree typically adds a permanent bump on the salary schedule, often $3,000 to $7,000 annually, compounding over a career. With the Inland Empire projected to add over 100,000 education-related jobs by 2030,² earning a locally respected M.Ed. not only accelerates initial hiring but also positions you for leadership roles down the line.

Master’s in Education Programs at CSUSB: Specializations and Learning Formats

As school districts intensify their focus on teacher retention and advanced credentials, the structure of master’s in education programs is evolving rapidly to meet new state standards. At California State University-San Bernardino, graduate students can choose from several pathways designed to deepen their expertise and expand career options. The College of Education offers two distinct master’s-level programs: a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) for those seeking initial or advanced teaching credentials, and a Master of Arts in Higher Education and Adult Education for professionals targeting roles in colleges, universities, and adult learning settings.

Program Options at CSUSB

The MAT program typically prepares candidates for K-12 classroom teaching. Specializations may include elementary education, secondary education in specific subject areas, special education, or bilingual education, though exact offerings can change by catalog year. Core coursework often covers curriculum design, assessment, classroom management, and educational psychology, along with a culminating project or thesis. Students should note that the MAT is frequently aligned with California masters in education credential requirements, so the program integrates fieldwork and student teaching components mandated by the state.

The MA in Higher Education and Adult Education is geared toward those aiming for administrative, advising, or leadership roles in postsecondary institutions, corporate training, or community-based adult education programs. The curriculum generally explores college student development, organizational theory, program evaluation, and adult learning principles. Students might select electives or concentrations focused on areas like community college leadership or instructional design.

Delivery Formats: Online, Hybrid, and On-Campus

CSUSB recognizes that many graduate students balance work and family obligations. To accommodate this, courses are offered in a mix of formats. Some specializations may be available fully online, while others rely on a hybrid model blending in-person meetings with asynchronous online modules. A few programs might maintain traditional on-campus schedules. Because delivery methods can shift from term to term, prospective students should consult the University Catalog or the department’s current schedule of classes for the most accurate information.

Typical Completion Timelines

Completion times vary based on the program and the student’s pace. Full-time students often finish in two to three years, depending on the credit load and whether they are also completing a credential. Part-time pathways can extend completion to four or more years. For customized planning, it’s best to reach out to the graduate coordinator listed on the College of Education website. They can outline a sample timeline that fits your schedule and any transfer credit considerations.

Aligning Your Choice with Career Goals

Before committing to a specialization, take time to review current job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or California’s Employment Development Department. Teaching positions in high-need areas like special education, math, and science often command higher demand, while roles in higher education administration may offer different growth trajectories. Combining CSUSB’s program information with labor market data helps ensure your investment aligns with employment opportunities in the San Bernardino and Riverside region.

For the most up-to-date details on curriculum, credit requirements, and concentrations, visit the official CSUSB College of Education website (coe.csusb.edu) and review the latest University Catalog. Program coordinators can answer specific questions about course sequencing and prerequisite knowledge through email or phone as listed on the department site.

Online Vs. On-Campus M.ed. At CSUSB: Which Is Right for You?

CSUSB offers both online and on-campus Master's in Education options, each with distinct advantages. Your choice depends on your learning style, work schedule, and career goals.

Pros

Maximum flexibility: complete coursework on your schedule, ideal for working teachers, parents, or those with busy lives.
No commute required, with full access to CSUSB's online resources, library databases, and virtual academic supports.
In-state tuition remains the same regardless of format, and out-of-state online students may qualify for reduced tuition rates.

Cons

Fewer face-to-face networking opportunities with peers and faculty, which can be valuable in the collaborative field of education.
Self-discipline and strong time management skills are essential for success in asynchronous or limited-synchronous online formats.
On-campus students have direct, in-person access to career services, campus libraries, and advising that online students may need to seek out virtually.

CSUSB’s College of Education crafts its graduate programs with working educators in mind. Choose from evening, hybrid, or fully online courses to fit your busy schedule. You can keep teaching, earn your degree, and progress in your career on your terms, without having to step away from the classroom or your life. This flexibility is key for advancing your credentials while managing professional and personal commitments.

