Degree programs
The University of the Pacific was the first university in California whose professional education programs were fully approved by both the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) from bachelor's through doctoral levels, thus permitting its professional education program graduates to be licensed upon request in 38 other states.
Although teacher education is considered to be an all-University responsibility, all professional education degree and credential programs at the University of the Pacific are offered and coordinated through Benerd College. Students in Benerd College are prepared to deliver thoughtful, reflective, caring, and collaborative services to diverse populations. The School directs its efforts toward researching the present and future needs of schools and the community, fostering intellectual and ethical growth, and developing compassion and collegiality through personalized learning experiences.