| Education Deans & Directors Council |
Education Deans & Directors CouncilThe AICCU Education Deans and Directors Council (EDC) was formed in 2021 to provide leadership and grow recognition of the important role of the 43 colleges, schools, and programs of education. Together, AICCU teacher preparation programs are enrolling 45% of teacher candidates – making us a critical provider of the California teacher workforce. About AICCU Teacher PreparationThe educator workforce is critical to California’s present and future. The pandemic has only further stressed a workforce that has seen an increasing statewide shortage for many years. Educator preparation programs at the colleges and universities in AICCU play a vital role in preparing diverse teachers and administrators that our state will need. Together, independent, nonprofit colleges and universities enroll 45% of students in teacher education programs, and credential 43% of new teachers. The teacher pipeline must be strengthened, and access to financial aid, transfer opportunities, and support for underrepresented students are important to that effort. AICCU and the colleges, schools, and programs of education embrace partnerships with P-12 institutions, intersegmental partnerships with CSU, UC, and California Community Colleges, education organizations and the policy making community to recruit, prepare and support a vibrant and diverse pool of teachers, specialists, and administrators. About AICCU Education Deans and Directors CouncilThe AICCU Education Deans and Directors Council (EDC) was formed in 2021 to provide leadership for the 43 independent, nonprofit colleges, schools, and programs of education. The EDC—comprised of deans, directors, and associate/assistant deans and directors—provides a singular voice for the diverse set of educator schools and programs when speaking before the Legislature, the governor’s office, the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), and other policymakers. The organization is led by an Executive Committee that include education deans and directors, a representative from AICCU, and the AICCU sector representative to the CTC. Executive Committee MembersSchools of EducationAICCU Schools of Education are located throughout the state, providing regional access for students and connection to local P-12 district partners to create meaningful learning communities. Visit these schools and learn more about their programs. List of Institutions
Alder Graduate School of EducationRedwood CityAlder Graduate School of Education (Alder GSE) is an accredited, non-profit residency model with programs across California. We provide a Master's and Teaching Credential in one rigorous year while offering hands-on training with a mentor teacher in actual classrooms. Our diverse class of graduates, composed of eighty percent of historically underrepresented groups, receive priority hiring at their schools of training and remain in the classroom longer than national averages. 
Azusa Pacific University, School of EducationAzusaThe School of Education at Azusa Pacific University equips teachers, school counselors and school psychologists, and administrators who make a difference as leaders and champions for students in diverse educational settings. Providing comprehensive graduate education degrees, the school offers an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and degrees in teaching, learning and technology, special education, and school counseling and school psychology. Recognized among teacher preparation programs for excellence, the school also offers single subject and multiple subject teaching credentials, as well as mild/moderate and moderate/severe special education credentials. 
Biola University, School of EducationLa MiradaOur flexible program options — including fully online credential programs and integrated education master’s degree opportunities — offer you several paths to becoming a teacher in California. Programs may be taken as stand alone credential programs, or as combined master’s and teaching credential programs. Take the next step in your career and apply for one of our teaching credential programs.. 
California Baptist University, Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of EducationRiversideOur graduates serve as professionals in a wide variety of educational settings. We ground our candidates in teaching-learning theory and equip them with the practical skills needed to create positive, inclusive learning environments that honors each person’s created purpose. We help our candidates reach all learners in a wide range of educational settings. Our goal is to teach our candidates how to create self-sufficient, lifelong learners who master content, critically analyze what they learn, collaborate well with others, develop innovative solutions, become leaders in biblical justice and communicate effectively. 
California Lutheran University, Graduate School of EducationThousand OaksAt the Cal Lutheran Graduate School of Education, you will turn theory into practice, learn one-on-one with experienced faculty, and collaborate with public, private, and charter schools—from kindergarten through higher education—as well as other community-minded organizations. You will pursue your purpose through both experiential instruction and personal growth in an environment dedicated to introspection and exploration, preparing you as an innovative, transformative leader. The quality of your education is ensured by our accreditation approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. 