Tuition and Financial Aid for CSUSB Graduate Education Programs

Graduate education is a substantial investment, but CSUSB's tuition structure is designed with affordability in mind.

Tuition Overview: What You'll Pay Per Credit and Total

For the 2026 academic year, California residents enrolled in CSUSB's graduate education programs pay $570 per credit¹. A typical master's degree requires 30 to 36 credits, placing the total tuition between $9,600 and $10,260² for residents. Non-resident students see a lower per-credit rate of $471 for 2026-2027⁴, but this is offset by mandatory campus fees. Full-time resident students can expect around $4,032 in semester tuition plus $1,095 in campus fees³, while part-time resident tuition is approximately $2,340 per semester plus fees³. Credential program students follow a similar structure, with full-time tuition at $3,969 and part-time at $2,302 per semester for the 2026-2027 year⁵. Notably, CSUSB does not charge an additional online differential fee⁵, so distance learners pay the same tuition as on-campus students.

Financial Aid Options for Education Graduate Students

Several financial aid programs can help reduce the cost:

Federal TEACH Grant: CSUSB participates in this grant, which provides up to $4,000 per year for students who commit to teaching in a high-need field at a low-income school.⁵
Cal Grant for Teaching: California residents may qualify for this state-funded program, which offers financial support to those pursuing a teaching credential or graduate degree in education.⁵
Department Scholarships: The College of Education at CSUSB awards merit- and need-based scholarships specifically for graduate education students. These awards can reduce out-of-pocket costs.⁵
Federal Student Loans: Graduate students can access unsubsidized Direct Loans and Grad PLUS loans. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to securing these funds.⁵

Loan Forgiveness and Employer Reimbursement

Teachers may reduce their debt through forgiveness programs, including:

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Full-time teachers at public or non-profit schools may have their remaining loan balance forgiven after 120 qualifying payments.⁵
Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Educators with five consecutive years of service in a low-income school may receive up to $17,500 in forgiveness on certain federal loans.⁵
District Tuition Reimbursement: Many local districts in San Bernardino and Riverside offer professional development funds or tuition reimbursement to teachers earning advanced degrees. Check with your employer's human resources office for eligibility and application processes.

By combining modest tuition rates, robust aid programs, and potential employer support, CSUSB's graduate education programs deliver strong value for aspiring and advancing teachers.

California will need more than 100,000 new teachers by 2030 because of retirements and smaller class sizes, according to the California Department of Education. The Inland Empire already accounts for 10.7% of state hires, and CSUSB's Master of Arts in Teaching program is a direct pipeline into these local classrooms.

CSUSB M.ed. Admissions Requirements and Deadlines

To apply for a Master of Education at California State University-San Bernardino, you’ll need to meet the following requirements. Specifics vary by program, so always confirm details with your intended specialization.

Bachelor’s Degree
From a regionally accredited institution.
Minimum GPA
GPA requirements range from 2.5 to 3.0 depending on program. The University Baseline M.Ed. requires a 2.75; the Elementary & Secondary Concentration requires 2.5; the MA in Educational Administration requires 3.0. Conditional admission may be available for some programs with College of Education approval, allowing up to 15 semester units in conditional status.
Standardized Tests
No GRE is required for any CSUSB M.Ed. program. If you are pursuing the MAT credential pathway, you may need to submit CBEST and CSET scores, confirm current policy with the program.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters from academic or professional references.
Statement of Purpose
A personal essay explaining your career goals and why the program at CSUSB is a good fit.
Résumé or CV
A current summary of your professional and educational background.
Application Deadlines
Fall priority deadline is March 1; spring priority is October 1. Admissions continue on a rolling basis after these dates if space permits. Some specializations have earlier deadlines, so verify your program’s specific date.
Program-Specific Requirements
Elementary & Secondary Concentration: valid California teaching credential or enrollment in a credential program. MA in Educational Administration: relevant work experience (4 years for TK-12 leadership, 3 years for community college/higher ed).

Fieldwork and Student Teaching in CSUSB’s MAT Program

Student teaching at CSUSB can follow a traditional pathway or an intern pathway, and the structure of your fieldwork depends on which you choose.

