To meet California’s increasing demand for computer science educators, CSUSB’s School of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) developed a certificate in computer science for K-12 educators with an expected start date of spring 2025. The program aims to equip credentialed K-12 educators, as well as students pursuing a teaching credential, with the necessary skills to teach computer science. It will be offered online through Professional and Continuing Education in the College of Extended and Global Education (CEGE).

“The program exemplifies our dedication to academic excellence and community impact,” said Sastry Pantula, dean of the College of Natural Sciences. “This program not only equips our educators with the essential skills to teach the next generation but also reinforces our commitment to fostering a technologically adept and innovative future.”

The certificate is a response to the California State University Office of the Chancellor's initiative, supported by the Mathematics and Science Teacher Initiative, which seeks to address the shortage of K-12 educators who are trained to teach computer science in California. The program was introduced and developed by Ronald Salloum, associate professor in CSE, with support from Khalil Dajani, director of CSE, and Madeleine Jetter, chair of the Department of Mathematics, in collaboration with the College of Extended and Global Education.

Khalil Dajani (right), director of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, and Raul Maldonado, superintendent of the Palmdale School District
Khalil Dajani (right), director of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, and Raul Maldonado, superintendent of the Palmdale School District

“The College of Extended and Global Education is excited to support California’s ongoing efforts to provide K-12 educators with an online program that will equip them with the necessary skills to teach computer science,” said John Binkley, associate vice provost and dean of CEGE. “We are committed to offering flexible and convenient programs like this for the working adults of the region and state.”

The program will cover certain content areas in accordance with the guidelines by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. It offers two pathways to obtain supplementary authorization in computer science: Specific Authorization and Introductory Authorization. Each pathway will require four courses to be completed for a total of 12 units. No prior experience or background in computer science is required. The courses will be taught online, and participating teachers who earn a grade of C or above in each course will receive full tuition reimbursement, subject to funding availability, which is limited.

The initiative underscores CSUSB's commitment to addressing the critical need for qualified computer science educators in California, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills needed to succeed.

For more information about the program, visit the certificate in computer science webpage or contact Salloum at Ronald.Salloum@csusb.edu, Dajani at Khalil.Dajani@csusb.edu, or Martinelli at Veronica.Martinelli@csusb.edu.