Chapman University, Attallah College of Educational StudiesOrangeChapman's personalized education gives each student a unique opportunity to become an original thinker who rises to the world’s challenges. We’re here to make something: films, business models, lines of code—to bring them to life and deliver them to the world. Our inclusive, empowering community fosters creative thinking and expression of all perspectives. Chapman’s campus is the perfect size—not too big, not too small—allowing for effective, innovative programs to be a focal point of our institution. We work to connect students to faculty and the community to keep students engaged in the larger world. We're here to see what we can do. So when we have finally reached where we've worked so hard to be, we'll have every experience at Chapman inside us. Every person we found inspirational behind us. Every lesson we learned within us. 
Claremont Graduate University, School of Educational StudiesClaremontCGU’s overarching transdisciplinary orientation encourages new ways of thinking and doing in education. Students in the School of Educational Studies’ high-quality MA and PhD programs are encouraged to cross disciplinary boundaries to create novel solutions to problems in education and community. Our Teacher Education/Credential programs are clinically based, providing extensive hands-on teaching experience to students and creating highly effective teachers who earn more. SES offers degree programs found nowhere else, such as our innovative, cohort-based Urban Educational Leadership PhD program, designed to meet the specific needs of urban K–14 educational leaders, our MA program in Education Evaluation & Data Analysis, and our MA program in Community Engaged Education & Social Change. 
Concordia University Irvine, School of EducationIrvineThe School of Education has a rich tradition of training teachers. We have graduates teaching literally around the world as a part of our mission to go into the world and serve. Our graduates are recognized as outstanding in their field. Training teachers was an original goal when the school first opened as Christ College, Irvine in 1976. Formal recognition of the School of Education as one of only three schools within Concordia University was not until 1995. Since our humble beginnings, we have had thousands of teachers in our undergraduate and graduate programs move into careers in education. We currently serve over one thousand graduate and undergraduate students on campus, online, and in our regional cohorts in Temecula, Orange County, Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire. 
Dominican University of California, School of Liberal Arts and EducationSan RafaelFounded in 1890, Dominican University of California is an independent institution offering more than 60 majors, minors and concentrations. Over our 130 years of preparing students for fulfilling professional and personal lives, we’ve earned a reputation for excellence in academics, research, outreach and community involvement. We are located in the San Francisco Bay Area, in beautiful Marin County, California. 
EDvance CollegeSan FranciscoFounded in 2021, EDvance College is an independent, nonprofit institution dedicated to expanding access to higher education for early childhood educators. Our mission is to remove barriers to degree completion by offering a flexible, affordable, and practice-based bachelor’s degree program tailored for working adults. Through dynamic online instruction, personalized student support, and partnerships with employers and community-based organizations, EDvance ensures that educators can advance in their careers while continuing to serve young children and families. We are committed to workforce development and the belief that high-quality education begins with a well-prepared and supported educator workforce. 
Fresno Pacific University, School of EducationFresnoFresno Pacific University is the Valley’s only accredited Christian university, connecting every student’s untapped potential with unlimited opportunity for professional, personal and ethical growth. Nonprofit and independent, FPU offers more than 100 areas of study to about 4,000 traditional undergraduate, adult degree completion, graduate and seminary students at the main campus in Southeast Fresno and throughout the Valley at regional campuses in North Fresno, Visalia, Bakersfield and Merced as well as online. Our students chase big ideas and explore deep faith through five schools. 
Hope International University, College of EducationFullertonHope International University is a private Christian university founded in 1928. HIU’s mission is to empower students through Christian higher education to serve the Church and impact the world for Christ. HIU is regionally accredited and offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, certificate programs, and credential programs to more than 2,000 students world-wide. 
Humphreys UniversityStocktonStarting out as a secretarial and vocational school, to a two-year degree granting institution, to a four-year degree granting institution, to a regionally accredited undergraduate and graduate school. Our mission has always been to offer student-oriented instruction in career-oriented fields, with a foundation in liberal arts. Never focused on mass-production, we are committed to small class sizes, quality service, personalized attention, and meeting the needs of individual students. 
La Sierra University, School of EducationRiversideThe Seventh-day Adventist denomination established La Sierra University in 1922 on acreage formerly part of the Rancho La Sierra Mexican land grant. Today the institution provides more than 120 bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees for about 2,300 students. “To Seek, To Know, and To Serve” is the key to the mission that drives La Sierra University, with all areas of campus encouraging students to develop a deeper relationship with God. 
Loma Linda University, School of Behavioral HealthLoma LindaLoma Linda University's rich history of providing health care in the community began with the inception of the Schools of Medicine and Nursing in 1909. Loma Linda University established the Master of Arts in Family Life Education and the Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1954. The MFT program is now one of several degree programs housed in the Department of Counseling and Family Sciences. 
