COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Education (BAED) in Earth and Space Science (Secondary Education) requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and prepares students for licensure as secondary science teachers for grades 6–12. Students must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 and a 2.50 GPA in major content coursework while completing the requirements of the WSU General Education Program and the College of Education. The program provides an interdisciplinary science foundation through coursework in chemistry, geology, environmental science, meteorology, astronomy, physics, and biology. Required science courses include General Chemistry I and II, Earth Science and the Environment with laboratory, Introduction to Environment and Sustainability, Meteorology, Earth and Space Sciences, Historical Geology, Introductory Physics, Introduction to Modern Astronomy, Solar System Astronomy, and General Biology I. These courses develop a broad understanding of Earth systems, environmental processes, physical sciences, and astronomical concepts essential for teaching secondary science. In addition to science content, students complete professional education coursework that includes Introduction to the Education Profession, Human Growth and Development, educational assessment, diversity, exceptionalities, literacy strategies, educational philosophy, ethics, and technology integration. The teacher education sequence is organized into four progressive stages known as Core I through Core IV, combining classroom instruction with field experiences and supervised teaching practice. Students must earn a grade of B- or higher in all teacher education courses. The program includes practicum experiences, science-specific instructional methods courses, and two teaching internships that provide extensive classroom experience in secondary science education. During the final semester, students complete a full student-teaching internship in a secondary science classroom under professional supervision. To qualify for teacher licensure, candidates must successfully complete the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) examination, the Praxis II Science Content Knowledge Test, and the Teacher Licensure Capstone course. Graduates are prepared to teach earth science, environmental science, astronomy, geology, and general science courses in middle and high schools. Through the support of the College of Education and Wichita State University, students gain strong scientific knowledge, teaching expertise, and extensive classroom experience needed for successful careers in secondary science education.