COURSE CURRICULUM

The Middle Level Education program with a Science concentration prepares students to teach grades 4–9 by providing a strong foundation in both education and content knowledge. The concentration emphasizes scientific literacy and inquiry-based learning, ensuring future teachers can effectively engage students in understanding the natural world. Required science coursework totals 22–24 credit hours and includes foundational courses such as Natural Science: Biology or Principles of Biology I, Chemistry for Everyone, and Introductory Physical Geology. Students also study specialized topics like Earth’s Atmosphere & Weather and participate in hands-on, experiential learning through Field/Lab Studies in Environmental Science or Geology and Environmental Science Service Learning. Physics is addressed through Descriptive Astronomy, College Physics I, or Everyday Physics, giving students a broad understanding of physical principles relevant to middle school curricula. This concentration, combined with the program’s general and professional education requirements, equips students with the pedagogical skills and scientific knowledge necessary to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving in middle-level learners. Students gain practical classroom experience and field-based learning opportunities to apply theoretical concepts, preparing them for licensure and successful careers as science educators who can inspire young learners in both life and physical sciences.