COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Science Preparation for Teaching at San José State University is a 120-unit program designed to prepare students for careers as middle school and high school social science teachers in subjects such as history, political science, economics, and ethnic studies. The degree provides a structured pathway that integrates general education, interdisciplinary social science coursework, and specialized teacher preparation classes. Students complete foundational lower-division courses in world history, U.S. history and government, and a history fundamentals course, along with a required sequence in U.S.-focused ethnic studies pathways such as African American, Asian American, or Chicana and Chicano history, or standard U.S. history and government options. Upper-division coursework builds advanced knowledge in education-focused subjects, including teaching in diverse societies, California history for teachers, U.S. history for teachers, world history for teachers, American government for teachers, and sociology of education. The program also includes specialized training in educational methods, economic analysis for teachers, and a social science teacher preparation capstone, along with a required history writing workshop to strengthen academic writing skills. A significant portion of the degree is dedicated to approved upper-division U.S. history electives, ensuring depth of content knowledge in the discipline. Students are required to maintain strong academic performance and are guided through structured program roadmaps to ensure proper sequencing of courses and completion of prerequisites. While completion of the program qualifies students for a waiver of the CSET Social Science subject matter exam required for California teaching credentials, it does not guarantee admission into a credential program, as students must still meet additional requirements and pass screening processes. University electives provide additional flexibility, and students are encouraged to pursue related coursework or minors in history to further strengthen their academic preparation. Overall, the program combines deep disciplinary knowledge with pedagogical preparation to train future social science educators.