B.S.Ed. in Elementary Science Education

Overview

The B.S.Ed. in Science Education is designed to provide students with a sophisticated understanding of science content that will prepare them to be excellent elementary or middle-school science teachers. Students will attend specially designed courses that will emphasize science content and still allow some discussion of pedagogical techniques. These natural science courses are offered exclusively to elementary education students.

According to a 2002 National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) report on qualifications of public school teachers, 31% of elementary science teachers and 57% of high-school science teachers in general lack a major or certification in their field. According to RNT's 2000 study of the largest urban school districts, nearly 98% of responding districts noted an immediate demand for science teachers. The need is critical for highly qualified teachers as schools are becoming more accountable to demonstrate learning.