Credential Types and Subject Areas: A Brief Glossary of Terms

Please review this brief glossary of terms to insure you understand which credential you are applying for and can select the correct information.  Failure to select the correct credential or subject area may delay your application or cause your application to be denied. 

Instructional I = New/first time teachers registering for credentials in the state of Pennsylvania.  Most students who recently completed their Teacher Preparation Program at Temple University will be applying for this credential.

Instructional II = After you have completed all requirements as specified by PDE, you may apply to have your Level I certification converted to a Level II certification.  It is the responsibility of each certificate holder to obtain the Level II certificate before the service life of the Level I expires. This credential is not approved/issued by Temple University. Attainment of an Instructional II is strictly between the applicant and PDE.  

Instructional Add-on = Applicants who already hold an Instructional I credential may add-on additional subject areas by meeting the additional requirements specified by PDE.  A separate application and fee must be submitted via TIMS for each add-on subject area. 

Certification Subject Area = Temple strongly suggests that applicants review the PDE booklet "Professional Educator Certification: Level I Certification for Pennsylvania Graduates" (PDE >> Certifications >> Applications & Forms) to see the complete list of Certification Subject Area codes prior to completing their TIMS application.   Failure to select the correct credential or subject area may delay your application or cause your application to be denied.