Phone: 209-946-2683
Location: Gladys L. Benerd Building
Patricia J. Campbell, Ph.D., Dean
Undergraduate Programs Offered
Bachelor of Arts in General Studies / Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Teaching
(blended program) (Online Campus)
Bachelor of Science (Stockton Campus)
Majors Offered
Healthcare Administration and Leadership (Online Campus)
Organizational Leadership (Stockton Campus)
Minors Offered
Teaching Professions
This is a professional school of University of the Pacific that offers programs for Bachelor of Science, Master’s, Educational Specialist, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Graduate Programs Offered
Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in: (Stockton Campus)
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Professional Clinical Counseling
- Child and Adolescent Counseling
Master of Arts (MA) in Education with concentrations in:
- Counseling Psychology (Stockton Campus)
- Health Professions Education (Sacramento Campus)
- Learning, Innovation and Design (Stockton Campus)
- Special Education (mild to moderate support needs and/or extensive support needs credential options) (Stockton Campus and Sacramento Campus)
- Teaching (multiple subject and single subject credential options) (Stockton Campus)
Master of Arts (MA) in Leadership with concentrations in:
- Organizational Innovation and Change (Online Campus)
- Leading for Social Impact (Stockton Campus)
Educational Specialist (EdS)
- School Psychology (and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology) (Stockton Campus)
Doctor of Education (EdD) in Education with concentrations in:
- Counseling Psychology (Stockton Campus)
- Leadership and Innovation (Sacramento Campus)
- Transformative Action in Education (Stockton Campus)
Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD)
- Counseling Psychology (Psychologist License Eligible) (Stockton Campus)
Credentials Offered
Preliminary Multiple Subject Credential (Stockton Campus)
Preliminary Single Subject Credential in the following areas:
- Art, English, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, World Languages, Physical Education, and Music. (Stockton Campus)
Preliminary Special Education Credential in the following areas:
- Educational Specialist (MMSN - mild to moderate support needs) (Stockton Campus)
- Educational Specialist (ESN - extensive support needs) (Stockton Campus)
Services credentials in the following categories:
- Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology (Stockton Campus)
- Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential (For more information contact Speech Language Pathology Department) (Stockton Campus)
Mission
The mission of Benerd College is to prepare thoughtful, reflective, creative, caring and collaborative professionals for service to diverse populations through personalized and transformational learning experiences.
Core Values of Benerd College
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Personalized and Transformational Learning: We provide personalized, transformational experiences for students from all backgrounds and experiences who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
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Strength-based Community Focus: We build upon the strengths of our region by working within our diverse communities to be a true partner in helping Northern California realize its full potential.
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Innovation and Learning: In everything we do, we explicitly focus on fostering hubs of innovation and learning throughout Northern California, which will serve as living models for how educators can partner with their communities to influence real change.
The History of Benerd College
In July of 2019 Benerd College was established by joining together two existing colleges (Gladys L. Benerd School of Education and University College), each with a deep, rich history. The Gladys L. Benerd School of Education was organized at University of the Pacific in 1923 and officially recognized by the California State Department of Education on January 10, 1924; offered bachelor's through doctoral degrees focused on developing exceptional educators and innovative leaders and compassionate and skilled counselors. Established in 1972 to provide academic and support services to adult students starting or returning to college, University College provided the avenue for students to pursue bachelor’s degrees in disciplines across the university, alongside traditional students in mostly daytime classes. Benerd College (BC) offers the full spectrum of educational opportunities for traditional and non-traditional students, and through its continuing education and professional development, it extends that opportunity out into the community.
Accreditation
The University of the Pacific was the first university in California whose professional education programs were fully approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC). Although teacher education is considered to be an all-University responsibility, all professional education degrees and credential programs at University of the Pacific are offered and coordinated through Benerd College. Continuing accreditation by the CCTC has been conferred through the year 2027 on all eligible programs in Benerd College. Benerd’s Counseling and School Psychology program is accredited by the National Association for School Psychologists (NASP).
