At which campus can I study this program?
Program Description
The following teaching options are available for majors in Secondary Education: Biological Science, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, English, Environmental Education, General Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Social Studies/Citizenship Education.
The Secondary Education major helps prepare students for middle school and/or high school teaching positions and for other employment in fields related to their content specialties.
Biological Science Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Chemistry Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Earth and Space Science Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
English Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. A comparable program is also open to student outside the College of Education who desire certification.
Environmental Education Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for a Pennsylvania teacher certification in Environmental Education when completed in conjunction with another secondary education teaching option (i.e., Biological Science Teaching option). The total number of credits required will depend primarily on that other option.
General Science Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching General Science at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. This option may only be completed in conjunction with another secondary education option (e.g., Biology); the total number of credits required will depend primarily on that other option.
Mathematics Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: Erie, University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Physics Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Social Studies Teaching Option
Available at the following campuses: University Park
This option enables the graduate to meet all of the academic requirements for the Instructional I certificate for teaching social studies at the secondary-school level, which is issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
What is Secondary Education?
The Secondary Education (SECED) major prepares graduates to teach at the middle school or high school level (grades 7-12) in English, Mathematics, Social Studies (which includes history, geography, government, and the social sciences), or a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Space Science, or Physics). The program combines on-campus course work with clinical experiences in schools; graduates are eligible to apply for teacher licensure through the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
You Might Like This Program If...
- You are committed to public service and working with young people, and you appreciate that effective teaching demands both mastery of subject matter knowledge and understanding learners and communities.
- In your subject-matter studies, you tend to find yourself asking: How do we know that? Is there a better way to describe it? What are we overlooking? How could I help others understand this too?
Entrance to Major
Baccalaureate degree candidates must meet the following requirements 1-3 by the end of their third semester:
- A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00
- Documentation of at least 80 hours of volunteer or paid education work experience with learners of the age group the candidate plans to teach. Candidates for Secondary Education must document 40 of these hours with learners who come from backgrounds that are different from the candidate's.
Requirements 4-9 must be met by the end of the fourth semester when students typically participate in the Entrance-to-Major process.
- A grade of "C" or better in all specified courses.
- Completion of an early field experience specified by the certification program.
- Completion of a core of Education courses specified by the certification program.
- Completion of additional credits as specified by the certification program.
- Completion of at least 48 semester credit hours, including ENGL 15 or ENGL 30H, three credits of literature, and six credits of quantification
- Approval from the professional education adviser or the head of the pertinent certification program.
Degree Requirements
For the B.S. degree in Secondary Education with an option in Biological Science Teaching, a minimum of 126 credits is required; with an option in Chemistry Teaching, a minimum of 126 credits is required; with an option in Earth and Space Science Teaching, a minimum of 123 credits is required; with an option in English Teaching, a minimum of 126 credits is required; with an option in Environmental Education Teaching and a cohort option, a minimum of 123 credits is required; with an option in General Science Teaching and a cohort option, a minimum of 121 credits is required; with an option in Mathematics Teaching, a minimum of 132 credits is required; with an option in Physics Teaching, a minimum of 121 credits is required; with an option in Social Studies Teaching, a minimum of 129-132 credits is required. (See also Teacher Education Programs):
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| General Education | 45 |
| Electives | 0-20 |
| Requirements for the Major | 83-111 |
12-27 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: Biological Science Teaching option, Chemistry Teaching option, Earth and Space Science Teaching option, Environmental Education Teaching option, General Science Teaching option, and Physics Teaching option--6 credits of GH courses; 9 credits of GN courses, 6 credits of GS courses; 6 credits of GQ courses. English Teaching option--0-6 credits of GA courses; 6 credits of GH courses; 6 credits of GS courses, 0-3 credits of GWS. Mathematics Teaching option--6 credits of GH courses; 6 credits of GS courses; 6 credits of GQ courses. Social Studies Teaching option--6 credits of GH courses; 3 credits of GN courses; 6 credits of GS courses. Six of these credits for any option may also satisfy the Integrative Studies requirement.
Requirements for the Major
A grade of C or better per course is required for teacher certification.
Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| CI 280 | Introduction to Teaching English Language Learners  | 3 |
| CI 295 | Introductory Field Experience for Teacher Preparation | 2 |
| CI 495C | Clinical Application of Instruction -- Secondary Education | 3 |
| CI 495E | Practicum in Student Teaching--Secondary Education | 15 |
| EDPSY 14 | Learning and Instruction | 3 |
| PSYCH 100 | Introductory Psychology | 3 |
| SPLED 400 | Inclusive Special Ed Foundations: Legal, Characteristics, Collaboration, Assessment, and Management | 4 |
| SPLED 403B | Evidence-Based Methods for Teaching Secondary Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| PSYCH 412 | Adolescence | 3 |
| or HDFS 239 | Adolescent Development | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 3 credits of GH courses from Literature Selection | 3 | |
| Select 3 credits of the following: | 3 | |
| Education in American Society | ||
| Competing Rights: Issues in American Education | ||
3 credits at the 400 level of any EDTHP course | ||
| Requirements for the Option | ||
| Requirements for the Option: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select an option | 38-66 | |
Requirements for the Option
Biological Science Teaching Option (63-66 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| BIOL 220W | Biology: Populations and Communities | 4 |
| BIOL 240W | Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BMB 251 & BMB 252 | Molecular and Cell Biology I and Molecular and Cell Biology II | 4-6 |
| or BIOL 230W | Biology: Molecules and Cells | |
| MATH 141 or 4 credits of 200-level STAT GQ courses | 4 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Introductory Biological Anthropology | ||
| Human Genetics | ||
| Evolution | ||
| Geobiology | ||
| Paleontology and Fossils | ||
| Select one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II | ||
| Select 6 credits of the following: | 6 | |
| Elementary Biochemistry | ||
| Elementary Biochemistry Laboratory | ||
| General Biochemistry | ||
| General Biochemistry | ||
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry I | ||
| Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 8 credits of 300-level or 400-level BIOL or biological fields | 8 | |
Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
Chemistry Teaching Option (55-60 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| PHYS 211 | General Physics: Mechanics | 4 |
| PHYS 212 | General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | 4 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select one of the following: | 6-8 | |
| Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry I and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry II | ||
| Organic Chemistry I and Organic Chemistry II and Laboratory in Organic Chemistry | ||
| Select 9 credits from 400 level CHEM or related field | 9 | |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 6-9 credits in CHEM or chemistry-related fields at the 200 level or higher (e.g., BMB 211 and BMB 212, BMB 251, BMB 252, MICRB 251, FDSC 400, ANSC 301, NUTR 251, CHEM, CHE) | 6-9 | |
Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
Earth and Space Science Teaching Option (60-63 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| ASTRO 10 | Elementary Astronomy | 2 |
| ASTRO 11 | Elementary Astronomy Laboratory | 1 |
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| BIOL 220W | Biology: Populations and Communities | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| EARTH 100 | Environment Earth | 3 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| GEOSC 1 | Physical Geology | 3 |
| or GEOSC 20 | Planet Earth | |
| GEOSC 21 | Earth and Life: Origin and Evolution | 3-4 |
| or GEOSC 204 | Geobiology | |
| Select one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Weather Revealed: Introductory Meteorology | ||
| Introduction to Weather Analysis | ||
| Fundamentals of Atmospheric Science | ||
| Select 3-4 credits from the following: | 3-4 | |
| Ecology of Lakes and Streams | ||
| Coastal Biology | ||
| The Sea Around Us | ||
| Marine Geology | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 8 credits of 200-400 level from EARTH, GEOSC, METEO, ASTRO, other earth science field, or BIOL 427 | 8 | |
Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
English Teaching Option (40-42 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
Note: Must complete at least 3 credits of IL and 3 credits of US Cultures selections.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| CI 492 | Identities, Power and Perceptual Pedagogies in Teaching and Learning | 3 |
| LLED 411 | Teaching Language Arts In Secondary Schools I | 3 |
| LLED 412W | Teaching Language Arts in Secondary Schools II | 3 |
| LLED 420 | Teaching Adolescent Literature and Literacy | 3 |
| LLED 421 | Teaching Writing in Secondary Schools | 3 |
| LLED 422 | Teaching the Young Adult Literature Workshop | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 1-3 credits of Grammar from the following: | 1-3 | |
| Discourse-Functional Grammar | ||
| Basic News Writing Skills | ||
| Select 3 credits of Speech and Oral Performance from the following: | 3 | |
| Effective Speech | ||
| Storytelling and Speaking | ||
| Fundamentals of Acting | ||
| Select 3 credits of Shakespeare from the following: | 3 | |
| Shakespeare | ||
| Taking Shakespeare From Page to Stage | ||
| Studies in Shakespeare | ||
| Shakespeare | ||
| Select 6 credits of British and American Literature from the following: | 6 | |
| British Literature to 1798 | ||
| British Literature from 1798 | ||
| American Literature to 1865 | ||
| American Literature from 1865 | ||
| Select 3 credits of Multicultural Literature in English from the following: | 3 | |
| Latina/o Literature and Culture | ||
| Alternative Voices in American Literature | ||
| African American Literature | ||
