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B.S. in Secondary Education (7-12) - General Science
York, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The B.S. in Secondary Education (7-12) with a General Science concentration at York College provides a comprehensive and dual-faceted preparation, combining rigorous scientific training across multiple disciplines with extensive pedagogical coursework and practical teaching experiences. This program is designed to equip future educators with a broad understanding of scientific principles (biology, chemistry, physics, earth science), effective instructional strategies, and classroom management techniques suitable for diverse learning environments in grades 7 through 12. Graduates are prepared not only to impart scientific knowledge but also to foster critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a lifelong appreciation for science in their students, making them highly effective and certified educators in Pennsylvania.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully structured to meet both the content requirements for a general science major and the professional pedagogical requirements for secondary education certification in Pennsylvania. Core science courses span various disciplines, including General Biology, General Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, and often specialized courses in environmental science or geology, ensuring a strong and broad foundation in the scientific fields. Concurrently, professional education courses delve into areas such as educational psychology, adolescent development, instructional design, classroom management, assessment, and methods for teaching science in secondary schools. A significant emphasis is placed on integrating technology into the classroom and developing inclusive teaching strategies to cater to diverse student needs. The program culminates in extensive field experiences, including a full semester of student teaching, providing immersive practical application.
Research Focus: While the Secondary Education program is primarily focused on professional preparation for teaching, it inherently integrates a research-informed approach. Students are trained to understand and apply current educational research in areas such as effective teaching methodologies, adolescent learning, and science education best practices. Within their science coursework, students often engage in scientific inquiry and lab-based research projects, which not only deepens their content knowledge but also models the process of scientific investigation that they will later teach. Faculty mentors, many with backgrounds in both science and education, guide students in critically analyzing educational theories and evidence-based instructional strategies, ensuring future educators are equipped to make data-driven decisions in their classrooms.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is paramount in the Secondary Education program and primarily takes the form of extensive and structured field experiences within local middle and high schools. York College maintains robust partnerships with school districts, providing students with numerous opportunities for real-world classroom exposure from early in their program. These experiences progress from initial observations to co-teaching roles and culminate in a full semester of supervised student teaching. This direct engagement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop practical teaching skills, manage classrooms, and build professional networks with experienced educators and administrators. This hands-on training is vital for meeting certification requirements and preparing graduates for immediate and successful entry into the teaching profession.
Global Perspective: York College of Pennsylvania offers various study abroad opportunities that can significantly broaden an education major's global perspective. While not always directly tied to teaching methodologies abroad, these programs expose students to different cultures, societal norms, and potentially alternative educational systems. Experiencing diverse learning environments can enhance a future educator's cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and ability to connect with students from varied backgrounds in an increasingly multicultural classroom. By fostering cross-cultural communication skills and a global mindset, these experiences prepare educators to create more inclusive and engaging learning environments and help students understand the global relevance of scientific concepts. Programs often include options for short-term faculty-led trips or semester-long immersions in various countries.
Location
York, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 26920
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
York College of Pennsylvania offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in achieving their academic goals while easing financial burdens. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and other special talents among international applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to York College are considered for merit-based scholarships automatically during the admissions process. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. High-achieving students can receive significant tuition discounts, which help make studying in the U.S. more affordable.
International Student Scholarships: York College provides dedicated scholarships for international students, which may include renewable awards throughout the duration of their degree program. These scholarships acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and contributions international students bring to the campus community.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments at York College offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional performance or promise in their chosen field of study. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities by contacting their academic departments directly.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Secondary Education (7-12) with a General Science concentration from York College of Pennsylvania equips graduates with dual expertise: a broad understanding of scientific disciplines and the pedagogical skills necessary to effectively teach middle and high school students. This combination makes graduates highly sought after in educational settings and provides pathways to related fields.
Secondary School Science Teacher (Grades 7-12): This is the most direct career path. Graduates are certified to teach various science subjects, including biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/space science, in public or private middle and high schools. They develop curricula, deliver engaging lessons, and foster scientific literacy in young people.
Science Department Head/Lead Teacher: With experience, a secondary science teacher can advance to a leadership role within a school's science department. This involves curriculum coordination, mentoring junior teachers, managing resources, and contributing to school-wide educational policy.
Instructional Coach (Science): Graduates can work within a school district to support other science teachers. They might provide professional development, observe classrooms, offer feedback on teaching strategies, and help implement new science curricula or technologies.
Curriculum Developer (Science Education): With a deep understanding of both scientific content and pedagogical best practices, graduates can work for educational publishers, non-profit organizations, or school districts to design and write science textbooks, online learning modules, and other educational materials.
Science Museum Educator: Beyond the traditional classroom, graduates can engage the public in science learning at museums, science centers, or nature centers. They design and deliver interactive exhibits, workshops, and educational programs for diverse audiences of all ages.
Educational Technology Specialist (Science Focus): As technology plays an increasing role in education, graduates can specialize in integrating science-specific educational software, virtual labs, and digital tools into the curriculum, supporting both teachers and students.
Academic Tutor/Test Prep Instructor (Science): Graduates can offer private tutoring services or work for test preparation companies, helping middle and high school students improve their understanding of scientific concepts and prepare for standardized science exams.
Youth Program Coordinator (STEM Focus): Many non-profit organizations and community centers run after-school or summer programs with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) focus. Graduates can develop and lead these hands-on science activities, inspiring young learners.
Research Assistant (Education or Science-related): While not their primary focus, the B.S. in Secondary Education General Science provides a strong foundation in scientific principles and research methods. Graduates could work as research assistants in educational research, or in entry-level roles in general science labs (e.g., environmental science, public health labs).
Science Communication Specialist (Entry-Level): Graduates who can effectively explain complex scientific concepts can find roles in science communication, working for universities, government agencies, or media outlets to make science accessible and engaging for the public.
