Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization

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Take the next step in expanding your teaching credentials. Apply now or request more information and begin exploring new opportunities in the classroom.

Application Deadline: February 20th

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It all computes: expanding your credential expands your impact

Develop the skills and credentials you need to teach one of the fastest-growing subjects in K–12 education. The Computer Science Supplementary Authorization at CSU Bakersfield is designed for currently credentialed teachers who want to expand their qualifications and bring high-demand computer science instruction to their schools. As districts across California work to increase access to technology education, teachers with computer science preparation are becoming essential – and this program provides a clear, flexible pathway to meet that need.

Through coursework built around foundational computer science concepts, programming principles, problem-solving, and instructional best practices, you’ll gain the knowledge required to teach introductory computer science at the K–9 level. Whether your goal is to lead beginning computer sciences courses, support your district’s integration of computer science standards, or strengthen your own digital literacy skills, this program equips you with practical tools you can apply immediately in the classroom.

The Computer Science Supplementary Authorization is ideal for teachers seeking professional advancement, credential expansion, or new opportunities in curriculum development, STEM instruction, and technology integration. Our online format allows you to balance your studies with your teaching schedule, while still benefiting from faculty support and a curriculum aligned with California’s authorization requirements.

As technology continues to shape how students learn, communicate, and problem-solve, teachers prepared to deliver high-quality computer science instruction play a critical role in preparing learners for future academic and career pathways. This program empowers you to be part of that impact, helping your students build confidence in computational thinking and digital creativity, while strengthening your own career prospects within your district and beyond.

At A Glance

Credits

Cost

$473 per credit

Modality

Online

Next Application Deadline

Spring 2026: February 20, 2026

Admissions Requirements

Hold a valid California multiple subject or single subject credential in any discipline and/or you are currently a Resident in one of CSUB's four Residency Programs
Demonstrate commitment to innovative approaches to teaching and learning
Ability to devote, at least, 10 hours a week to coursework sessions and assignments

Who is the program for?

The Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization (CSSA) is designed for K–9 teachers, site-based and district administrators, or other school officials interested in furthering their knowledge in computer science education and classroom integration, or teachers that need the authorization to teach computer science in a classroom setting.

Some courses can also count as electives towards a Master's Degree in Curriculum & Instruction. See the C&I website for more details regarding the Master's degree.

What you’ll learn

Completers of the Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization program will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge in central theories of computing and its impact on society
Apply computer science problem solving techniques
Effectively communicate technical concepts to a variety of audiences

Tuition and Fees

The Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization consists of a minimum of 12 credit units of instruction. Pricing is as follows:

$5,676Instruction

(12 units at $473 per unit)

$500Miscellaneous Supplies

$35Application Fee

Approximate Total Cost of Program:$6,211

CSUB Extended Education makes every effort to keep student costs low; however, all listed fees are estimates and may be increased or modified — including after initial payment — in accordance with approval processes and the Working Families Student Fee Transparency and Accountability Act (Education Code §§66028–66028.6).

Note: Program is not eligible for FAFSA-based financial aid. Courses may be eligible for financial aid if taken as electives in the Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction program.

Course Descriptions

A graduate level course offered in an online format that satisfies the Computational Thinking requirement for an Introductory Supplementary Authorization in Computer Science. Topics include solving problems and designing systems using fundamental computing concepts such as decomposition, data representation, generalization/abstraction and algorithms. Students will learn effective computational thinking and programming techniques for the classroom through study of historically significant works, conducting literature search in methods/case studies, and critical discussion in seminar setting.

A graduate level course in an online format that satisfies the Computing Practice and Programming requirement for an Introductory Supplementary Authorization in Computer Science. This course has two objectives. First, exposure to a high-level, modern programming language. Students develop programming skills by completing lab activities in expressions, control of flow, functions, lists, arrays, strings, and automation of common computing tasks. Second, to demonstrate expertise in a block programming language. Through study of a current block programming language students will understand effective ways and mediums to teach programming in the classroom.

A graduate level course in a hybrid format that satisfies the Computers and Communication Devices requirement for an Introductory Supplementary Authorization in Computer Science. Students will learn about the major components and functions of digital devices, the computing systems they compose, and communication between devices. Specific topics include application of logic, I/O, and wireless communication on an embedded computing platform designed for education. Through interactive design activities students will learn methods that can be practically applied in the classroom. The class culminates in a physical presentation of a lesson plan with tinkering and embedded computing devices to demonstrate expertise in digital devices. SCI 5210 Computing Practice and Programming is a prerequisite for this course.

A graduate level course in an online format that satisfies the Impacts of Computing requirement for an Introductory Supplementary Authorization in Computer Science. Topics include social, ethical and legal issues and impacts of computing as well as the contributions of computer science to current and future innovations in the arts, business, humanities, medicine and science. Students develop competency through critical discussion and debate in a seminar style setting.

How to Apply & Upcoming Deadlines

Application to the Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization at CSU Bakersfield requires the following:

Complete Application

Transcripts

Supplemental Items

Application Fee

Introductory Computer Science Supplementary Authorization application (paper based - available here)
One set of unofficial transcripts showing Bachelor's degree awarded
Two letters of recommendation from district or site administrators
Statement of purpose
- Attach a written statement to your application describing how you have used computer science concepts in your instruction thus far in your career, and how you hope this program will complement your ability to teach your students. Minimum one page in length.
2.75 GPA in the last 60 semester units
Valid California Single or Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
$35 application fee

All materials should be submitted to:

CSU Bakersfield Extended Education
9001 Stockdale Highway – 30 BDC
Bakersfield, CA 93311

Application Deadline
Spring 2026 Semester Admission:
February 20, 2026