| Women Writers | ||
| Asian American Literatures | ||
| Black American Writers | ||
| Reading Black, Reading Feminist | ||
| African American Novel I | ||
| African American Novel II | ||
| African American Poetry | ||
| Women Writers and Their Worlds | ||
| American Women Writers | ||
| Select 3 credits of Nonprint Literature from the following: | 3 | |
| From Folk Shouts and Songs to Hip Hop Poetry | ||
| World Graphic Novels | ||
| The Art of the Cinema | ||
| Film History and Theory | ||
| Cultural Aspects of the Mass Media | ||
| The Graphic Novel | ||
| The Art of the Theatre | ||
| Introduction to Theatre | ||
| Select 3 credits of Writing from the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Creative Writing | ||
| Introduction to Fiction Writing | ||
| Introduction to Poetry Writing | ||
| Introduction to Creative Nonfiction Writing | ||
| Introduction to General Nonfiction Writing | ||
Environmental Education Teaching Option (55-58 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| BIOL 220W | Biology: Populations and Communities | 4 |
| CHEM 101 | Introductory Chemistry | 3 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| SCIED 457 | 3 | |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select one of the following: | 4 | |
| Environmental Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry Laboratory | ||
| Chemical Principles I and Experimental Chemistry I | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3-4 | |
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Ornithology | ||
| Mammalogy | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select two courses (6-8 credits) in environmental law, economics, management and policy (e.g., ECON 428, ERM 411, ERM 412, ERM 413W, WFS 410, WFS 447W, WFS 463W) | 6-8 | |
| Select 4 credits of an environmentally related course in Science Technology and Society (e.g., STS 100, STS 460) | 4 | |
| Select at least 14 credits from the cohort Teaching option 1 | 14 | |
- 1
This option may only be completed in conjunction with another secondary teaching option, such as the Biological Science Teaching option.
Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
General Science Teaching Option (38 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| MATH 141 or 4 credits of 200-level STAT GQ courses | 4 | |
| Select one of the following: | 4 | |
| Biology: Populations and Communities | ||
| Biology: Molecules and Cells | ||
| Biology: Function and Development of Organisms | ||
| Select one of the following: | 8 | |
| General Physics: Mechanics and General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | ||
| Introductory Physics I and Introductory Physics II | ||
Note 1: This option may only be completed in conjunction with another secondary teaching option, such as Biology.
Note 2: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 3: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
Mathematics Teaching Option (57-59 credits)
Available at the following campuses: Erie, University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| MATH 220 | Matrices | 2-3 |
| MATH 310 | Elementary Combinatorics | 3 |
| MATH 311W | Concepts of Discrete Mathematics | 3-4 |
| MATH 312 | Concepts of Real Analysis | 3 |
| MATH 414 | Introduction to Probability Theory | 3 |
| MATH 471 | Geometry for Teachers | 4 |
| MTHED 411 | Teaching Secondary Mathematics I | 3 |
| MTHED 412W | Teaching Secondary Mathematics II | 3 |
| MTHED 427 | Teaching Mathematics in Technology-Intensive Environments | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| CMPSC 101 | Introduction to Programming | 3 |
| or CMPSC 121 | Introduction to Programming Techniques | |
| MATH 231 & MATH 232 | Calculus of Several Variables and Integral Vector Calculus | 4 |
| or MATH 230 | Calculus and Vector Analysis | |
| MATH 435 | Basic Abstract Algebra | 3 |
| or MATH 470 | Algebra for Teachers | |
| MATH 436 | Linear Algebra | 3 |
| or MATH 441 | Matrix Algebra | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Mathematical Statistics | ||
| Experimental Methods | ||
3 credits of MTHED from program list | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 6 credits from 400-level MATH or MTHED courses | 6 | |
Physics Teaching Option (55-62 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| BIOL 110 | Biology: Basic Concepts and Biodiversity | 4 |
| CHEM 110 | Chemical Principles I | 3 |
| CHEM 111 | Experimental Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 112 | Chemical Principles II | 3 |
| CHEM 113 | Experimental Chemistry II | 1 |
| MATH 140 | Calculus With Analytic Geometry I | 4 |
| MATH 141 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 4 |
| MATH 220 | Matrices | 2-3 |
| PHYS 211 | General Physics: Mechanics | 4 |
| PHYS 212 | General Physics: Electricity and Magnetism | 4 |
| PHYS 213 | General Physics: Fluids and Thermal Physics | 2 |
| PHYS 214 | General Physics: Wave Motion and Quantum Physics | 2 |
| PHYS 237 | Introduction to Modern Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 400 | Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism | 3 |
| PHYS 419 | Theoretical Mechanics | 3 |
| SCIED 411W | Teaching Secondary Science I | 3 |
| SCIED 412 | Teaching Secondary Science II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| MATH 230 | Calculus and Vector Analysis | 2-4 |
| or MATH 231 | Calculus of Several Variables | |
| MATH 250 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 3-4 |
| or MATH 251 | Ordinary and Partial Differential Equations | |
| Select one of the following: | 1-4 | |
| Electronics for Scientists | ||
PHYS 457 | ||
| Intermediate Optics | ||
Note 1: Students may complete multiple science teaching options concurrently by completing all of each option's requirements. The six science teaching options are: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, General Science, and Physics.
