COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Education degree in Earth Science for grades 7-12 is designed to prepare students to become licensed secondary Earth Science teachers with a strong foundation in both scientific content and pedagogical practice. The program begins with rigorous content courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of natural processes, physical principles, and the diversity of life on Earth. Courses such as Biological Diversity, General Chemistry, General Physics, How the Earth Works, and Earth Materials I and II give students both theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience. Students also study meteorology, oceanography, geomorphology, conservation, and astronomy to broaden their understanding of Earth system processes. Many courses include laboratory components or field experiences to provide practical, experiential learning that mirrors real-world scientific investigation.After completing foundational content courses, students move into specialized education coursework and methods designed for secondary teaching. These courses include Principles of Teaching Adolescents, Teaching Science in Secondary Schools, Topics in Secondary School Science Teaching, and Field Work Practicum. Students gain practical classroom experience through supervised fieldwork and culminate their training with nine weeks of full-time student teaching, where they apply pedagogical strategies, develop lesson plans, and manage classrooms in real secondary school settings.Additional courses in educational psychology, reading and writing in adolescence, special education, and social justice in teaching provide students with essential skills to address diverse learning needs and foster inclusive classroom environments. Courses in mathematics and core liberal arts ensure students meet state licensure requirements and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.Careful sequencing of content and education courses is critical, so students are advised to plan closely with an academic advisor to ensure successful progression toward licensure. Graduates are eligible for Ohio teacher licensure for grades 7-12 in Earth Science, fully prepared to teach students across a broad spectrum of scientific topics while promoting inquiry-based learning and critical thinking in the classroom. The program effectively integrates scientific expertise with pedagogical practice to develop highly qualified Earth Science educators.