Physical Science and Physics Education (K-12)

Program Overview

The 5-year program with teacher certification in physical science and or physics education (K-12) is designed to help students deepen their understanding of the core principles surrounding physics and chemistry while developing content-specific teaching methods appropriate for the disciplines. Successful completion of the program will lead to a bachelor's degree, master's degree in science education, and initial teacher certification in physical science and or physics education. Research-driven coursework will provide students with a grounding in the historical and philosophical contexts of the physical sciences as well as with the practical knowledge and skills needed to develop effective student learning environments and to integrate technology into their instruction. As with all teacher preparation programs at the GSE, teacher candidates will exit this program as culturally responsive practitioners, trained to teach and advocate for diverse learners by fostering a deep understanding of students from historically underserved linguistic, economic, and cultural backgrounds and communities.

To complete the program in 5 years, undergraduate students must complete specific pre-admission coursework and field placements during their sophomore and junior years. Students then apply for the 5-year program before the Spring semester of their junior year and if admitted, enter the professional education sequence in the summer before senior year. After senior year, students qualify to have their bachelor's degree awarded by the undergraduate liberal arts college and continue with the professional sequence in the summer after graduation. Students will return in the fall to complete a full-time student-teaching internship and continue with full-time graduate study, including a field-based research project in the spring.

After the master's degree is awarded, the GSE will make a recommendation to the New Jersey State Department of Education on behalf of the graduate to receive their Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) as a teacher.