In the science education program at Gettysburg College, students have the opportunity to earn a 7-12 Pennsylvania teaching certificate in biology, chemistry, or physics. Interested students should complete the corresponding major to their field of certification and fulfill all requirement for a B.A. in the field. They also complete the six required Education Department courses as well as additional Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements and spend a full semester student teaching in a local middle school or high school science classroom.

Through this program, students will gain competence in all five core principles outlined in the Education Department Curriculum & Portfolio Guide. Specifically in the field of science, they will learn to thoughtfully instruct students using an inquiry model, practice the 5E lesson planning format in local classrooms, and apply both formative and summative assessment to evaluate student understanding. They will become familiar with the state and national standards for science and common areas of misconception in each field. Teacher candidates will also gain competence in interdisciplinary instruction, lab and field work, and supporting students with special needs.

Please feel free to contact Dr. Carol Rinke with any further questions about the Gettysburg College science education program.

Biology 7 - 12

Chemistry 7 - 12

Physics 7 - 12