Note 2: Red Cross certification in First Aid and CPR (or their equivalent) must be earned for science certification.
Social Studies Teaching Option (57 credits)
Available at the following campuses: University Park
A grade of C or better per course is required for teacher certification.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| ECON 104 | Introductory Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy | 3 |
| GEOG 30N | Environment and Society in a Changing World | 3 |
| HIST 20 | American Civilization to 1877 | 3 |
| HIST 21 | American Civilization Since 1877 | 3 |
| PLSC 1 | American Politics: Principles, Processes and Powers | 3 |
| SSED 411 | Teaching Secondary Social Studies I | 3 |
| SSED 412W | Teaching Secondary Social Studies II | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| HIST 1 | Western Civilization I | 3 |
| or HIST 10 | World History to 1500 | |
| HIST 2 | Western Civilization II | 3 |
| or HIST 11 | World History since 1500 | |
| Select 9 credits of the following: | 9 | |
| Cultural Diversity: A Global Perspective | ||
| Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy | ||
| Maps and the Geospatial Revolution | ||
| Comparing Politics around the Globe | ||
| International Relations | ||
| Introductory Sociology | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better for teacher certification | ||
| Select 6 credits of 400-level History | 6 | |
| Select one concentration: | 15 | |
Citizenship Education | ||
Select 6 credits of History at the 100-level or above | ||
Select 3 credits of the following: | ||
| Cultural Diversity: A Global Perspective | ||
| Introductory Sociology | ||
Select 3 credits of the following: | ||
| Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy | ||
| Comparing Politics around the Globe | ||
| International Relations | ||
Select 3 credits of the following: | ||
| Maps and the Geospatial Revolution | ||
| Physical Geography: An Introduction | ||
| Human Geography: An Introduction | ||
Civics and Government | ||
| Comparing Politics around the Globe | ||
| International Relations | ||
Select 3 credits of the following: | ||
| Contemporary Political Ideologies | ||
| Scientific Study of Politics | ||
| Introduction to Political Theory | ||
Select 6 credits of 400-level Political Science | ||
Classics and Ancient Studies | ||
Select 3 credits from the following: | ||
| Greek and Roman Literature | ||
| Jewish and Christian Foundations | ||
| Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations | ||
Select 3 credits of 100-level Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies | ||
Select 3 credits of Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies below the 400 level | ||
Select 6 credits of 400-level Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies | ||
Economics | ||
| Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy | ||
| Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis | ||
| Intermediate Macroeconomic Analysis | ||
Select 6 credits of 400-level Economics | ||
Geography | ||
Select 9 credits of Geography below the 400 level | ||
Select 6 credits of 400-level Geography | ||
Holocaust and Genocide Studies | ||
| History of the Holocaust 1933-1945 | ||
Select 6 credits from the following: | ||
| The Holocaust in Film and Literature | ||
| History of Fascism and Nazism | ||
| Genocide in Global perspectives: Twentieth Century and beyond | ||
Select 6 credits from the following: | ||
| Holocaust | ||
| Women and the Holocaust | ||
| Genocide and Tyranny | ||
| Hiroshima & the Holocaust in History and Memory | ||
| Ethics After the Holocaust | ||
Social Sciences | ||
Select 9 credits of Anthropology, Psychology, and/or Sociology below the 400 level | ||
Select 6 credits of 400-level Anthropology, Psychology, and/or Sociology | ||
Note 1: Courses taken to meet Additional Courses and other Supporting Courses and Related Areas requirements cannot also be applied to the concentration. Different courses need to be selected for the concentration and Additional Courses and other Supporting Courses and Related Areas requirements.
General Education
Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.
The keystone symbol appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.
Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits
Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
Integrative Studies
- Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits
Exploration
- GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
- GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits
University Degree Requirements
First Year Engagement
All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.
Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.
First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.
Cultures Requirement
6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements
- United States Cultures: 3 credits
- International Cultures: 3 credits
Writing Across the Curriculum
3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.
Total Minimum Credits
A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.
Quality of Work
Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.
Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition
The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.
Academic Advising
The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.
Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.
READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY
University Park
College of Education
Advising and Certification Center
228 Chambers Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-0488
ed@admissions.psu.edu
Erie
Pat Kelly
Lecturer in Math Education
16 Prischak
Erie, PA 16563
814-898-6308
pmk91@psu.edu
Suggested Academic Plan
The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2023-24 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contains suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).