Benerd College Offerings
Through its academic departments, the College offers Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, Educational Specialist, and Doctor of Education degrees, as well as California credential programs in Multiple Subject, Single Subject, Special Education, and Pupil Personnel Services in School Psychology. Benerd also serves as home to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI).
At the undergraduate level, the education programs prepare classroom teachers, while the degree completion programs are focused on leadership. At the graduate level, programs prepare instructional specialists, school psychologists, supervisors, and leaders in higher education, non-profit, and other organizations.
The College offers extension and enrichment courses for current Pacific students and members of the community, and courses for UOP International students introducing them to the culture and history of the region. In addition, Benerd College serves as a major regional center for continuing education units, professional development, customized workforce training and lifelong learning. From single courses, to full certificate programs, with formats including in-seat, hybrid, and online/distance learning, our programs and services are designed to meet the non-traditional academic, professional, and personal development needs of San Joaquin County and surrounding areas.
Student Organizations
Student organizations in Benerd College include the School of Education Student Association (SESA); a student chapter of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; a student chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC); the Math, Science, and Critical Thinking Club; the Music Education Student Association (MESA); and the Pacific School Psychology Association (PSPA).
Membership in these student organizations is open to all undergraduate students who are enrolled in Benerd College and all graduate students who are working toward a credential or an advanced degree offered through Benerd College and who have paid the ASUOP student body fees.
Facilities and Support Services
The Hive is a one-stop shop for student support services including advising and credential related services. Benerd College has a state-of-the-art flexible learning classroom, and the University Library contains other comprehensive resources for students in education in its collections of books, professional periodicals, pamphlets, microfilms, and other reference materials.
The Speech, Hearing and Language Center in the School of Pharmacy provides a program for children and adults who need individual or group therapy for such challenges as stuttering, cleft palate, aphasia, cerebral palsy, articulation, and delayed speech, and it provides speech reading for the hard of hearing. Comprehensive audiological assessment is also available for children and adults.
Earning a Credential to Teach
Benerd College provides programs whereby any student in any unit of the Stockton campus can prepare for a teaching career. Benerd is committed to a philosophy of combining professional theory with practical fieldwork and utilizes the unique diversity of Stockton area schools as laboratories for teacher preparation. Benerd College insists that students meet qualitative criteria. They must be strong academically, respect and relate well to children and other students, be of fine character, and be recommended by persons who know of their capabilities. Teacher candidates must demonstrate that they are fully committed to achieving excellence in teaching.
So that students can assess themselves, their relationships with children, and their willingness to commit to excellence in teacher preparation, any freshman or higher-level student may enroll in the sequence of prerequisite courses prior to the professional course sequence and directed teaching.
Services for Out-of-State Teachers
Teachers who have been prepared in other states may apply directly to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, 1900 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95814-4213. Such teachers may enter Pacific for the purposes of earning a credential or satisfying selected requirements. A credential file should be opened, with the credential analyst being given copies of credential documents. Admission to a Pacific’s graduate program is also necessary. Benerd College recommends the appropriate credential when California requirements are met if the necessary study is completed at this institution. A fee of $30 is required to open a credential file.
Services for Prospective Transfer Students
Students who contemplate transferring to qualify for a teaching credential may write to Benerd College or phone (209) 946-2558 or 946-2685 to confer about course selection. They may also contact the University’s Office of Admissions for transfer admission requirements, (209) 946-2211. Graduating University seniors contact the Graduate Studies for information and application and confer with Benerd College. If the GPA for junior/senior years is above 3.0, they can inquire about the Master of Education degree which includes credential preparation.
Programs in English as a Second Language: Pedagogy Major for International Students
Benerd College offers an undergraduate program for international students who wish to become teachers of ESL (English as a Second Language) or EFL (English as a Foreign Language). At the undergraduate level, international students may choose the Pedagogy Major with a specialization in either Language and Culture or Second Language Pedagogy. (See description under Degrees in Benerd College for specific courses required for the Pedagogy Major.)
