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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.

Why Science Education at Syracuse?

  • 98% of School of Education graduates are employed or in graduate school within 6 months, and mathematics education students have a 100% pass rate on the New York State edTPA examination.
  • Participate in EDU Sims, which are standardized simulations of common interactions in classroom and school environments to help you identify your strengths and develop your professional skills.
  • A total of 5 field placements in diverse settings starting in your first year, including 2 student teaching experiences in your senior year.
  • Two jobs 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 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.
  • Science education students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in one of over 60 countries and take part in School of Education short-term study abroad programs. Through the Himan Brown Fellowship, 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.

Because you will be a student in two different schools within Syracuse University, you will receive advising support, career services, and one-on-one mentoring from both the School of Education and the College of Arts & Sciences. You’ll work closely with our faculty of nationally recognized scholars, mathematics experts, and researchers in as you develop your professional identity and portfolio—including working with students with diverse cultures, diverse learning needs, and in diverse settings.

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

There are two options for this program: a B.S. (bachelor of science) or B.A. (bachelor of arts) degree. The B.A. option is most common for science education students; the B.S. degree includes additional lab science coursework.

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. Dual certification in two science areas is possible, but needs to be closely planned with your advisor starting before your first semester. The science content included will depend on the science subject area, and whether you choose the B.S. or B.A. degree. 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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