How the Traditional Student Teaching Track Works

Traditional MAT candidates complete a carefully sequenced set of field experiences. Early fieldwork typically begins with 80 hours of observation and guided practice in local classrooms², split between primary (K, 3) and upper elementary (4, 6) settings¹. This builds toward a full-semester student teaching assignment lasting 16 weeks². During student teaching, candidates log between 480 and 560 hours² of direct classroom instruction under the mentorship of a cooperating teacher.

The Intern Pathway: Fieldwork While You Teach

For candidates who secure a full-time teaching position while in the program, the intern pathway integrates fieldwork directly into their paid role. Interns complete 120 hours of early fieldwork¹ before taking on their own classroom, along with nine units of prerequisite coursework¹. The intern experience spans nine quarters¹, blending sustained teaching practice with ongoing coursework and support.

Placement Partnerships Across the Inland Empire

CSUSB coordinates all student teaching placements within San Bernardino and Riverside counties¹. The university’s partnerships with dozens of districts, from urban San Bernardino City Unified to suburban and rural systems, ensure that candidates gain experience with the region’s diverse student populations. Single Subject candidates also complete a focused 10-week placement after 75 hours of observation³, while Multiple Subject candidates experience placements in both primary and upper elementary grades¹.

Prerequisites and Clearances

Before beginning any student teaching assignment, you must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)¹ and the appropriate California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET)¹. A tuberculosis clearance and a criminal background check are also required¹. Additionally, California requires proof of completion of a U.S. Constitution course for the preliminary credential.

Support Throughout the Experience

CSUSB surrounds student teachers with a layered support system. A university supervisor conducts six formal observations per semester², offering feedback and evaluations. A cooperating resident teacher guides day-to-day practice and models effective instruction¹. Program faculty and a dedicated supervision office provide ongoing seminars and one-on-one advising¹, ensuring candidates develop both their instructional skills and their professional confidence.

Fieldwork in Other Graduate Education Programs

Not every master’s program at CSUSB requires student teaching. For example, the MA in Higher Education may substitute an internship or capstone, while the MA in Educational Administration includes 120 clinical hours of administrative fieldwork⁴. TESOL candidates enroll in a dedicated fieldwork course (EESL 6900)⁵ that connects theory to classroom practice in language teaching settings. These alternatives offer targeted, applied experiences tailored to each career path.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Do you find purpose in working with diverse student populations and collaborating with colleagues from varied backgrounds?

CSUSB's programs emphasize equity and inclusion, preparing you to serve the Inland Empire's multicultural classrooms. Your success hinges on genuine enthusiasm for collaborating across diverse cultural backgrounds.

Are you ready to balance a rigorous graduate schedule with full-time teaching or other professional responsibilities?

Many CSUSB students work while studying; the online and evening options help, but the workload is substantial. Ensure you have the support and discipline to manage both.

Do you envision building a lasting career in the Inland Empire's schools and communities?

A CSUSB master's positions you for leadership roles in a region with persistent teacher shortages. The degree's value grows when paired with a commitment to the local educational landscape.

Can you clearly identify how a master's degree will advance your career, whether through higher pay, a specialized role, or a move into administration?

Graduate coursework translates to salary increases on many district scales, and it qualifies you for positions like instructional coach or principal. Without a plan, the investment may not pay off as directly.

Accreditation and California Teaching Credentials

Earning a master’s in education represents a serious investment of time and money, but the return on that investment depends heavily on whether your program is properly accredited and leads to a valid teaching credential. At California State University-San Bernardino, both bases are covered through rigorous institutional and program-level approvals.

Institutional Accreditation: A Foundation of Quality

CSUSB holds regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This status, reaffirmed through 2032, signals that the university meets high standards for academic quality, fiscal stability, and student support. It also ensures that your degree will be recognized by other accredited institutions and employers nationwide, making it a transferable credential if you ever pursue further graduate work or relocate.

Programmatic Approval for Teacher Preparation

For aspiring teachers, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program carries approval from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). This programmatic endorsement is what transforms an academic degree into a pathway to teaching licensure. Without CTC approval, even an outstanding master’s program would leave graduates ineligible for a California teaching credential. The MAT at CSUSB integrates all required pedagogy coursework, student teaching, and performance assessments, so you can complete one cohesive program rather than piecing together separate requirements.

