The relevance of the BA program to education

Many studies have shown that our nation is in great need of teachers who are well-versed in the sciences. There is a particular need for science teachers at the middle school and high school level. Our society needs scientifically literate high school graduates who can fill a wide variety of technology-related jobs and who can fulfill responsible roles as voters and citizens. Physics has a vital role to play, both providing general science literacy and in providing knowledge needed for technology-related jobs.

The Department of Physics, in cooperation with the College of Education, has designed two physics curricula for pre-education students that fulfill the requirements for the BA physics degree while also fulfilling the pre-education requirements specified by the College of Education for entry into the Master of Arts in Teaching program. In addition, the suggested curricula leave approximately 8-15 credit-hours free for electives that may be chosen in a second scientific field such as chemistry, biology, or geology. Thus, upon obtaining teacher certification, the BA physics graduate will be well qualified to teach physics, physical science, and at least one other science or math.