Program To Earn a Credential
Students seeking a credential-only pathway may pursue post-baccalaureate programs of study through the Credential-Only Program. The School offers a Preliminary Single Subject Credential, a Multiple Subject Credential, or a Special Education Credential (Mild/Moderate Support Needs and Extensive Support Needs).
| Single Subject Courses: | ||
| I. Prerequisite courses: | ||
| EDUC 216 | Nature and Conditions of Learning | 3 |
| EDUC 259 | Teaching English Learners | 3 |
| II. Professional Teacher Education Courses for the Single Subject Credential | ||
| EDUC 255 | Teaching in the Content Areas I | 3 |
| EDUC 254 | Productive Learning Environments for Diverse Adolescents | 3 |
| EDUC 256 | Content and Disciplinary Literacy Development in Secondary Schools | 3 |
| EDUC 265 | Teaching in the Content Areas II | 2 |
| SPED 225X | Teaching Exceptional Learners | 2-3 |
| SPED 295E | Positive Behavioral Support in the Classroom | 3 |
| III. Directed Teaching: Typically 2-4 units | ||
| EDUC 270 | Professional Practice | 1-10 |
| EDUC 272 | Professional Practice Seminar | 1 |
| Multiple Subject Courses: | ||
| I. Prerequisite courses: | ||
| EDUC 216 | Nature and Conditions of Learning | 3 |
| EDUC 259 | Teaching English Learners | 3 |
| II. Professional Teacher Education Courses for the Single Subject Credential | ||
| EDUC 250 | Teaching and Assessment | 3 |
| EDUC 253 | Teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) | 4 |
| EDUC 261 | Literacy Development | 4 |
| SPED 225X | Teaching Exceptional Learners | 2-3 |
| SPED 295E | Positive Behavioral Support in the Classroom | 3 |
| III. Directed Teaching: Typically 2-4 units | ||
| EDUC 270 | Professional Practice | 1-10 |
| EDUC 272 | Professional Practice Seminar | 1 |
| EDUC 216 | Nature and Conditions of Learning | 3 |
| EDUC 259 | Teaching English Learners | 3 |
| II. Professional Teacher Education Courses for the Single Subject Credential | ||
| EDUC 261 | Literacy Development | 4 |
| SPED 224 | Assessment in Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 225X | Teaching Exceptional Learners | 2-3 |
| SPED 228 | Advanced Programming in Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 231 | Evidence Based Practices in Autism Spectrum Disorder | 3 |
| SPED 242 | Curriculum and Instruction in Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 266 | Building Family & Professional Partnerships | 3 |
| SPED 295A | Seminar: Crucial Issues in Special Education | 3 |
| SPED 295E | Positive Behavioral Support in the Classroom | 3 |
| III. Directed Teaching: Typically 1-2 units | ||
Programs to Earn Multiple Subject Credential
The courses and experiential learning opportunities for students seeking a multiple subject credential are included as a part of the Master of Arts with credential program discussed below under “Graduate Degrees.” As noted, students also have the option of earning a credential through post-baccalaureate programs of study (credential only or MA). These are discussed in the Graduate Catalog.
Programs to Earn Credentials to Teach Special Education
The courses and experiential learning opportunities for students who seek to become special education teachers (Educational Specialist credentials in mild to moderate support needs and/or extensive support needs Preliminary Credentials) are discussed below under “Graduate Degrees.” As noted, students also have the option of earning a credential through post-baccalaureate programs of study (credential only or MA). These are discussed in the Graduate Catalog.
Programs To Earn Single Subject Credential
Undergraduate students who seek to earn a single subject credential in one of the following areas: English, Art, Social Sciences, Sciences, Mathematics, World Languages, Music, and Physical Education consult with a faculty advisor in the appropriate academic department. Undergraduates can plan to earn a single subject credential concurrent with the bachelor's degree in selected content fields. The option of earning a credential through post-baccalaureate programs of study (credential only or MA) is available as well. Students should consult with a Benerd College advisor for appropriate education courses.