Los Angeles Pacific UniversitySan DimasWe exist to help you reach your goals. L.A. Pacific is California’s most affordable online Christian university, making the dream of college a reality for more people. Built specifically for busy adults. Convenient and mobile. Supportive, with dedicated 1-on-1 support. Let our students and faculty tell you why they love LAPU! 
Loyola Marymount University, School of EducationLos AngelesAt the SOE, you'll not only benefit from our small classes and personal attention, but from our longstanding and unswerving commitment to multiculturalism and social justice. The SOE's approach will inform, inspire, and prepare you for a diverse world. With its Jesuit and Marymount educational heritage and strong commitment to social justice, the School focuses on promoting six attributes among the graduates of our programs. These include cultural responsiveness and respect for the individual. Learn more about our mission. 
Mount Saint Mary's UniversityLos AngelesOur Education and Teacher Credentialing programs at Mount Saint Mary’s University are founded on a commitment to social justice, inclusiveness, and leadership. We develop and empower teachers at every stage of their careers by providing them with academic and professional guidance throughout the credentialing process. Our program also helps prepare students to be competent, confident and successful teachers from the very first moment they step into their classroom. Our students also benefit from small, intimate classes, dynamic classroom conversations and readily-accessible faculty. Our diverse faculty members challenge our students to grow as future leaders and educators. Assignments are timely, relevant, and geared towards the professional development of our students. 
National University, Sanford College of EducationSan DiegoThe Sanford College of Education at National University offers over 50 on-site and online programs in the areas of teacher education, special education, educational administration and school counseling and psychology. The college has earned accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), recognizing its rigorous, evidence-based standards for teacher education programs. 
Northeastern University OaklandOaklandThe Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education with Early Childhood Special Education Preliminary Teaching Credential prepares students to work in early intervention, preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten education settings with infants and young children (ages birth through 5) who experience a range of disabilities. This program’s equity-centered approach to praxis advances social justice and increases access and opportunity for all children. 
Notre Dame de Namur University, School of EducationBelmontFounded upon the values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and rooted in the Catholic tradition, Notre Dame de Namur University serves its students and the community by providing excellent professional and liberal arts programs in which community engagement and the values of social justice and global peace are integral to the learning experience. NDNU is a diverse and inclusive learning community that challenges each member to consciously apply values and ethics in his or her personal, professional, and public life. 
Pacific Oaks College, School of EducationPasadenaRooted in the extraordinary potential that lives in every human being, Pacific Oaks offers an environment where your perspective and experience can play an integral part in your educational journey. Through our unique progressive approach to teaching and learning, everyone in our classrooms is both student and teacher. Students relate subjects to their own personal experiences—sharing with the teacher and fellow students. From this unique pedagogy, you will learn from sharing your experiences as well as hearing those of your fellow classmates. 
Pacific Union CollegeAngwinAs an accredited Seventh-day Adventist Christian liberal arts college, PUC will provide you with all the advantages of a larger university—a strong academic reputation; over 70 degrees and programs; cutting edge research; classes taught by Fulbright scholars; and a diverse student body—but with the benefits of a small college focused on the undergraduate experience and in an atmosphere of Christian community. As an added bonus, you’ll live and learn in the breathtakingly beautiful Napa Valley area of Northern California. 
Pepperdine University, Graduate School of Education and PsychologyMalibuThe Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) enrolls approximately 1,600 students. With our main headquarters located at the West Los Angeles Graduate Campus, the Graduate School also offers select programs at graduate campuses in Calabasas, Irvine, and Malibu, as well as online. With the growing emphasis on improving educational techniques in the public and private school systems statewide, Pepperdine University met increasing demands for leadership and transformed its existing Department of Education into a professional School of Education. The school was formally established on January 1, 1971. In March 1982, the Graduate School of Education officially changed its name to the Graduate School of Education and Psychology. 
Point Loma Nazarene University, School of EducationSan DeigoAs part of PLNU's School of Education, your journey toward an education degree will be supported by a strong network, connected to people and practical experience in the field, and equip you with the confidence to succeed through graduation and beyond. You'll join a group of students, faculty, and alumni who are highly sought after and well respected in their local education communities throughout San Diego, Bakersfield, and the entire state of California for their deep commitment to their craft and calling. Whether you're looking to earn a credential, added authorization, or a bachelor's degree or master's degree in education, PLNU's School of Education has you covered. 
