Chemistry Secondary Certification, BS
The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Secondary Certification program prepares you to teach chemistry or physical science in grades 7-12 in Pennsylvania as well as in more than 40 other states with reciprocal agreements. Shippensburg University is a great place to study to become a chemistry teacher because its secondary education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation and the National Science Teachers Association. It also has the only public elementary lab school in the state.
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What Will I Learn?
In this program, you will complete the requirements for the chemistry major while taking education courses required for certification.
Our curriculum is approved by the American Chemical Society and involves core and laboratory courses in general, inorganic, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry, as well as the allied fields of physics and mathematics. Core courses in education address the history of education in the United States, special education and accommodations, reading strategies, education law, and science-specific pedagogy for secondary (grades 7-12) classrooms.
What are the requirements for this degree?
Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program and be formally admitted into the teacher education program after their sophomore year.
What Types of Careers Could I Get With This Degree?
High school chemistry teachers and middle school physical science teachers are always in high demand. Students who successfully complete this program should expect job placement.
What Career Outcomes Do Alumni Have With This Degree?
What Kinds of Experiences Could I Have?
As you prepare to become a teacher, you will participate in hands-on learning experiences such as:
- Observation of classes in middle schools and high schools
- Observations of physically challenged and exceptional learners
- Student teaching placements
As you complete the requirements for the chemistry major, you have access to:
- Your professors, with the ability to form close relationships thanks to small class sizes
- Research opportunities
- A wide variety of chemical instrumentation
You may also join the Chemistry Club to boost your resume, network and create lifelong relationships. The club often travels to local schools to help students and raise their interest in chemistry. Additionally, there are opportunities to assist with the university's youth chemistry camp to obtain more experience working with children.