The School offers a Preliminary Single Subject Credential Program that consists of the following:
I. Prerequisite courses:
| EDUC 130 | Technology Enhanced Learning Environments | 2 |
| EDUC 140 | Transformational Teaching and Learning | 4 |
| EDUC 141 | Transformational Teaching and Learning Practicum * | 2 |
- *
EDUC 141 is not taken by Music Education students.
II. Professional Teacher Education Courses for the Single Subject Credential
| EDUC 155 | Teaching in the Content Areas I | 3 |
| EDUC 167 | Adolescent Development | 3 |
| EDUC 154 | Productive Learning Environments for Diverse Secondary Classrooms | 2 |
| EDUC 156 | Content and Disciplinary Literacy Development in Secondary Schools | 3 |
| EDUC 165 | Teaching in the Content Areas II | 2 |
| EDUC 166 | Teaching English Learners, Single Subject | 3 |
The Single Subject Program in Music Education and Physical Education take methods courses in their content fields.
III. Directed Teaching: Typically 10-12 units
| EDUC 170 | Professional Practice | 1-10 |
| EDUC 172 | Professional Practice Seminar | 1 |
Normally, EDUC 170 and EDUC 172 total 10 to 12 units.
Completion of the following course:
| SPED 125X | Teaching Exceptional Learners | 2 |
In addition to meeting degree requirements and completion the program outlines above, a student who seeks a Single Subject Preliminary Requirement must also:
- Meet the Basic Skills Requirement or Commission of Teacher Credentialing approved alternative assessment prior to Student Teaching or Internship
- Pass the California Subject Exam For Teachers (CSET) for the specific subject matter field (see advisor for information regarding the required exams and the timeline for completion of this exam.) Music has the option of an approved subject matter program
- Complete the United States Constitution requirement
- Pass all program requirements which includes maintaining a 2.5 GPA, advancing to Credential Candidacy, and meeting standards on all embedded signature assignments
- Demonstrate competence in relationship to the Teaching Performance Expectations and through the completion of all requirements in edTPA, an approved Teaching Performance Assessment
- Demonstrate competence in professional practice (student teaching/ internship) as assessed by University Supervisor and their cooperating teacher(s) in their student teaching and/or internship placement(s)
- Complete an application for the SB 2042 Single Subject Preliminary Credential at the Office of the Credential Analyst
- Complete CPR Certification Infant, Child and Adult level
Under SB 2042 legislation, the holder of a Single Subject Preliminary Credential must complete requirements for a Clear Credential through a CTC-approved Induction Program provided by a school district or some California colleges or universities.
For more information see Benerd staff in the Hive, Room 111, Gladys L. Benerd Building. Students are required to meet with a program advisor for registration.
The credentials or licenses for teaching in California schools offered by the University include the Multiple Subject Credential, the Single Subject Credential, and the Educational Specialist Credentials, Mild/Moderate Disabilities or Moderate/Severe Disabilities, Preliminary- Level One.
The Single Subject Credential authorizes its holder to teach that subject at any level between kindergarten and grade 12, though it is used typically in grades 7-12. The Multiple Subject Credential authorizes its holder to teach in any classroom in which the students remain with the teacher. The Multiple Subject Credential is required for teaching grades K through 6. Some districts require a Single Subject Credential for teaching one subject field in middle school or junior high school. The Multiple Subject Credential may be used for teaching upper grades in which students remain with the teacher in a self-contained classroom and for adult education.
Students who have earned a baccalaureate degree and who meet admissions criteria have the option to pursue their teaching credentials through a post-baccalaureate credential, MA, or internship programs. Details regarding these options are available at Benerd. Details regarding the MA program are also available in the Graduate Catalog.