Biology Teaching Option: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15*‡# | 3 | CHEM 110*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140 or 140B*‡# | 4 | CHEM 111*#† | 1 |
| BIOL 110*#† | 4 | MATH 141, 141B, or STAT 200*‡ | 4 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | EDPSY 14*# | 3 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | Health and Wellness* | 1.5 |
| EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP)* | 3 | BIOL 220W*# | 4 |
| 18 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 230W or BMB 251 and BMB 252* | 4 | CI 280*† | 3 |
| CAS 100A‡ | 3 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412*† | 3 |
| CHEM 112*#† | 3 | BIOL 240W* | 4 |
| CHEM 113*# | 1 | PHYS 250 or 211*# | 4 |
| Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 | Health and Wellness* | 1.5 |
| CI 295*# | 2 | ||
| 16 | 15.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | SCIED 411W* | 3 |
| PHYS 251 or 212* | 4 | BIOL 300-400 Level Selection* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| BIOL 427, ANTH 21, ANTH 460, GEOSC 204, or GEOSC 424* | 3-4 | BMB 211/212, 401, 402, CHEM 202, CHEM 203, CHEM 210, CHEM 212, or CHEM 213*2 | 3 |
| BMB 211/212, 401, 402, CHEM 202, CHEM 203, CHEM 210, CHEM 212, or CHEM 213*2 | 3 | ||
| 17-18 | 12 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SCIED 412* | 3 | CI 495E*3 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| Arts Selection | 3 | ||
| GH, GA, GS, GHW, or Interdomain* | 3 | ||
| BIOL 300-400 Level Selection* | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 125-126 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
BMB 211 is related to and a prerequisite for the companion laboratory course BMB 212 (1 credit).
- 3
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Additional Notes:
- Must complete at least 3 cr. of United States (US) and 3 cr. of International Cultures (IL).
- W is the code used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
- First Aid and CPR certification required. (on-line courses not acceptable)
- Summer study could reduce some of the credit loads above.
- Effective Fall 2012, all incoming Schreyer Honors College freshmen at University Park will take ENGL/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry GWS designation and replace both ENGL 030 and CAS 100. Each course is 3 credits. At the discretion of the college, ENGL/CAS 138T satisfies the first-year seminar requirement.
-
Academic Advising Notes: The course series listed above is only one of many possible ways to move through this curriculum. Please be sure to also use the curriculum checksheets and degree audits, as well as consult with an adviser about appropriate scheduling sequences, clearances for field experiences and testing requirements. Advisers also can assist students in identifying coursework offered at Penn State in the SUMMER.
Chemistry Teaching Option: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15‡# | 3 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140*#† | 4 | CHEM 113*#† | 1 |
| CHEM 110 & CHEM 111*#† | 4 | MATH 141*#† | 4 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | EDPSY 14*# | 3 |
| EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP) | 3 | Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 |
| 15 | 14 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| BIOL 110*#† | 4 | CI 280* | 3 |
| PHYS 211*#† | 4 | PHYS 212*#† | 4 |
| CI 295*# | 2 | CHEM 212 and CHEM 213 or or CHEM 202 and CHEM 203*# | 5 |
| CHEM 210*# | 3 | Related 200 Level Selection* | 3 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | Art Selection* | 3 |
| 16 | 18 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | SCIED 411W* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B | 3 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412*† | 3 |
| Related 200-level Selection* | 3 | CHEM 400 Level Selection*2 | 3 |
| Related 200-level Selection* | 3 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| CAS 100A‡ | 3 | ||
| 16 | 12 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SCIED 412* | 3 | CI 495E*3 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| CHEM 400 Level Selection*2 | 3 | ||
| GA, GH, GS, or GHW Interdomain* | 3 | ||
| Health and Wellness (GHW)* | 1.5 | ||
| 13.5 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 119.5 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
CHEM 402, CHEM 406, CHEM 408, CHEM 410, CHEM 412, CHEM 423W, CHEM 425W, or CHE 301 or CHE 435.
- 3
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Additional Notes:
- Must complete at least 3 cr. of United States (US) and 3 cr. of International Cultures (IL).
- W is the code used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
- First Aid and CPR certification required. (on-line courses not acceptable)
- Summer study could reduce some of the credit loads above.
- Effective Fall 2012, all incoming Schreyer Honors College freshmen at University Park will take ENGL/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry GWS designation and replace both ENGL 030 and CAS 100. Each course is 3 credits. At the discretion of the college, ENGL/CAS 138T satisfies the first-year seminar requirement.
