Science Education (Grades 7-12), B.A./B.S.

The B.A./B.S. program in Science Education prepares graduates to rise to the challenge of helping students learn the processes, skills and body of scientific knowledge necessary to excel in the increasingly technological world.

Students get a double major from both the School of Education and the College of Arts & Sciences, providing deep exploration into scientific theory and practice, content instruction, culturally relevant pedagogy, integration of media and technology in the classroom, and standards-based assessments. This program meets the academic requirements for New York State initial teacher certification in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics (Grades 7-12), with the option of either a B.S. or a B.A. degree for all but Earth Science.

Why Science Education at Syracuse?

  • 98% of School of Education graduates are employed or in graduate school within 6 months, and science education students have a 100% pass rate on the New York State edTPA examination.
  • We develop educators committed to equitable, antiracist, and inclusive practices. Graduates are ready to work with the full range of learners in schools, including students with disabilities, students who are not native English speakers, LGBTQ youth, and students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
  • A total of 5 field placements start in your first year, including full-time student teaching experiences as a senior. Your field experiences are supported by faculty and experienced mentor teachers in a diverse range of urban, suburban, and rural settings.
  • Engage in rigorous professional preparation courses with a student cohort that progresses through the program together, providing opportunities to create lifelong colleagues.
  • Take advantage of the modern research facilities, including the state-of-the-art Life Sciences Complex, which houses a confocal microscope and five climate-controlled greenhouses.
  • Syracuse University is the pioneer of experiential learning through SIMs—clinical simulations of common interactions in classroom and school environments to help you identify your strengths and develop your professional skills.
  • Two careers for the price of one – a major in your chosen science area and a major in Science Education gives you a leg up in both fields, preparing you for lesson planning or project management, problem solving in the scientific world or the classroom!
  • Take part in School of Education short-term study abroad trips or semester-long programs around the world.
  • School of Education students are also eligible for exclusive funding to support study abroad experiences.
  • Continue your graduate studies at the School of Education with our SOE 50% Master’s and Certificate of Advanced Study Scholarships.

As a School of Education student, you’ll enjoy small classes, personal advising, and a close-knit community with all the benefits of attending a dynamic research institution. You’ll work closely with our faculty of nationally recognized scholars as you develop your professional identity and portfolio and receive tailored career advising.

Graduates of this program have a strong foundational knowledge of their science subject area and an excellent preparation in inclusive pedagogy. Our graduates are in K-12 school, community, and other settings including:

  • Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics Teachers
  • Teacher leaders, department chairs, or school administrators
  • Scientists, technical writers, or environmental educators
  • Further studies in Science Education, Educational Leadership, Public Administration, or another area of interest

Program Detail

As a student in the Science Education program, you will combine studies in your science content area secondary curriculum, education methods, classroom practicums, and academic requirements from the liberal arts core. You will choose courses to make up a major in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, or Physics as well as liberal arts courses in collaboration with your advisors, allowing you to tailor them to your personal and professional interests.

For Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, there is the option to take either a B.A. (bachelor of arts) or B.S. (bachelor of science) degree. The B.A. option is most common for science education students; the B.S. degree includes additional lab science coursework. The Earth Science program is a B.A. degree. Dual certification in two science areas is possible, but needs to be closely planned with your advisor starting before your first semester.

Sample courses in your program may include:

  • Adapting Instruction for Diverse Student Needs
  • Methods and Curriculum in Teaching Science
  • Assessment and Data-Driven Instruction
  • Introduction to Physical Chemistry
  • Principles of Learning in Inclusive Classrooms
  • Cell Biology

Your first semester will include writing, calculus, biology, and chemistry. More information on academic requirements available in the Syracuse University Course Catalog for:

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