Secondary Education, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science, Secondary Education degree is grounded in rigorous academic preparation in methods of curriculum and instruction and the preparation of teachers who support the learning of all students. The curriculum is guided by the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and seek to prepare the next generation of teachers to enact these values in their classrooms, schools, and communities. Students pursuing this major will be required to declare a second content major by their sophomore year.

 

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the physical, emotional, psychosocial and cognitive aspects of development
• Understand and apply learning theories as they relate to a holistic curriculum 
• Evaluate learning and behavior of students
• Identify classroom organization and management techniques to enhance learning
• Understand historical, social, cultural and political forces influencing public education and the role of a teacher in the resulting issues
• Accrue and use in-depth knowledge of professional literature
• Become a lifelong independent learner and reflective practitioner
• Demonstrate responsibility, initiative and sensitivity in working with all children and adolescents in education-related settings
• Teach all children and adolescents effectively in a constructivist and collaborative manner using best practice

 

Admission Requirements

 These must be completed by April 1 of sophomore year

• Sophomore standing
• Sealed official transcript(s) of all undergraduate work
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.67
• Evidence of completion of the Praxis Academic Skills Assessments, or SAT or ACT scores
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the candidate’s suitability as a prospective teacher. Recommendations must be obtained from individuals who are not family members, personal friends, or members of the USJ School of Education
• An essay that describes reasons for wanting to enroll in the program and emphasizes experiences relevant to teaching
• A successful interview with a faculty team from the Department of Education
• A planned program of course requirements completed with an assigned Education/Special Education faculty advisor and signed by the licensure officer

 

Progression Requirements

Throughout the teacher licensure sequence, the Department of Education reserves the right to recommend withdrawal of any candidate demonstrating insufficient progress toward professional experiences and interpersonal relationships. Evidence of satisfactory progress may be shown in the following knowledge, skills and dispositions as described in the school’s Conceptual Framework and Statement of Candidate Dispositions:

• Critical thinking skills (e.g., the ability to analyze information)
• Capacity to form interpersonal relationships with colleagues and individuals that are characterized by sensitivity, mutual respect, constructive collaboration and advocacy.
• Responsibility as demonstrated in the timely completion of assignments, commitment to quality performance and professional growth.
• Commitment to the mission and philosophy of the department
• Achievement of grades of C+ or better
• Continued minimum cumulative GPA of 2.67
• Successful completion of the Tier II clinical experience

 

Exit Requirements

In addition to all required coursework and field experiences, students must complete a course embedded capstone with their final education course (EDUC 449 - Student Teaching Seminar ).