From MAT to Preliminary Credential: The Pathway

Earning a preliminary teaching credential through CSUSB requires more than just coursework. You must: - Complete the full MAT curriculum, including supervised student teaching. - Pass state-mandated exams like the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) and the appropriate California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). - Successfully complete the Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA) embedded in your program.

Once you hold a preliminary credential, you have five years to clear it through an induction program typically offered by your employing school district. This process includes mentorship, professional development, and a final portfolio. CSUSB’s teacher preparation program is designed to align with these next steps, setting you up for a smooth transition from student to fully credentialed educator.

Credential Reciprocity for Out-of-State Moves

California participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which facilitates teacher license reciprocity for credentialed teachers relocating to other member states. While a California preliminary credential doesn’t guarantee automatic licensure elsewhere, it often allows you to qualify for a comparable license more quickly, with fewer additional requirements. If you anticipate moving, check the specific rules of your destination state, but the NASDTEC framework generally gives CSUSB graduates a significant head start.

Non-Credential Programs: The MA in Higher Education

Not every graduate education program at CSUSB leads to a teaching credential, and that’s by design. The Master of Arts in Higher Education, for example, is aimed at college advising, student affairs, and administrative careers rather than K-12 classroom teaching. It does not require CTC approval, and its curriculum focuses on organizational leadership, student development theory, and policy, skills that align with roles in community colleges, four-year universities, and educational nonprofits.

What Teachers Earn in the San Bernardino Metro Area

In the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metro area, elementary school teachers earn a median salary of $65,488 according to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data. With a master's degree, educators often move to higher steps on the salary schedule, increasing their long-term earning potential.

Median annual salary of $65,488 for elementary school teachers in the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario metro area in 2024, per BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About CSUSB’s Graduate Education Programs

Prospective students often have questions about program formats, costs, and outcomes. Here we address some of the most common inquiries to help you make an informed decision about earning your master's degree at California State University-San Bernardino.

Is CSUSB’s Master’s in Education available online?

CSUSB’s graduate education programs offer a mix of delivery formats. The Master of Arts in Education with concentrations in Elementary or Secondary Education is delivered in a hybrid format combining online and on-campus sessions.¹ In contrast, the Master of Arts in TESOL is available fully online³, allowing students to complete coursework remotely. Check the specific program page for the most current scheduling details.

How long does it take to complete a Master’s in Education at CSUSB?

Both the MA in Education (Elementary/Secondary) and the MA in TESOL require 30 credit hours.²³ Full-time students can complete either program in as few as two semesters, or one academic year. Part-time enrollment extends the timeline based on the number of courses taken each term. Transfer credits may also shorten completion time.

What’s the difference between an MAT and an M.Ed. at CSUSB?

CSUSB offers Master of Arts (MA) degrees in Education rather than a Master of Education (M.Ed.). The MA in Education with concentrations in Elementary or Secondary Education focuses on advanced pedagogy and curriculum for practicing teachers. A Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is a separate degree pathway often designed for those seeking initial teaching licensure, but the primary graduate education offerings at CSUSB are the MA in Education and MA in TESOL. For details on credential-specific tracks, contact the College of Education.

How much does a Master’s in Education cost at CSUSB?

The total program cost for the MA in Education (Elementary/Secondary) is $9,600.² This figure covers required coursework and is subject to change. Additional fees, books, and materials are not included. For the most current tuition rates, visit the CSUSB Student Financial Services website.

Does the CSUSB MAT lead to a teaching credential?

The MA in Education (Elementary/Secondary) program at CSUSB is designed for educators who already hold a teaching credential or are working toward one through separate credential programs. While the MA in Education does not automatically confer a credential, CSUSB's College of Education offers concurrent credential programs. Prospective students seeking initial licensure may explore these pathways alongside their graduate coursework.

What are the admission requirements for CSUSB’s Master’s in Education programs?

Admission to CSUSB graduate education programs requires a minimum bachelor's GPA of 3.0⁴, two letters of recommendation¹, and submission through the Cal State Apply system¹. There is no GRE or other standardized exam required.⁴ The application fee is $70.⁴ Specific degree tracks may have additional prerequisites, so review the program's admission page carefully.