-
Academic Advising Notes: The course series listed above is only one of many possible ways to move through this curriculum. Please be sure to also use the curriculum checksheets and degree audits, as well as consult with an adviser about appropriate scheduling sequences, clearances for field experiences and testing requirements. Advisers also can assist students in identifying coursework offered at Penn State in the SUMMER.earth and space teaching option at University Park Campus and commonwealth campuses.
Earth and Space Teaching Option: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15‡# | 3 | BIOL 220W*# | 4 |
| MATH 140 or 140B‡#† | 4 | CHEM 111*#† | 1 |
| BIOL 110*#† | 4 | MATH 141, 141B, or STAT 200* | 4 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | EDPSY 14*# | 3 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | Health and Wellness | 1.5 |
| EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP)* | 3 | EARTH 100* | 3 |
| 18 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| GEOSC 1 or 20* | 3 | CI 280* | 3 |
| CAS 100A‡ | 3 | PHYS 250 or 211*#† | 4 |
| CI 295*# | 2 | Interdomain General Education* | 3 |
| CHEM 110*#† | 3 | Health and Wellness* | 1.5 |
| Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 | METEO 3, 201, or 300*† | 3-4 |
| 14 | 14.5-15.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| PHYS 251 or 212* | 4 | SCIED 411W* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| GEOSC 40, 440, BIOL 435, or BIOL 482*† | 3-4 | GEOSC 21 or 204*† | 3-4 |
| ASTRO 10 or 11* | 1-2 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412* | 3 |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | BIOL 427 (or 200 -400 Level Selection (EARTH, GEOSC, METEO, ASTRO, PHYS, ANTH) )* | 3 |
| 15-17 | 15-16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SCIED 412* | 4 | CI 495E*2 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| Arts Selection | 3 | ||
| BIOL 427 (or 200 -400 Level Selection (EARTH, GEOSC, METEO, ASTRO, PHYS, ANTH) )* | 3 | ||
| BIOL 427 (or 200 -400 Level Selection (EARTH, GEOSC, METEO, ASTRO, PHYS, ANTH) )*† | 3 | ||
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 124-128 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Additional Notes:
- Must complete at least 3 cr. of United States (US) and 3 cr. of International Cultures (IL).
- First Aid and CPR certification required. (on-line courses not acceptable)
- Summer study could reduce some of the credit loads above.
-
Academic Advising Notes: The course series listed above is only one of many possible ways to move through this curriculum. Please be sure to also use the curriculum checksheets and degree audits, as well as consult with an adviser about appropriate scheduling sequences, clearances for field experiences and testing requirements. Advisers also can assist students in identifying coursework offered at Penn State in the SUMMER.English and communication teaching option at university park and commonwealth campuses
English Teaching Option: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H*#† | 3 | PSYCH 100*#† | 3 |
| Literature Selection*†1 | 3 | Non-Print Selection*3 | 3 |
| EDPSY 14*# | 3 | Science Selection†2 | 3 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 |
| Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 | American or British Literature Selection*4 | 3 |
| Science Selection (GN)/Interdomain†2 | 3 | ||
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CI 295*# | 2 | CAS 100A (Speech and Oral Performance Selection)*# | 3 |
| Art Selection (GA)*5 | 3 | PSYCH 412 or HDFS 239* | 3 |
| Science Selection (GN)†2 | 3 | Interdomain General Education (GA, GH, GS, GHW) | 3 |
| CI 280*† | 3 | Grammar Selection*7 | 1-3 |
| American or British Literature Selection*4 | 3 | EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP)* | 3 |
| Writing Selection*6 | 3 | Health and Wellness (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 17 | 14.5-16.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| LLED 411* | 3 | LLED 421* | 3 |
| CI 492* | 3 | LLED 422* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B*† | 3 | Multicultural Literature Selection*9 | 3 |
| Shakespeare Selection*8 | 3 | SPLED 400* | 4 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Health and Physical Activity† | 1.5 | ||
| 16.5 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| LLED 420* | 3 | CI 495E*10 | 15 |
| LLED 412W* | 3 | ||
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| SPLED 403B* | 3 | ||
| Elective | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 125-127 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
Science Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 3
AFAM 235/ENGL 235, CMLIT 415, COMM 150N, COMM 250, COMM 411, ENGL 136, THEA 100, THEA 105.
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
CMLIT 403/LTNST 403, ENGL 135/AMST 135, ENGL 139/AFAM 139, ENGL 194/WMNST 194, ENGL 428/AAS 428, ENGL 431/AMST 475, ENGL 462/WMNST 462, ENGL 466/AFAM 466, ENGL 467/AFAM 467, ENGL 468/AFAM 468, ENGL 490/AFAM 490, ENGL 492/AMST 476/WMNST 491.
