Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Education in Earth and Space Science is a professional degree program specifically designed to prepare certified secondary school teachers with an overall science exposure and specialization in the earth and space sciences. The program meets all guidelines established by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), and the National Science Teachers' Association (NSTA) for earth and space sciences certification. Middle and secondary school teachers help students delve more deeply into subjects introduced in elementary school and expose them to more information about the world. Additional responsibilities of middle and secondary school teachers may include career guidance and job placement, as well as follow-ups with students after graduation. In addition to conducting classroom activities, teachers oversee study halls and homerooms, supervise extracurricular activities, and accompany students on field trips. They may identify students with physical or mental problems and refer the students to the proper authorities. Secondary school teachers occasionally assist students in choosing courses, colleges, and careers. Teachers also participate in education conferences and workshops.
Program Highlights
- PA Earth and Space Science (ESS) certification after four (4) years of both geoscience and education-related coursework
- Student teaching experience the final semester
- Courses that build career skills: problem-solving, cooperative teamwork, field work, data analysis, written/oral communication, and cutting-edge training on scientific instruments
- Flexible curriculum with opportunities for independent study research or internships for credit
- A faculty of nationally-known scholars
- A large alumni network of professional geologists and teachers in the Philadelphia Region
- An Earth and Space Science Club, SGE (The Geology Honors Society), plus participation in the Women in Science and Astronomy Clubs
- Graduate assistantships (GAs), scholarships, travel and research grants available each semester!
What can I do with this degree?
High school earth and space science teacher
Middle school earth and space science teacher
Secondary school earth and space science teacher