Comprehensive Science Education

The role of science in today's world continues to expand exponentially, becoming ever more important to our daily lives as well as our future and the future of our world. In order for teachers or others to be conversant in the broad area known as science, they must take courses distributed among many different disciplines at North Dakota State University.

The Program

This degree prepares secondary school science teachers for the challenges of teaching a variety of science classes in junior and senior high schools. Today schools are becoming increasingly pressed for resources. School administrators are looking for teachers who are adequately prepared to teach several different subjects. The comprehensive science education degree is designed to meet this need. The career prospects for individuals who successfully complete this degree are very good.

The degree is comprised of 21 credits in the biological sciences, 34 credits in the physical sciences, eight credits in the geological sciences, eight credits of university-level calculus, and two credits of computer science. Also, the degree requires 32 credits of professional education courses and additional courses to meet the general education requirements of the University. A conscientious, hard-working student can complete the degree in four years (see sample curriculum). It is advised that students who intend to teach in Minnesota meet with the science education adviser early to discuss additional requirements for teacher certification in that state.

Early Experience

After or during an introductory course, students will have an opportunity to complete a brief exploratory experience in a secondary science program. Students will observe and possibly assist a science professional. This experience helps students relate course work to actual teaching situations.

Student Teaching

Student teaching is the culmination of the teaching program. Students have the opportunity to apply skills acquired in college courses under the supervision of an experienced science educator.

Student Advisement

Students will be assigned individual advisers who will work closely in program planning and in other ways to advise and assist them. Students are encouraged to seek their advisers' help whenever needed.

Certification

Upon completing this program, students are eligible for certification to teach sciences in most states. The program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

Sample Curriculum

This sample curriculum is not intended to serve as a curriculum guide for current students, but rather an example of course offerings for prospective students. For the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of entrance into a program, consult with an academic adviser or with the Office of Registration and Records.

Contact Information

Director of Student Services and Advancement
College of Human Development and Education
North Dakota State University
Evelyn Morrow Lebedeff Hall 269
Fargo, ND 58105

Tel: (701) 231-7071
Fax: (701) 231-7174
Email: Nancy.Gress@ndsu.edu
Web: www.ndsu.edu/hde

or

Department of Biological Sciences
North Dakota State University
Stevens Hall 218
Fargo, ND 58105

Tel: (701) 231-7087
Fax: (701) 231-7149
Email: Lisa.Montplaisir@ndsu.edu
Web: http://www.ndsu.edu/scimath/

Office of Admission

North Dakota State University
124 Ceres Hall
Fargo, ND 58105

Tel: (701) 231-8643
Fax: (701) 231-8802
Email: NDSU.Admission@ndsu.edu
Web: http://www.ndsu.edu/prospective/students/

(12/08)