Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Program

Male teacher leans over student looking at computer.

Offered both synchronously and asynchronously, the courses in the online Computer Science Supplementary Authorization (CSSA) Program will meet the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) requirements. The program is designed for practicing teachers in our community with an interest in adding a Computer Science Supplementary Authorization to their portfolio. Industry experts and highly qualified instructors from Cal State LA with experience in computer science will teach courses. Students can choose from one of two supplementary authorization programs.

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Upon completion of the program, teachers will be prepared to develop, implement, and adapt curriculum, and instructional strategies to promote foundational skills and knowledge science, computational thinking, and problem-solving with software.

To successfully complete the Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Program, students must receive a “C” or better grade in each class. Please visit the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This program is offered in partnership with the Department of Computer Science at Cal State LA.

A bachelor’s degree in any subject is required to enroll in the Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Program.

The Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Program is for K-12 practicing teachers, and school or district administrators in public or private schools with an interest in adding a Supplementary Authorization (introductory or specific) in computer science. 

The broad nature of the curriculum also makes it applicable to others seeking to further their knowledge in teaching computer science. Courses may qualify for salary points. Please check with your district.

Please note that priority will be given to credentialed teachers that will be ready to submit their request for an added computer science at the completion of the program.

Introductory Supplementary Authorization Program
Per unit cost: $250
Units required: 10
Total cost: $2,500
(See cost breakdown under Program Schedule.)
 
Some students may be eligible for up to $2,500 funded through the California Computer Science Supplementary Incentive Grant. Contact your school district or your corresponding county education office for your eligibility. 

Some students may be eligible for up to $500 from the MSTI grant to use toward tuition. This is only for teachers whose existing credential does not already permit the teaching of computer science courses. Contact the Cal State LA Computer Science Supplementary Authorization (CSSA) Program Director for more information.

Because this is not an academic degree-seeking program, this program does not qualify for financial aid.

Introductory Supplementary Authorization: Within one year, students will take three (3) courses, one every 10 weeks as offered. Subject areas include computational thinking, computing practice and programming, computer and communication devices, and computing's impacts.

  • CS 7010: Intro to Computational Thinking & Programming – 3 units (Prerequisite: Computer Literacy); $750

             (Summer 2025 dates TBA)

  • CS 7020: Programming and Data Structures – 4 units (Prerequisite: CS 7010) - 10-week session; $1,000 

             Spring 2025 Schedule:

             Tuesdays and Thursdays

             6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

  • CS 7100: Computer Systems and Networks - 3 units - 10-week session; $750 

             Spring 2025 Schedule:

             Mondays and Wednesdays

             6:00 to 7:53 p.m.

Enroll in the Computer Science Supplementary Authorization program.

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Join our interest list to learn more about the Computer Science Supplementary Authorization Program.

Please email Dr. David Krum, Program Director for information regarding the program and courses.

For registration assistance, please email the College of Professional and Global Education (PaGE) Student Services or call (213) 358-6570.