Reach UniversityOaklandOur mission is to help schools grow their own highly effective teachers and leaders, pursuing equity in underserved urban and rural communities. We also seek to advance the efficacy and adoption in higher education of inquiry-based instructional methods and job-embedded degree pathways. 
Saint Mary's College of California, Kaimanovitz School of EducationMoragaFounded in 1863, Saint Mary’s is rooted in inclusive excellence and community. Today, the College is proud to have over 3,600 Gaels across 43 majors, and 56,000 living alumni, all purposefully creative and grounded in Lasallian devotion to social justice. Saint Mary’s College offers an innovative educational experience through January Term and Collegiate Seminar so that students are equipped with more at every step and fulfillment for every potential. 
San Diego Christian College, Department of EducationSan DiegoThe Teacher Credential Program (TCP) is for anyone who does not have a California Teaching Credential and is seeking a credential to teach in a K-12 classroom. We have a variety of content areas: Social Science (History), English, Art, Music, Math, Science, and Physical Education. The TCP at SDCC is designed to meet the needs of working professionals without compromising standards for credentialing or for the classroom. The mission and vision of the Department of Education at SDCC is to nurture and develop excellent Christian educators who have an appropriate subject-matter foundation with an understanding of student behavior, competence in teaching, the ability to develop and encourage critical judgment and creativity, and a commitment to the highest ethical standards and Christian service. 
Santa Clara University, School of Education and Counseling PsychologySanta ClaraOur vision imagines a region and a world in which everyone has access to an inspiring education and is provided the psychological tools and support needed to propel them toward flourishing lives of meaning, purpose and connection. We see ourselves as a strong community partner that serves this vision in our region. To embody that vision, our mission is to prepare outstanding therapists, educators, and advocates, grounded in the Jesuit values of a deep respect for all and a focus on social justice. Our mission is to develop professionals who will serve and positively transform schools, communities, and the greater society through their work. 
Simpson University School of EducationReddingAt Simpson University, we believe the mission of education is to provide visionary leadership: a call for both educators and students to become what they are capable of becoming, allowing them to create the future they imagine. Whether you’re looking to enhance your mastery in the classroom, or move into leadership or administration fields, we’ll provide the tools that will allow you to confidently pursue your passion, while adequately preparing you to meet the challenges of today’s educational system. 
Stanford University, Graduate School of EducationStanfordNow is a transformational time in education. We are on the cusp of imminent breakthroughs that will change our ability to improve teaching and learning for all. Stanford Graduate School of Education is helping students, educators, policymakers, parents and institutions make headway in areas that were once out of reach. We are advancing research, strengthening programs and creating new initiatives that catalyze the distinctive scholarship of Stanford. 
The Master's University, Pearl C. Schaffer School of EducationSanta ClaritaSince 1927, The Master’s University has transformed young people to have an impact for Christ in the world. Committed faculty and staff pour their lives into students, teaching every subject with a biblical worldview. We hold firm to the sufficiency, inerrancy, and authority of Scripture in our uncompromising commitment to Christ and Scripture. TMU not only compels students to academic achievement and professional excellence, but we develop wisdom, establish convictions, and produce leaders in every student. Each graduate is set on the path to success with the skills and perspective to do all they do for the honor of our great God. 
Touro University California, Graduate School of EducationVallejoEstablished in 1997, Touro University California offers graduate degrees in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, nursing, public health and education. The mission of Touro University is to educate caring professionals to serve, to lead and to teach. Students from diverse backgrounds are recruited nationally to create a dynamic, robust learning environment. 
University of La Verne, LaFetra College of EducationLa VerneFounded in 1891, the university is composed of the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Public Management, the LaFetra College of Education, the College of Health and Community Well-Being, and the College of Law, eight regional campuses throughout Southern California, and robust online offerings. Scholastic opportunities abound, thanks to more than 50 undergraduate programs, more than 20 master’s degrees, five doctorates, and six credential programs. Across all of the colleges, La Verne’s approximately 6,000 traditional age and adult learners help make the federally-designated Hispanic-Serving university one of the most diverse universities in the nation. Nearly half of the traditional undergraduates are first-generation students – the first in their immediate families to attend college. More than 70 percent of University of La Verne students receive some form of financial aid. 
