Minor
About English Teacher Preparation (Minor Only) at CSUSB
The English Teacher Preparation minor at Cal State San Bernardino provides students with a strong foundation in the study of literature, language, and writing, specifically tailored for those interested in teaching English at the secondary level.
This minor supports students who plan to pursue a Single Subject Teaching Credential in English and strengthens the knowledge and skills essential for effective classroom instruction.
Through coursework in writing, grammar, literature, language studies, and adolescent literacy, students gain insight into how English is taught, how students learn, and how teachers can support diverse learners.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, cultural awareness, and instructional preparation—making it an excellent complement to majors such as English, Liberal Studies, Education, Communication Studies, and related fields.
This minor equips future teachers with the content background required for credential programs while introducing them to the pedagogical approaches and educational practices that help students thrive in middle and high school English classrooms.
Careers in English Teacher Preparation (Minor Only)
The English Teacher Preparation minor directly supports students pursuing teaching careers and offers transferable skills valuable across a wide variety of professions.
Students develop strong communication, analytical, interpretive, and organizational skills that enhance their career readiness.
Career pathways include:
- Middle school or high school English teacher (with completion of a Single Subject Credential)
- Reading and literacy specialist (with additional graduate study)
- Educational support roles, such as instructional aides or classroom support specialists
- Tutoring, writing center support, or literacy program coordination
- Curriculum development and educational content creation
- Youth programming and community education
- Education-related nonprofit and advocacy roles
- Writing, editing, communication, and media positions
The minor also provides essential preparation for graduate programs in teaching, English, education, literacy studies, or curriculum and instruction.
Sample Courses
Introduction to Literacy and Writing Studies
Examination of literacy as a historically and socially mediated set of values and practices, with specific consideration of how literacy functions in specific communities. Introduces students to related theories of writing and language use.
Studies in Global Literatures
Considers how global literatures are shaped by various historical and social processes driving conflict, connectivity, and cross-cultural exchange.
Teaching English in the Secondary Schools
English as a secondary school subject including language, literature, and composition. Emphasis on theories and practices associated with reading, writing, and assessment.
Meet Professor Karen Escalante, Ph.D.
Opportunities for Students
Students in the English Teacher Preparation minor benefit from a supportive academic environment and multiple opportunities to strengthen both content knowledge and instructional readiness:
- Coursework aligned with Single Subject Credential preparation in English language, literature, and writing
- Development of strong writing and communication skills, essential for teaching and beyond
- Exposure to adolescent literacy, language structure, and effective pedagogy
- Faculty mentorship from experts in literature, linguistics, rhetoric, English education, and teaching methodologies
- Opportunities to engage with schools and community literacy programs
- Participation in English Department events, workshops, and speaker series
- Collaboration with future teachers in Education and Liberal Studies programs
- A strong foundation for credential program applications and the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) in English
These experiences help students build confidence and competence as emerging educators while preparing them for the next steps in their teaching journey.
Similar to English Teacher Preparation (Minor Only)
With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.
Reyes Ortega Gonzalez
Administrative Support Coordinator
reyes.ortegagonzalez@csusb.edu
