Major: Science Teacher Education
Physicist Richard Feynman, who died in 1988, is famous for his contributions to science and society. For example, he single-handedly figured out that the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster of 1986 was caused by faulty equipment (not by human error, as others had thought). But scientific discoveries aren't all Feynman is known for. He's also remembered for playing bongo drums, drawing great portraits, and being a hilariously funny, quirky teacher who encouraged students to think for themselves.
If you love science and want, like Feynman, to inspire others to be independent thinkers, you might enjoy a career as a science teacher.
This major prepares students to teach general science or a combination of biological and physical science at various grade levels.
Did You Know?
- Shannon Lucid, biologist-turned-astronaut, has logged more time in space than any other woman to date: 223 days over the course of 5 missions.
Are You Ready To...?
- Conduct lab experiments
- Do outdoor field studies
- Read scientific documents
- Practice teaching in front of your peers
- Become a student member of the National Science Teachers Association
- Join a science honorary society such as Sigma Xi
It Helps to Be...
Comfortable with technology and hands-on learning -- science education these days uses a lot of both. You'll be helping students use computers to do research and interactive science lessons, and you'll be leading activities that range from lab experiments to nature field trips.
College Checklist
- Is the program fully accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the state board of education?
- Will you be required to focus on specific subject areas within science, such as physics, or will you be prepared to teach general science?
- What grades will you be certified to teach?
- What GPA do you need in order to be certified?
- Will your teaching certificate enable you to teach in other states?
- Will the program help you find work after graduation?
Did You Know?
- Science teachers are in demand across the country.
Course Spotlight
Your program will give you many chances to visit science classrooms. You'll absorb valuable tips that will help you answer questions such as these: How do I teach meaningful lessons between one bell and the next? How do I provide exciting hands-on learning activities without creating utter chaos? How do I keep track of student progress?
These visits will prepare you for your own ultimate hands-on learning activity: the semester you spend student teaching.