Students who seek to earn a credential must complete an approved program of study and take and pass required state examinations. Specific information about the requirements for each program is available at Benerd College.
Graduate Admissions Requirements
General Admissions Requirements (for non certificates)
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better for the last 60 units of college or post-baccalaureate work.
- An appropriate degree from an accredited university (bachelor's for admission to master's programs; master's for admission to educational specialist (EdS) and/or doctoral programs).
- A completed application portfolio to the Graduate Office (gradinfo@pacific.edu), an essay following departmental guidelines; official transcripts from all college-level coursework including official verification of the awarding of degrees; and three letters of recommendation attesting to the candidate’s ability to undertake post-baccalaureate studies.
- Some programs may require the Graduate Records Examination (GRE), or may have other requirements. Please see specific degree and program requirements for information.
- Doctoral programs require an admissions interview. Please see specific programs for information.
- Review by the appropriate department.
- Evidence of qualities and character in keeping with the philosophy and standards of this University and Benerd College.
- Please see specific Certificate programs for information about requirements.
Basic Education Policies
Master of Arts Degree
Graduate students who wish to secure a Master of Arts degree with a major in Education or Leadership must meet the requirements specified for all Master of Arts degrees. Students should consult with the assigned program advisor within the first semester of enrollment to develop a plan of study. Benerd College offers two Master of Arts degree (MA in Education and MA in Leadership) with different concentrations (please refer to the MA program information page).
Educational Specialist in School Psychology Degree
The EdS in School Psychology prepares professionals for systems interventions as school psychologists, and provides advanced training in applied development with diverse populations and consultation methods. For specific information about the EdS in School Psychology, please refer to the EdS program information page.
Doctor of Education Degree
The EdD degree is designed to ensure that each graduate possesses a deep understanding of foundational issues; key theories related to the student’s academic focus; historic and emerging research related to student’s academic focus; critical issues of research, policy, and practice; moral dimensions of research, policy, and practice; leadership challenges and opportunities; and methods and limitations of research. The degree is also designed to ensure that the candidate can identify key issues and problems and engage in focused and systematic research into problems and related questions. Further, the degree is designed to ensure that graduates possess leadership competencies including verbal and written communication skills; professional maturity; personal discipline; and social and emotional intelligence competencies.
Graduate students who wish to secure a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree with a major in Education must meet the requirements specified for all Doctor of Education degrees. Students should consult with the assigned program advisor within the first semester of enrollment to develop a plan of study. Benerd College offers the EdD degree with three possible concentrations: Counseling Psychology, Leadership and Innovation, and Transformative Action in Education. Candidates who seek EdD degrees must also complete a doctoral dissertation and register for a minimum of 2 units in EDUC 399 and continue to enroll in one unit of EDUC 399 each semester until the dissertation is complete. Please refer to the EdD program information page for more information about courses.
Preliminary Teaching Credential requirements
To receive the preliminary teaching credentials in multiple subject, single subject, and special education, students must complete required student teaching or intern teaching experiences. Before starting courses with Pacific, students must have a Certificate of Clearance issued to them from the California Commission of Teacher Credentialing. Before starting either student teaching or interning, graduate students must have a Certificate of Clearance (COC) issued by the California Commission of Teacher Credentialing, CSET, and CBEST passed or waived, Negative TB, fingerprints completed through Pacific, and a credential file completed through Pacific.
- Certificate of Clearance (COC): Fingerprint Clearance via Live Scan and Commission on Teacher Credentialing online application.
- In accordance with California state law and Education code, all teaching credential applicants must go through a background check. All applicants must apply for a Certificate of Clearance (COC) with the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) OR submit proof of prior completion of the same clearance.
- Acceptable documentation in lieu of a Certificate of Clearance: Valid credentials or permits issued by the CTC, including substitute, pre-intern permits, short-term staff permits, clear or preliminary, or Child Development permits. Submit a printout from the CTC website. District or other job-related clearance is not acceptable; however, for student teaching purposes districts may require additional fingerprint clearance.