University of Massachusetts Global, School of EducationIrvineThe mission of the University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is to develop innovative and caring leaders, scholars, and practitioners who collaborate to solve complex problems, transform organizations, and educate diverse student populations through discovery, inspiration, and innovation. 
University of Redlands, School of EducationRedlandsWelcoming intellectually curious students of diverse religious, ethnic, national and socioeconomic backgrounds, the University seeks to develop responsible citizenship as part of a complete education. Redlands encourages a community atmosphere with exceptional opportunity for student leadership and interaction. For working adults, the University offers innovative academic programs at convenient locations and times. 
University of San Diego, School of Leadership and Education SciencesSan DiegoThe University of San Diego is set at the edge of an international gateway on a campus that's consistently ranked among the nation's most beautiful. Our focus on academic excellence — inspired by faith, infused with contemporary Catholic values and nurtured in a warm, community environment — empowers innovative, confident, original thinkers to make positive contributions by confronting humanity's urgent challenges in places near and far. 
University of San Francisco, School of EducationSan FranciscoAt the School of Education, our faculty, staff, and students are scholars and social justice advocates engaged within the diverse San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. With over 20 master's and doctoral programs, including programs at USF's additional locations, we welcome students who seek to make an impact and who are committed to serving those most in need. The school’s mission is to act collectively and leverage our resources in ways that are driven by our Jesuit mission and responsive to our constituents’ needs. We strive to have measurable impact in schools and communities, particularly for those most affected by injustice. 
University of Southern California, Rossier School of EducationLos AngelesThe mission of the USC Rossier School of Education is to prepare leaders to achieve educational equity through practice, research and policy. We work to improve learning opportunities and outcomes in urban settings and to address disparities that affect historically marginalized groups. We teach our students to value and respect the cultural context of the communities in which they work and to interrogate the systems of power that shape policies and practices. Through innovative thinking and research, we strive to solve the most intractable educational problems. The USC Rossier School of Education is part of the University of Southern California, one of the world’s leading private research universities. 
University of the Pacific, Benerd CollegeStocktonAt Benerd College, you'll find flexible formats that help you meet your goals. We offer quality degree programs, continuing education courses, certificate programs and lifelong learning opportunities. Benerd prepares reflective, creative, caring and collaborative professionals. Our program focuses on flexibility and innovation to meet your needs. Benerd College has many programs that engage our students with our communities throughout Northern California and beyond. 
Vanguard University, Division of Arts, Education and HumanitiesCosta MesaThe mission of the graduate program in education is to provide a supportive, reflective learning community in which teachers develop the professional relationships, skills, and knowledge base necessary to empower all students to reach their highest potential. This program integrates vibrant Christian faith with all facets of learning and life. 
Westmont College, Education and Liberal StudiesSanta BarbaraWestmont's commitment to liberal arts emphasizes making connections among disciplines, blending doing and thinking, sciences and humanities, individual and community. Convention says that you have to choose between scholarly knowledge and scriptural truth. But that's like using only half your brain, or relying on only half the information. 
Whittier CollegeWhittierWhittier is a place where students become actively involved in the local community as they explore their role in the global community, too. Our residential nature is a key component in defining who we are, as students and professors live and learn in close proximity to one another, fostering an atmosphere where knowledge can be pursued 24/7. This is a community where individuality is valued, tolerance is cherished, and the things that make each of us unique are seen as invaluable tools in seeking greater knowledge and understanding. 
William Jessup University, School of EducationRocklinAs a nationally-ranked Christian university, William Jessup University seeks to develop the whole person by developing skills in communication, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking and by exposing students to a broad cross-section of knowledge in science, social science, and the humanities. Teacher Education Advocacy
Policy PrioritiesCalifornia Commission on Teacher CredentialingCalifornia Student Aid CommissionSector Factsheets |
The Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU) is comprised of over 80 independent, nonprofit colleges and universities, which make up the Independent California Colleges and Universities (ICCU) sector. The ICCU sector plays a pivotal role in the development of the state's model higher education offerings and in making California a symbol of innovation across the globe. Within California, ICCU institutions award 19% of all bachelor's degrees, and 55% of all graduate degrees, making them the largest preparers of California's advanced workforce.