- 10
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Mathematics Teaching Option - Fall Semester Student Teaching: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H*# | 3 | MATH 141*#† | 4 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | MATH 220*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140*#† | 4 | Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 |
| CMPSC 101 or 121*#† | 3 | Science Selection | 3 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | CAS 100A* | 3 |
| Arts Selection | 3 | Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 |
| 17 | 17.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 230 or 231*# | 4 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412*† | 3 |
| MATH 311W* | 3 | MATH 310* | 3 |
| Science Selection | 3 | MATH 312* | 3 |
| EDPSY 14*# | 3 | Science Selection | 3 |
| CI 280*† | 3 | CI 295*# | 2 |
| Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 | EDTHP 115 (or EDTHP 400 Level Selection)* | 3 |
| 17.5 | 17 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MTHED 411* | 3 | MTHED 412W* | 3 |
| MTHED 427* | 3 | CI 495C* | 3 |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| MATH 435 or 470* | 3 | MATH 471* | 4 |
| MATH 414* | 3 | MATH 436* | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CI 495E*2 | 15 | MATH 400 Level Selection or MTHED 400 Level Selection* | 3 |
| MATH 400 Level Selection or MTHED 400 Level Selection* | 3 | ||
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | ||
| Arts Selection | 3 | ||
| STAT 401 or MATH 415* | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 131 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Mathematics Teaching Option - Spring Semester Student Teaching: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H*# | 3 | MATH 141*#† | 4 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | MATH 220*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140*#† | 4 | Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 |
| CMPSC 101 or 121*#† | 3 | Science Selection | 3 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | CAS 100A* | 3 |
| Arts Selection | 3 | Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 |
| 17 | 17.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 230 or 231*# | 4 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412* | 3 |
| MATH 311W* | 3 | MATH 310* | 3 |
| Science Selection | 3 | MATH 312* | 3 |
| EDPSY 14*# | 3 | Science Selection | 3 |
| CI 280*† | 3 | CI 295*# | 2 |
| Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 | EDTHP 115 (or EDTHP 400 Level Selection)* | 3 |
| 17.5 | 17 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Arts Selection | 3 | SPLED 400* | 4 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | MTHED 411* | 3 |
| MATH 414* | 3 | MTHED 427* | 3 |
| MATH 435 or 470* | 3 | MATH 471* | 4 |
| MATH 436 or 441* | 3 | MATH 400 Level Selection or MTHED 400 Level Selection* | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MTHED 412W* | 3 | CI 495E*2 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| SPLED 403B* | 3 | ||
| STAT 401 or MATH 415 (or MTHED List)* | 3 | ||
| MATH 400 Level Selection or MTHED 400 Level Selection* | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 131 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Physics Teaching Option: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15*# | 3 | CHEM 110*#† | 3 |
| MATH 140*#† | 4 | CHEM 111*#† | 1 |
| PHYS 211*#† | 4 | MATH 141*#† | 4 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | PHYS 212*† | 4 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | EDPSY 14*# | 3 |
| EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP) | 3 | ||
| 18 | 15 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 220*† | 2-3 | Health and Wellness* | 1.5 |
| BIOL 110*#† | 4 | CI 295*# | 2 |
| Literature Selection*#†1 | 3 | MATH 250 or 251* | 3-4 |
| CI 280*† | 3 | PHYS 237* | 3-4 |
| PHYS 213 or 214*† | 2 | CHEM 112*#† | 3 |
| CHEM 113*#† | 1 | ||
| 14-15 | 13.5-15.5 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | CAS 100A*† | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B*† | 3 | SCIED 411W* | 3 |
| MATH 230 or 231* | 3-4 | Arts Selection | 3 |
| PHYS 400* | 3 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412*† | 3 | PHYS 419* | 3 |
| 16-17 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SCIED 412* | 3 | CI 495E*2 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| PHYS 402, PHYS 457, or PHYS 458* | 2-4 | ||
| Health and Wellness* | 1.5 | ||
| GS, GH, GA, GHW, or Interdomain* | 3 | ||
| 12.5-14.5 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 119-125 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 2
No Additional coursework permitted during Student Teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Social Studies Option - Fall Semester Student Teaching: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| ENGL 15 or 30H*# | 3 | GEOG 30N*# | 3 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP)* | 3 |
| HIST 20*#† | 3 | HIST 21*#† | 3 |
| PSYCH 100*#† | 3 | PLSC 1*# | 3 |
| Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 | Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 |
| Science Selection*† | 3 | Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 |
| 16 | 18 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| EDPSY 14*# | 3 | HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412* | 3 |
| ECON 104*#† | 3 | CI 280*† | 3 |
| HIST 1 or 10*† | 3 | HIST 2 or 11*† | 3 |
| CI 295*# | 2 | Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 |
| Literature Selection*#†2 | 3 | Concentration Selection*3 | 3 |
| Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 | Concentration Selection*3 | 3 |
| 17 | 18 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SSED 411* | 3 | SSED 412W* | 3 |
| SPLED 400* | 4 | CI 495C* | 3 |
| HIST 400-level Selection* | 3 | SPLED 403B* | 3 |
| Concentration Selection*3 | 3 | HIST 400-level Selection* | 3 |
| Concentration Selection*3 | 3 | Concentration Selection*3 | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CI 495E*4 | 15 | CAS 100A* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | ||
| Health and Wellness Selection | 3 | ||
| Science Selection | 3 | ||
| Art Selection | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 130 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Choose ANTH 45N or GEOG 6N and ECON 102, PLSC 3, PLSC 14 or SOC 1
- 2
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 3
Civics & Government (PLSC), Classics & Ancient Studies (CAMS), Economics (ECON), Geography (GEOG), Holocaust & Genocide Studies (JST, HIST) or Social Sciences (ANTH, PSYCH, SOC)
- 4
No additional coursework permitted during student teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Social Studies Option - Spring Student Teaching: Secondary Education, B.S. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| GEOG 30N*# | 3 | ENGL 15 or 30H*# | 3 |
| EDUC 100 | 1 | HIST 20*#† | 3 |
| PLSC 1*# | 3 | PSYCH 100*#† | 3 |
| Arts Selection | 3 | Science Selection† | 3 |
| Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 | Mathematics Selection*#† | 3 |
| Science Selection*† | 3 | Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 |
| 16 | 16.5 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CI 280*† | 3 | CI 295*# | 2 |
| EDTHP 115 (or 400-level EDTHP)*† | 3 | EDPSY 14*# | 3 |
| HIST 21*#† | 3 | ECON 104*#† | 3 |
| Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 | HIST 1 or 10*† | 3 |
| Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 | Additional Course Selection*1 | 3 |
| Health and Physical Activity | 1.5 | Literature Selection*#†2 | |
| 16.5 | 14 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CAS 100A* | 3 | SSED 411* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A or 202B* | 3 | SPLED 400* | 4 |
| HDFS 239 or PSYCH 412*† | 3 | HIST 400-level Selection* | 3 |
| HIST 2 or 11*† | 3 | Concentration Selection*3 | 3 |
| Concentration Selection* | 3 | Concentration Selection*3 | 3 |
| Concentration Selection* | 3 | ||
| 18 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| SSED 412W* | 3 | CI 495E*4 | 15 |
| CI 495C* | 3 | ||
| SPLED 403B* | 3 | ||
| Concentration Selection*3 | 3 | ||
| HIST 400-level selection*3 | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 127 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Choose ANTH 45N or GEOG 6N and ECON 102, PLSC 3, PLSC 14 or SOC 1.
- 2
Literature Selection list of acceptable courses available here.
- 3
Civics & Government (PL SC), Classics & Ancient Studies (CAMS), Economics (ECON), Geography (GEOG), Holocaust & Genocide Studies (JST, HIST) or Social Sciences (ANTH, PSYCH, SOC).
- 4
No additional coursework permitted during student teaching.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Career Paths
Our graduates teach in public and private schools in Pennsylvania, elsewhere in the U.S., and around the world. Education is a profession, and all teachers are expected to continue studying and developing new skills throughout their careers. In most U.S. states, teacher certification is a multi-stage process, with graduate study beyond a bachelor’s degree expected early in a teacher’s career. Graduates of this program who work in public schools usually go on to earn a master’s degree. Alumni who wish to continue educational studies at the graduate level through Penn State can do so at University Park and through the University’s World Campus.
Careers
In addition to resources like the College’s Advising and Certification Center and Penn State Career Services, the University hosts large education career fairs in both the fall and spring semesters, which bring recruiters to campus from throughout Pennsylvania and the United States.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE SECONDARY EDUCATION PROGRAM
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES
Professional Resources
- Pennsylvania State Education Association
- Occupational Outlook for High School Teachers (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)
- National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
- National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)
- National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)
Accreditation
The College of Education educator preparation programs are fully accredited at the Initial and Advanced levels by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The next CAEP program review will be Fall 2026. CAEP advances excellence in educator preparation through evidence-based accreditation that assures quality and supports continuous improvement to strengthen P-12 student learning.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ACCREDITATION OF THE SECONDARY EDUCATION PROGRAM
Professional Licensure/Certification
Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.
Contact
University Park
DEPARTMENT OF CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
141 Chambers Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-1500
rmz101@psu.edu
https://ed.psu.edu/academics/departments/department-curriculum-and-instruction
Erie
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
1 Prischak
4205 College Drive
Erie, PA 16563
814-898-6105
behrend-science@psu.edu