San Jose State
At San Jose State University, approximately 80% of single subject science credential candidates are career changers, making a transition from their Silicon Valley careers to science teaching. This group represents a talented pool of scientists, engineers, high tech leaders and physicians who wish to give back to their community by becoming science teachers. San Jose State provides one-on-one advising sessions for this group, focusing on the challenges of changing careers as well as the required steps for applying to our credential program.
SJSU provides the opportunity for students to enroll in an intern cohort that begins each summer and offers an initial Secondary Science methods course. Students planning to be interns enroll in this methods course and other basic courses and can start teaching in the fall. Because candidates are prepared to serve as intern teachers upon the completion of this program this represents a highly efficient pathway to a credential. An SJSU faculty member is made available as an advisor for students during the summer, enabling them to plan a program of study that matches their background and interests.
SJSU is the Northern California academic partner with IBM's "Transition to Teaching" program, which provides IBM employees up to $15, 0000 in support for tuition and stipends as they leave IBM to pursue teaching careers in math and science. The SJSU program staff is dedicated to helping the cohort make a smooth transition from their Silicon Valley careers to their new careers as a science teacher.