- Basic Skills Requirement (BSR): Students may pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) to meet this requirement. For more information on the test, go to the CBEST website. Students may also be eligible for a BSR waiver (contact credential.office@PACIFIC.EDU to check eligibility).
- Subject Matter Requirement (SMR): Students may take the appropriate California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) exam to meet this requirement. For more information on the tests, go to the CSET website. Students may also be eligible for a SMR waiver (contact credential.office@PACIFIC.EDU to check eligibility).
Benerd College Faculty
Brittany Auernig-Roan, Assistant Dean; Director of Field Experiences for Teacher Education, Assistant Professor of Practice, 2020, BA, California State University, 2008; MA, California State University, 2011; EdD, Northcentral University, 2020, bauernig@pacific.edu, (209) 946-3915 , Benerd College Room 217
Laura Hallberg, Associate Dean; Academic Chair Pacific Global; Assistant Professor of Educational Innovation and Leadership, 2018, BA, Humboldt State University 1993; MSEd, University of New England, 2009; EdD, University of New England, 2015, lhallberg@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2086, Benerd College Room 114
Justin Low, Associate Professor; Department Chair: Counseling and School Psychology, 2010, BS, Brigham Young University, 2003; MA, The University of Texas at Austin, 2008; PhD, The University of Texas at Austin, 2010, jlow1@pacific.edu, (209) 946-3254, Benerd College Room 101G
Lisa M. Cheney, Director of Field Placements for Counseling & School Psychology; Assistant Professor, 2019, BS, California Polytechnic State University, 2001; MA, University of the Pacific, 2003; EdS, University of the Pacific, 2004, lcheney1@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2104, Benerd College Room 101B
Ruth V. Brittin, Professor of Music Education, 1998, BM, Texas Tech University, 1983; MM Texas Tech University, 1985; PhD, Florida State University, 1989, rbrittin@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2408, Buck Memorial Hall 104
Amy Scott Brown, Associate Professor, 2007, BA, University of California, Berkeley, 2000; MA, Arizona State University, 2002; PhD, Arizona State University, 2006, ascott2@pacific.edu, (209) 946-3276, Benerd College Room 101D
Belkis Choiseul-Praslin, Assistant Professor; Program Lead: Teacher Education, 2021, BA, Florida State University, Tallahassee, 2013; MEd, American University, Washington, DC, 2016, bchoiseulpraslin@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2306, Benerd College Room 212
Rachelle Kisst Hackett, Professor, 1994, AA, Modesto Junior College, 1980; BA California State University, Fresno, 1982; MS, Stanford University, 1986; PhD, Stanford University, 1994, rhackett@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2678, Benerd College Room 115A
Eunie (Yoon Kyung) Jung, Associate Clinical Professor, 2023, BA, University of California, Berkeley, 1996; MA, University of California, Los Angeles, 2003; PhD, University of California, Los Angeles, 2007, ejung@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2197, Benerd College Room 101C
Colin M. McInnis, Instructor; Coordinator of Field Experiences for Teacher Education , 2022, BS, University of the Pacific, 2019; MA, University of the Pacific, 2021, cmcinnis@pacific.edu, (209) 946-6279, Benerd College Room 116
Karen M. Sarafian, Assistant Professor of Practice; Program Lead: Learning, Innovation and Design; Program Lead: Leading for Social Justice, 2022, BS, University of California, Davis, 1988; MA, California State University, Hayward, 1995; EdD University of the Pacific, 2020, ksarafian@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2687
Jonathan S. Toccoli, Assistant Professor of Practice, 2021, BA, Biola University, 2007; MA, Wheaton College, 2009; MA, University of Chicago, 2011; EdD, University of the Pacific, 2021, jtoccoli@pacific.edu, (209) 946-2846, Benerd College Rm 214
